The Great 100 Nurses Foundation was founded by P.K. Scheerle, RN, in New Orleans, Louisiana nearly four decades ago. Since its founding, the Great 100 Celebrations have honored thousands of extraordinary nurses across Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas—and, for the first time in 2026, Georgia.

Each Great 100 honoree is selected for their deep compassion for humanity, their outstanding contributions to the profession of nursing, and their commitment to mentoring and uplifting others. Being named a Great 100 Nurse is one of the most meaningful recognitions in a nurse’s career. Through this program, the Foundation celebrates these remarkable professionals and encourages every registered nurse to recognize the hero within themselves.

We are incredibly proud of this program and the community it brings together each year. At our annual Celebrations, healthcare leaders, community members, government officials, families, friends, and colleagues gather to recognize and applaud these exemplary registered nurses.

Funds raised through our Celebrations not only support the recognition of the nurses honored each year, but also advance the future of nursing. These funds help promote nursing advocacy, provide scholarships, and support research that improves patient care, advances nursing knowledge, and helps implement discoveries that better lives and communities.

The Great 100 Nurses Celebration belongs to everyone whose life has been touched by an exceptional nurse—and to the nurses who make a difference every single day.