Certified Nurses Day is an annual celebration of the dedicated nurses who have earned certification, which shows patients, families, employers and the public that their knowledge reflects national standards and a deep commitment to patient safety. These professionals go the extra mile, having passed a rigorous exam as they continue their learning journey throughout their careers. Certified nurses are champions of excellence, and it’s time to cheer them on!

Together, we recognize the unwavering commitment and expertise that certified nurses bring to patients, their families and healthcare.

Creative Ways to Celebrate Certified Nurses

Make the most of Certified Nurses Day with meaningful ways to express your gratitude, from printable downloads to recognition products available in the AACN store. Create an email or intranet post and take inspiration from our sample social media messages. Make your certified nursing colleagues feel appreciated by organizing a team event or virtual gathering. However you mark the occasion, strengthen the sense of camaraderie among your peers and emphasize the value of certification.

Be Inspired by Certified Nurses Day Celebrations

See how teams across the country salute certified nurses, and share your own celebration online using the hashtag #CND2025.

Certified Nurses Day 2025 Information for Ambassadors and Chapters

Help champion the importance of certification on Certified Nurses Day and beyond. Use these tips to foster understanding of certified nursing professionals’ crucial role in healthcare.

Learn More About Certification

As healthcare becomes increasingly complex, the value of certification as a mark of excellence is more important than ever. Achieving certification shows patients, families, employers - and you - that you’re committed to the highest standard of care.

Board Certification
Achieving board certification demonstrates a deep commitment to patient care.
Value of Certification
Certification benefits patients, families, employers and nurses.
Preparation Tools & Handbooks
Prepare for certification exams with a rich array of detailed handbooks and study materials.
Certification Review Resources
AACN’s online store offers books, study cards, online practice exams and other guides to help you prepare for certification.

Certification Stories

Learn directly from certified nurses about the impact certification can make in a nurse’s career.

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How Certification Reignited My Passion for Nursing
Collyn West explains how certification “tied it all together” for her and the nurses she mentors.
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Why We Celebrate Certified Nurses
Lindsey Green explores the history of Certified Nurses Day and highlights its importance.
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Inspiring Nurses to Achieve Certification
Several certified nurses discuss their motivations for getting certified and offer advice for those seeking certification.
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Value of Certification
Roberta Kaplow answers several questions about certification, including “what’s in it for me?”
Why Would I Need More Than One Nursing Certification?
Three nurses tell their stories of earning multiple certifications as their roles and careers changed.