OADN Honor Society celebrates first induction ceremony
May 14, 2025Yuma, Ariz. (May 14, 2025) – On May 7, the Alpha Delta Nu-Iota Theta (IT) Chapter of the Organization of Associate Degree Nurses (OADN) Honor Society at Arizona Western College held its inaugural induction ceremony. At the ceremony, 28 fourth-semester student nurses were confirmed as the first official members of the chapter.
"I am incredibly proud to celebrate the induction of our outstanding students into the Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society,” said Director of Nursing Stephanie Francis. “This induction ceremony recognizes our students' academic excellence in Associate Degree Nursing and serves as a reminder of the importance of lifelong learning in the nursing profession. I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Daniel Corr, Reetika Dhawan, and Cinthia Reyes for their visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the growth of the nursing program. This achievement is a direct reflection of their support, dedication, and focus on excellence in education, workforce development, and healthcare leadership.”
Since becoming an official chapter of the honor society last August, the chapter has grown to over 60 students under faculty advisors Amber Ortega and Dr. Tracy MacDonald, who are both Nursing professors at AWC.
"This milestone not only honored the academic excellence and dedication of our associate degree nursing students but also celebrated their commitment to lifelong learning and compassionate, person-centered care through serving and meeting the needs of our community,” Ortega reflected. “I hope this achievement inspires them to continue pursuing their passion to serve, to seek opportunities that advance the health of our community through their evolving roles, and to become mentors and role models for those who follow in their footsteps.”
To be eligible for the honor society, students must maintain a B in all nursing program courses and complete a community service project of their choice. The students have given back to the community as part of their involvement in the honor society, meeting with veterans and the elderly, and volunteering with Amberly’s Place and OCJ Kids.
“As an OADN mentor, I was honored to witness the induction of these students into our inaugural class,” Dr. MacDonald said. “Their leadership in nursing and commitment to improving our community have set a standard of excellence. Each inductee has demonstrated not only exceptional clinical expertise but also a dedication to advocacy and education. Their contributions will have a lasting impact, and it was a privilege to recognize them for the extraordinary efforts they have made.”
Donna Meyer, MSN, RN, ANEF, FAADN, FAAN, inaugural Chief Executive Officer for the OADN and president of the OADN Honor Society, traveled from San Diego, CA to attend the event.
###
About the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing:
As the national advocate for the over 1,100 associate degree nursing programs across the country, the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN) works to advance excellence in nursing education and associate degree pathways into registered nursing careers. The organization aims to expand networks that promote leadership, collaboration, and advocacy to further enrich nursing education.
About the Alpha Delta Nu:
The Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society is the only honor society in the nation for Associate Degree Nursing students. Its mission is to recognize the academic excellence of students in the study of Associate Degree Nursing. The society encourages the pursuit of advance degrees in the profession of nursing as well as continuing education as a life-long professional responsibility.
Contact:
Stephanie Francis, MSN, RN, CNE
Director of Nursing
Arizona Western College
stephanie.francis@azwestern.edu
(928) 317-6038