NCANA Public Relations Award

The NCANA Public Relations Award recognizes an individual or group of individuals who has or have made outstanding contributions to advancing the public image and visibility of nurse anesthetists in North Carolina. Presented by the North Carolina Association of Nurse Anesthetists (NCANA), this award honors excellence in communication, community engagement, and professional representation. Recipients have demonstrated leadership in promoting accurate understanding of CRNA practice, educating stakeholders, and enhancing the reputation of nurse anesthesia through media outreach, public speaking, legislative engagement, or community involvement. Their efforts strengthen public trust and elevate awareness of the essential role CRNAs play in delivering safe, high-quality anesthesia care.

Purpose:

To recognize excellence in advancing the public image, visibility, and understanding of CRNAs.

Eligibility Criteria:

  1. Individual CRNA, group of CRNAs, healthcare team, or organization.
  2. May or may not be an NCANA member (preference for members).
  3. Individual CRNAs nominees cannot be currently serving on the NCANA BOD or the NCANA Nominating Committee.

Selection Criteria:

Nominees should demonstrate (at least 2 of following):

  1. Effective media engagement (print, digital, broadcast, podcast, social media).
  2. Public education initiatives explaining CRNA practice.
  3. Outreach to hospital leadership, policymakers, or community groups.
  4. Development of communication campaigns that elevate CRNA visibility.
  5. Measurable improvement in awareness, perception, or engagement.

Key Distinctions:

  1. Focused specifically on communication, messaging, and public perception.
  2. Can include a group or organization, unlike most other awards.
  3. Not necessarily about internal NCANA service or long-term career impact.

Frequency:

May be awarded annually. 

Information needed to submit a nomination for this award: 

Section I: Nominee Information 

  • Full Name
  • Credentials
  • Employer/Position
  • Years as a CRNA
  • Phone
  • Email
  • NCANA Membership Status

Section II: Nominator Information 

  • Full Name
  • Credentials
  • Relationship to Nominee
  • Phone
  • Email
  • NCANA Membership Status

Section III: Narrative Statement 

Provide a detailed narrative (maximum 750 words) addressing how the nominee meets the criteria for this award. Include measurable outcomes, leadership roles, and specific impact. 

Section IV: Supporting Documentation 

  • Curriculum Vitae or Resume of Nominee
  • Letters of Support from NCANA Members (2)
  • Documentation of Impact or Outcomes
  • Media/Program Materials (if applicable)