The 16th Annual Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Recognition Week is September 1–7, 2025. This year’s theme, “Collaborate,” mirrors the NACNS 2026 Annual Conference focus and underscores the power of teamwork in improving patient outcomes.

Whether you’re a CNS, a colleague, or a supporter, this is the time to celebrate the nearly 90,000 CNSs whose expertise touches every corner of health care.

Download our celebration toolkit here

What is CNS Week?

Every September 1–7, hospitals, health systems, and communities across the country join in honoring CNSs — advanced practice registered nurses who blend clinical expertise, leadership, and evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and strengthen health systems.

For CNSs, it’s a chance to reflect on your impact, share your successes, and inspire the next generation. For those considering the CNS role, it’s an open invitation to explore a career dedicated to improving care quality, advancing nursing practice, and leading innovation.

History of CNS Week

NACNS created National CNS Recognition Week in 2009 to honor the birth of Hildegard Peplau (September 1, 1909), a visionary nursing theorist whose work on the nurse–patient relationship reshaped health care. Her seminal text, Interpersonal Relations in Nursing, still informs CNS practice today, particularly in fostering trust, communication, and collaborative care. You can learn more about Hildegard Pepleau in this article >

How is NACNS Celebrating?

Throughout the week, NACNS will spotlight CNSs driving change — from improving infection control to leading complex care teams — and share resources to help amplify your impact.

Highlights include:

• A Town Hall with the NACNS President, Rick Bassett
• Daily stories, tips, and inspiration via social media
• Special resources to help you share your pride in the CNS role

How Can You Get Involved?

• Download the Celebration Toolkit. Get graphics, sample messages, and ideas for both in-person and virtual celebrations.
• Share your CNS pride! Follow NACNS on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram. Share our posts to spread CNS Week awareness! Celebrate with us by posting your photos and activities using #CNSWeek and tagging @nacns. Need inspiration? Check out our sample posts here! Want to go further? Create a short video sharing why you love being a CNS—your story could inspire others! (You can also post photos of yourself in your CNS swag.)
• Update Your Email Signature. Example: “September 1–7 is National CNS Recognition Week! This year’s theme is “Collaborate.” Learn more at nacns.org.”
• Register for our Town Hall. Join us on September 3 at 12 PM ET, for our annual Town Hall hosted by NACNS President Rick Bassett. Register here.
• Host a “Meet the CNS” Event. Offer open office hours or lunch-and-learn sessions so colleagues can learn how CNSs improve patient care.
• Talk to Students. Partner with nursing schools to offer shadowing opportunities during CNS Week, giving students a firsthand look at the role.
• Bring CNS Week to the Boardroom. Ask leadership to include CNS recognition in staff meetings, newsletters, or intranet announcements.
• Collaborate with Other Departments. Co-host a patient safety or quality improvement event with interprofessional colleagues to showcase teamwork in action.
• Become a Member. Joining NACNS strengthens the profession and connects you with other CNSs shaping the future of health care.

Download our celebration toolkit here