Wendy Tuzik Micek Honored with 2026 Debbie Dawson Hatmaker Leadership Award
American Nurses Enterprise recognizes President of Nursing Staff of Advocate Children’s Hospital, Advocate Health
CHICAGO, IL – October 29, 2026 – The American Nurses Enterprise (ANE) announced today that Wendy Tuzik Micek, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, director, Nursing Excellence and Innovation, Administration, Advocate Children’s Hospital, has been named the 2026 Debbie Dawson Hatmaker Leadership Award™ at the 2026 Magnet & Pathway Conference®.
The Debbie Dawson Hatmaker Leadership Award™ honors a nurse leader who demonstrates authenticity, integrity and collaboration, fosters community and creates an environment grounded in ethical leadership. The award recognizes leadership that inspires trust, brings out the best in others and makes a lasting impact on the nursing profession.
“Wendy represents the very best of values-based leadership. Her commitment to developing others, strengthening the voice of nurses and building cultures where excellence can thrive reflects the integrity, authenticity and purpose at the heart of this award,” said Angela Beddoe, Chief Executive Officer of the American Nurses Enterprise. “Her influence extends well beyond the organizations she has served because she has invested in people who will continue leading, mentoring and advancing nursing for years to come.”
Micek’s career reflects a sustained commitment to nursing excellence, professional governance, research, evidence-based practice and leadership development.
Her impact is also reflected in the structures and opportunities she has created for nurses to help shape professional practice. A second nomination highlighted more than 30 years of leadership, education, advocacy and professional service, as well as Micek’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for nurses to contribute to organizational decision-making. The nomination describes mentorship as a defining hallmark of her leadership and notes that her influence has extended regionally, nationally and internationally.
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About the American Nurses Enterprise
The American Nurses Enterprise champions nurses by harnessing The Power of Nurses® to drive transformation and innovation across the healthcare landscape. As the unifying force behind three foundational pillars—the American Nurses Association, the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and the American Nurses Foundation—the enterprise sets the professional standards that empower nurse-led innovation, advocacy, and research. By uniting these core organizations, the enterprise advances the nursing profession and shapes a healthier future for communities nationwide and around the globe.