What is The DAISY Award for International Neuroscience Nurse Leadership?

The DAISY Foundation, standing for Diseases Attacking the Immune System, was created to honor the memory of J. Patrick Barnes who was diagnosed with the auto-immune disease ITP (Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura). The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses was created to recognize kind and compassionate nursing care in honor of the care received by Patrick and his family. The DAISY Award honors the super-human work nurses do for patients and families every day wherever they practice, in whatever role they serve, and throughout their careers.  The International Neuroscience Nurse Leadership Award encompasses all this and more by honoring those who have spent their careers working in the neuroscience specialty.

Who may nominate a nurse?

Anyone may submit a nomination – patients, family members, co-workers, physicians, staff – anyone who experiences or observes extraordinary compassionate care being provided by a neuroscience nurse.  Nominees, however, must be members of their country’s neuroscience nursing society/organization and that society/organization must be a current member of the WFNN.  To find out whether your society/organization is a member of the WFNN, check out our Partners page.

What will the recipient receive in recognition?

DAISY Award Honorees receive:

• A certificate held in a handsome portfolio, proclaiming the recipient an “Extraordinary Neuroscience Nurse Leader.”
• A DAISY Award pin
• A unique, hand-carved serpentine stone sculpture from Zimbabwe, entitled “A Healer’s Touch.” Click here for more about these beautiful works of art.
• A Spotlight page on the DAISY Foundation and WFNN websites, featuring a photo and telling the story of why this nurse was honored
• A DAISY presentation (either in their unit or at a more public gathering). The presentation generally takes place in the nurse’s unit or at a WFNN conference, often as a surprise to the Honoree.

How is a nurse chosen to receive The DAISY Award for International
Neuroscience Nurse Leadership?

A DAISY Award is given to a deserving neuroscience nurse leader once a year. Nominees must be a member of a nursing organization that has current membership with the WFNN and must meet the following criteria:

Demonstrates outstanding neuroscience clinical skills.

Shares expertise by educating nurses, patients, and families.

Participates in continuing education and professional development activities. 

Models respectful relationships with patients, families, and members of the healthcare team.

Utilizes scientific knowledge and innovative strategies in providing care to neuroscience patients, improving safety and patient outcomes.

Nominations will open January 15th, 2026 for the 2026 award year.

Who selects the winner of the Award?

A selection committee comprised of members of the WFNN Executive Board will be formed annually. They will be tasked with reviewing all submitted nomination applications, selecting and announcing the winner. The 2026 winner will be announced at the 2nd annual CBraENN conference in Sao Paulo, Brazil, June 26-27, 2026.

What are the deadlines for this Award?

Nominations are open as of January 15th, 2026 through April 30th, 2026.

How do I submit a nomination?

Please use the button above, “Nominate a Nurse” to submit your nomination.