Six nurses reflect on MD Anderson’s sixth Magnet designation

It’s official: MD Anderson has been re-designated a Magnet Recognized hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).  

This year marks the sixth consecutive time that MD Anderson has earned the prestigious international designation — an honor shared by only 25 other organizations worldwide. It represents 24 years of consistent nursing excellence for MD Anderson, starting with our inaugural Magnet designation in 2001. 

2025 also marked the first time that MD Anderson received a special new honor: Magnet Recognition with Distinction. This designation is based on validated empirical data and is only awarded when an institution exceeds the scoring thresholds needed to earn Magnet status — making MD Anderson one of the highest performing Magnet institutions in the world. 

Here’s what six of our more than 5,000 nurses had to say about it. 

Christie Griffin-Jones, Director, Nursing Quality and Magnet

This achievement affirms our continued commitment to excellence, exemplary patient outcomes, and a culture of collaboration and innovation. At its heart is the dedication of our nurses, who consistently embody MD Anderson’s Core Values. Their efforts create an environment that not only supports patients and families but also empowers care teams to thrive. I couldn’t be prouder to have been a part of this. Magnet is not just a designation; it’s a reflection of who we are and how we work together.  

Carla Patel, DNP, Associate Director, Nursing Programs

Maintaining our Magnet status since 2001 means that our practices are rooted in evidence. We aren’t just meeting a requirement for a designation; we are living the Magnet standards. Seeing the tremendous amount of work that goes into this, and learning about all the incredible things our nurses do was such an honor. It made me very proud to be a part of this organization. Patients can really feel confident that they are receiving world-class care here.  

Anumol Thomas, DNP, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Magnet Committee Co-Chair, Magnet Ambassador Co-Chair

Being recognized for a sixth consecutive time — now with Distinction — reflects a sustained commitment to excellence in patient care in one of the most physically and emotionally demanding areas: cancer treatment. It also means that our nurses aren’t meeting high standards occasionally; they’re consistently going above and beyond to support patients and their families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. That kind of consistency doesn’t just happen by chance — it’s the result of shared values, ongoing professional development, and a deep sense of purpose. Working here reminds me that I’m a part of something greater: a legacy of excellence that’s internationally recognized. I am incredibly proud to be part of this institution. 

Debbie Mitchell, Associate DirectorAmbulatory Nursing, Magnet Co-Chair

I am honored, encouraged and exhilarated. This honor is so well-deserved. MD Anderson’s nurses exemplify the principles of Magnet — excellence in clinical practice, innovation and a relentless commitment to improvement— and that is evident in their daily work. We are among an elite group of hospitals. We provide the very best oncology care, and this recognition just validates what we and the world already know.  

Kathryn Slater, Case Manager Navigator, Magnet Co-Chair

My colleagues and I work hard every day to be innovative and to advocate for our patients. I enjoy serving alongside other nurses who actively make a difference in patients’ lives. It’s a huge honor to be one of the few institutions awarded a sixth recognition. I am proud to be making cancer history with these incredible colleagues. 

Shiv Patel, Clinical Nurse, Magnet Ambassador

Nursing at MD Anderson is truly one of a kind, because we are highly renowned for cancer care. For over two decades, we have upheld the highest standards in nursing excellence. It speaks volumes about our commitment. I am overjoyed to be a part of this legacy and proud to be a part of this institution. We have truly set the standard for oncology nursing care. 

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