Nine Outstanding Individuals Recognized as 2024 Fellows of AORN for Exemplary Contributions to Perioperative Nursing

Denver, Co., Nov. 21, 2023 – The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) proudly announces the recognition of nine distinguished individuals as Fellows of AORN, a prestigious acknowledgment reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and contributions to the field of perioperative nursing.

The title of Fellow of AORN is an honor that reflects a commitment to advancing perioperative nursing practice, education, and leadership. Individuals recognized as Fellows have not only displayed excellence in their roles but have also contributed significantly to the broader perioperative community.

The 2024 Fellows of AORN:

• Larry L. Asplin, MSN, BSN, CSSM(E), CNOR(E), FAORN
• Donna J. Doyle, DNP, RN, CNOR, NE-BC, FAORN
• Holly S. Ervine, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, NPD-BC, CNOR, FAORN
• Brenda G. Larkin, APRN, MS, ACNS-BC, CNS-CP, CSSM, CNOR, FAORN
• Cassendra A. Munro, PhD, BS, RN, RNFA, CNOR, FAORN, FAAN
• Kenneth Romito, DNP, APRN, AGCNS-BC, CNOR, CSSM, FAORN
• Christopher Stucky, PhD, RN, CNOR, CSSM, CNAMB, NEA-BC, FAORN, FAAN
• Sharon Ann Van Wicklin, PhD, RN, CNOR, CRNFA(E), CPSN-R, PLNC, ISPAN-F, FAORN, FAAN
• David A. Wyatt, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, CNOR, FAORN, FAAN

What it Means to be a Fellow

AORN Fellows are recognized for their sustained contributions to perioperative nursing and commitment to the advancement of the field. The fellowship is awarded based on a stringent set of criteria that includes a significant impact on perioperative nursing practice, leadership, education, research, and community involvement.

To be named a Fellow of AORN is to be acknowledged as a leader and trailblazer, embodying the highest standards of professionalism and excellence in perioperative care.

Criteria for the Award

Among other criteria, to be considered for the Fellowship, nominees must demonstrate:

• A minimum of five years of active membership in AORN.
• Hold a master’s degree or higher, at least one degree must be in nursing.
• Hold a nationally recognized current or emeritus status certification in nursing. 

• Significant activities on behalf of AORN at the state, regional, national or international level.

• Significant contributions to perioperative nursing through education, research, clinical practice, or leadership.
• A commitment to advancing the AORN mission and vision. 

"The 2024 Fellows of AORN exemplify the pinnacle of excellence in perioperative nursing,” said Linda Groah, executive director and CEO of AORN. “Their unwavering commitment to advancing our profession, coupled with their leadership and innovation, sets a remarkable standard for us all. AORN is proud to recognize these outstanding individuals as Fellows, celebrating their profound impact on perioperative nursing and the healthcare community at large."

"Fellows of AORN are not just individuals; they are beacons of inspiration and catalysts for positive change in perioperative nursing,” said Elizabeth Pincus, president of AORN. “Their commitment to advancing our field has a ripple effect, influencing colleagues, shaping best practices, and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes. Larry Asplin, Donna Doyle, Holly Ervine, Brenda Larkin, Cassendra Muro, Kenneth Romito, Christopher Stucky, Sharon Ann Van Wicklin, and David Wyatt have left an indelible mark on perioperative nursing, and their impact will resonate for generations to come."

The induction ceremony for the Fellows of AORN will take place at the AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo March 9 – 12, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee. The ceremony will celebrate the achievements of these outstanding individuals and inspire the perioperative nursing community to continue striving for excellence in patient care.

About AORN

The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN), founded in 1949 and headquartered in Denver, Colo., represents the interests of more than 200,000 perioperative nurses by providing evidence-based research, education, standards, and practice resources. AORN unites and empowers perioperative nurses, healthcare organizations, and industry partners to support safe surgery for every patient, every time.