WILMINGTON, DE — Two ChristianaCare nurses have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to the nursing profession by being inducted as 2024 Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing (AAN). Michelle Collins and Danielle A. Sarik join an esteemed group of nurse leaders honored for shaping the future of healthcare on a global scale.
The induction ceremony, held on November 2, welcomed Collins and Sarik alongside their peers from across the United States and 14 other countries. This fellowship is regarded as the highest distinction in nursing, highlighting the significant and sustained impact these individuals have made on healthcare and patient outcomes.
“Induction into the Academy represents the highest honor in nursing,” said Danielle Weber, ChristianaCare’s Chief Nurse Executive. “This recognition highlights Michelle and Danielle’s exceptional leadership, commitment to innovation, and passion for enhancing patient care.”
Collins, vice president of Nursing Professional Excellence at ChristianaCare, has played a pivotal role in advancing nursing practices throughout her three-decade career. She is a leader in virtual acute care nursing, having established ChristianaCare’s Virtual Acute Care Network. This groundbreaking initiative improves care delivery and addresses workforce challenges. Under her leadership, ChristianaCare attained its third Magnet® designation, a milestone recognizing nursing excellence.
Collins also secured a $1.5 million grant to advance nursing technology integration, further cementing her legacy in health care innovation. Reflecting on her induction, she said, “I am both grateful and honored to accept this induction into the AAN as an early pioneer and national leader in virtual acute care nursing.”
Sarik, a nurse scientist consultant at ChristianaCare, was recognized for her contributions to research and advocacy in addressing health disparities. Her projects include developing and implementing the Baby Steps model, an AAN Edge Runner designee aimed at improving equity in neonatal care. Baby Steps helps families transition smoothly after leaving the neonatal intensive care unit, addressing critical gaps in care for vulnerable populations.
“Being recognized as a Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing is truly an honor and a privilege,” said Sarik. “I look forward to continuing to lead research and advocacy efforts to address health disparities and strive for equitable health care systems for all children and families.”
Both Collins and Sarik join a select group of over 3,000 Academy Fellows since the program’s inception in 1973. This prestigious acknowledgment allows inductees to use the FAAN credential, a widely respected symbol of excellence in nursing.
Their achievements reflect ChristianaCare’s mission to advance nursing excellence, inspire innovation, and improve care delivery on both local and global levels.
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