The purpose of the New Mexico Nursing Excellence Awards is to recognize excellence in nursing practice and honor nurses for the contributions they make to their organizations, communities, and the state. Created by nurses for nurses, the Nursing Excellence Awards have honored over 3,300 New Mexico nurse nominees since its creation in 2005.

Nursing Excellence Awards are given in 20 nursing specialties to recognize excellence in practice. In addition, there are special awards which include: The “Touch A Life” Award celebrates the special relationship between nurses and their patients. The prestigious Distinguished Nurse of the Year Award is presented to an individual whose practice exemplifies the best of the nursing profession. The Nursing Legend Award pays tribute to retired nurse leaders whose lifetime achievements have significantly contributed to the profession.

A call for nominations is announced in September of this year, with nominations accepted through November. There is a nominal $100 nomination fee, which covers the nominee’s dinner and attendance at the gala. The nominations are blinded and evaluated based on established criteria by a committee of professional nurses from around the state.

The 20th Annual New Mexico Nursing Excellence Awards will be presented at a gala dinner on Saturday, April 12th, 2025 at the Sandia Resort & Casino, 30 Rainbow Road, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113. Click here for a map and directions.

5:30 PM Reception 
7:00 PM Dinner and Awards Ceremony

Seats: Seats cost $125. With your seat purchase you are reserving a seat(s) at a table. There will be a seating chart at the event where you will be directed to your designated table. There will be volunteers to help guests find their seats. Tables seat 10 attendees. If you would like to purchase a table please contact us directly.

**Please note that all seats are non-refundable after March 26th**

Attire: The Nursing Excellence Awards is a semi-formal event. Black tie attire is optional.

Hotel: Sandia Resort and Casino, 30 Rainbow Road, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113

Proceeds of the Nursing Excellence Awards support the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence (NMCNE). The NMCNE is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance and engage the nursing community to promote excellence and improve the health of all New Mexicans.

ITEM PICK UP
If you purchased tumblers or posters when you bought your tickets, stop by the Information Table at the Gala to collect your items. Please note that you must pick up your items before you leave. NMCNE does not mail items, nor do we hold items for a later pick-up date.