The purpose of the New Mexico Nursing Excellence Awards is to recognize excellence in nursing practice and honor nurses for the contributions they make to their organizations, communities, and the state. Created by nurses for nurses, the Nursing Excellence Awards have honored over 3,300 New Mexico nurse nominees since its creation in 2005.

Nursing Excellence Awards are given in 20 nursing specialties to recognize excellence in practice. In addition, there are special awards which include: The “Touch A Life” Award celebrates the special relationship between nurses and their patients. The prestigious New Mexico Distinguished Nurse of the Year Award is presented to an individual whose practice exemplifies the best of the nursing profession. The Nursing Legend Award pays tribute to retired nurse leaders whose lifetime achievements have significantly contributed to the profession.

A call for nominations is announced in August of this year, with nominations accepted through October. There is a nominal $100 nomination fee, which covers the nominee’s dinner and attendance at the gala. The nominations are blinded and evaluated based on established criteria by a committee of professional nurses from around the state.

The 19th Annual New Mexico Nursing Excellence Awards will be presented at a gala dinner on 
Saturday, April 6th, 2024 at the

Sandia Resort & Casino, 30 Rainbow Road, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113.
Click here for a map and directions.

5:30 PM Reception and Silent Auction
7:00 PM Dinner and Awards Ceremony

Tickets: With your ticket purchase you are reserving a seat(s) at a table. There will be a seating chart at the event where you will be directed to your designated table. There will be volunteers to help guests find there seats. (no paper tickets will be mailed or need to be presented)

Attire: for the evening is black tie optional.

Hotel: NMCNE has secured a special rate for guests who would like to reserve an overnight stay
at Sandia Resort and Casino.
Deadline to book is March 6. To make a booking click here.

Proceeds of the Nursing Excellence Awards support the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence (NMCNE). The NMCNE is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance and engage the nursing community to promote excellence and improve the health of all New Mexicans.