Nursing Group names TWU alumna ‘Living Legend’

Aug. 5, 2019 — DENTON — A Texas Woman’s University Distinguished Alumna recognized nationally and internationally for her work advancing nursing education will be honored as a “Living Legend” this fall by the American Academy of Nursing. 

Geraldine “Polly” Bednash, PhD, RN, FAAN, who graduated from TWU in 1965 with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and was named a Distinguished Alumna in 1997, will be one of five nursing leaders from across the country who will be named Living Legends at the Academy’s annual conference on Oct. 24 in Washington, D.C. The award is the Academy’s highest honor.

Bednash is known as a visionary advocate for advancing the education of the nursing workforce, quality and safety in health care, and diversity within the health professions.

“The leaders selected in this year’s class of Living Legends are highly acclaimed, long-time Fellows whose accomplishments in health and wellness are profound and sustained,” said Academy President Karen Cox, PhD, RN, FACHE, FAAN.

Bednash served as CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) from 1989 to 2015. Prior to that, Bednash served as the AACN’s director of government affairs, overseeing the association’s legislative and advocacy efforts. She currently serves as a visiting professor at the Australian Catholic University.