On June 11, 2025, the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) marked a significant occasion by unveiling the 2025 class of fellows for the Academy of Emergency Nursing. This prestigious recognition honors five remarkable nurses whose tireless work has made a substantial impact in the field of emergency nursing.
The newly inducted fellows include Anna Mae Ericksen, RN (posthumous) of Washington; Linda Laskowski Jones, MS, APRN, CEN, ACNS-BC, NEA-BC, NREMT, FAAN, of Delaware; Dawn Peta, BN, RN, from Canada; Jamla Rizek, MSN, MBA, RN, CEN, CPEN, NHDP-BC, NRP, from Maryland; and Tania D. Strout, PhD, MS, RN, from Maine. Each of these individuals is recognized for their sustained contributions that transcend their direct practice locations.
According to Deena Brecher, Chair of the Academy of Emergency Nursing Board, these individuals are celebrated not just for their nursing skills, but for the broader impact they have had on emergency care practices and policies worldwide. "Their work is a testament to their commitment to excellence in emergency nursing through innovation, research, and advocacy for patients and communities," Brecher stated.
The recognition also highlights the importance of emergency nurses in improving healthcare practices. ENA President Ryan Oglesby emphasized the significant contributions these fellows have made in several areas, such as establishing global triage standards, developing innovative tools for pain and mental health assessments, and advocating for legislative changes that enhance rural healthcare delivery. The impact of their work is felt on both local and global scales, showcasing the meaning of leadership within the nursing profession.
Since its establishment in 2004, the Academy of Emergency Nursing has inducted over 200 members, guided by a mission to elevate the field of emergency nursing through a commitment to the highest standards of care. The Academy recognizes individuals who go above and beyond the call of duty as exemplary nurses and dedicated members of the ENA.
This year’s induction ceremony will take place during Emergency Nursing 2025 in New Orleans this September, where the new fellows will be formally celebrated for their achievements. The ENA continues to advocate for patient safety and develop industry-leading standards and guidelines to improve health outcomes in emergency scenarios.
Established in 1970, the ENA remains a vital resource for the global emergency nursing community, comprising nearly 45,000 members dedicated to advocacy, research, and leadership in the field. As these five nurses join the ranks of esteemed emergency nursing fellows, their stories will undoubtedly inspire future generations of nurses to pursue excellence in emergency care.
For more information about ENA and the Academy of Emergency Nursing, visit
www.ena.org.