By Michael Woestehoff, CEO
MPS (Navajo)
National Nurses Week 2026 lifts up the heartbeat of every clinic, hospital, and tribal health program across Indian Country.
A Week Rooted in History and Purpose
From May 6 through May 12, the American Nurses Association celebrates more than 5,000,000 nurses nationwide. Furthermore, the 2026 theme, The Power of Nurses, honors every shift, every patient, every life touched. The week begins on the anniversary of the 1982 proclamation. It closes on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale. This year carries added weight. Notably, ANA marks its 130th anniversary alongside America’s 250th. Last year, 206 buildings lit up through the Nurses Light Up the Sky campaign. ANA aims to surpass that figure in 2026!
Leadership in Every Moment Across Indian Country
The American Organization for Nursing Leadership named “Leadership in Every Moment” as the 2026 theme. This message resonates deeply with the nearly 2,800 nurses serving across the Indian Health Service system, which delivers care to roughly 2.8 million American Indian and Alaska Native patients. In 2025, acting IHS Director Benjamin Smith publicly thanked IHS nurses for their compassionate, high-quality care. Likewise, tribal health systems like the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium celebrate nurses each year. As ANTHC surgical services director Laura Mullin said, we will rely on nurses forever.
Ellsworth Stands With Native Health Professionals
As a Native owned small business and ISBEE-certified medical staffing partner, Ellsworth places highly qualified, culturally competent nurses across IHS facilities. Our nurses also serve tribal health programs and rural hospitals. They bring culture awareness, respect for elders, and steady commitment to Indigenous and Native populations.
Native practitioners understand clinical excellence. Above all, they build community trust. Every shift strengthens Native health.
Treat Yourself This Week
Nurses, enjoy the appreciation! Chipotle is giving away 200,000 free entrée e-cards to teachers and healthcare workers, while Buffalo Wild Wings, MOD Pizza, Potbelly, and Fabletics are offering exclusive nurse discounts. USA TODAY has a great running list of freebies and deals through May 12.
To every nurse caring for Our Relatives, thank you. Ellsworth is honored to walk beside you.
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