Australian nursing leader Prof. Patricia M. Davidson, PhD, RN, FAAN, will be honoured with the American Academy of Nursing’s highest individual achievement award during the organisation’s Health Policy Conference in Washington, DC, from October 16-18, 2025.
The President’s Award recognises Fellows who have made extraordinary, lifelong contributions to improving the health of individuals, families, and communities.
Prof. Davidson, Vice Chancellor’s Fellow and interim Co-Director of the International Centre for Future Health Systems at UNSW Sydney, has spent four decades advancing person-centred care for people with chronic and complex conditions, with a special focus on social determinants of health.
She has held major academic leadership roles, including Vice Chancellor and President of the University of Wollongong and Dean at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing.
Prof. Davidson is also celebrated for her mentorship, having been the first nurse to receive the Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Outstanding Mentor of Young Researchers.
“The Academy is elated to honour these individuals for their lasting contributions to the health of the nation and around the globe,”
said Academy President Linda D. Scott.
“It is inspiring to reflect on the change these leaders have forged in public health and health equity. Their courage, innovation, and curiosity provide insight into evidence-informed health policy and the best care practices.”
Prof. Davidson also serves in numerous leadership roles internationally, including Secretary General of the World Health Organisation’s Collaborating Centres for Nursing and Midwifery, and Counsellor General of the International Council on Women’s Health Issues. She emphasises diversity, equity, inclusion, and workforce development, and is actively involved in doctoral education and mentoring new investigators.
Earlier, under her leadership, the University of Wollongong welcomed a growing number of students from India each year and plans to establish a new campus in Gujarat, further strengthening educational ties between Australia and India.
The American Academy of Nursing, with over 3,200 Fellows globally, recognises nursing leaders who shape health policy, research, practice, and education, highlighting the transformative impact of nursing on health worldwide.
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