Two associate deans from the Indiana University School of Nursing have been selected as 2026 Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing.
Gregory Carter, PhD, RN, and Kathleen Williamson, PhD, RN, will be honored at the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference on October 8-10, in Washington, D.C. The newest Fellows represent a distinguished cohort of nurse leaders recognized for their substantial contributions to improving health outcomes and who are poised to continue transforming health and healthcare for years to come. The 2026 class includes members from 39 states, the District of Columbia, and 17 countries.
“It is a privilege to celebrate these remarkable nurse leaders whose vision, dedication, and accomplishments represent the very best of our profession,” said American Academy of Nursing president, Debra J. Barksdale, PhD, FAAN. “Through evidence-based innovation, leadership, and scholarship, they have improved outcomes, shaped policy and practice, strengthened nursing education and care delivery, and advanced scalable solutions that promote healthy lives for all people. Their accomplishments demonstrate the depth and reach that define Fellowship in the Academy.”
Carter, associate dean and associate professor at the IU School of Nursing in Bloomington, is an internationally recognized nursing scholar whose research focuses on harm reduction, substance use disorder treatment, and access to healthcare in rural and underserved communities.
"Being named a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing is a meaningful honor, but what matters most to me is what it represents," he said. "It tells me that the people I have built this work around, those too often excluded from usual sources of care, are being seen, and that their right to equitable, evidence-based care belongs at the center of our profession. I hope this Fellowship strengthens my ability to advocate for that work, to mentor emerging nurse scientists, and to show my students that rigorous, community-centered research can change how care is delivered.”
Williamson, associate dean and professor at the IU School of Nursing in Fort Wayne, joined the faculty in 2023 with 20 years’ experience in higher education, as a faculty member, college administrator, and chief academic/nursing officer. She was inducted as a Fellow of the National League for Nursing Academy of Nursing Education in 2025.
“Being named a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing is both an incredible honor and a reminder that meaningful change in healthcare happens through people,” Williamson said. “Throughout my career, I have focused on preparing nurses, faculty, and leaders to use evidence, innovation, and mentorship to improve care. This recognition reinforces my commitment to developing the next generation of nurse leaders, advancing evidence-based education, and helping shape policies that strengthen the nursing workforce and improve the health of our communities.”
“I am incredibly proud to see Dr. Carter and Dr. Williamson recognized by the American Academy of Nursing," said Dean Janet S. Carpenter, PhD, RN, FAAN. “Their leadership and commitment to improving health and advancing the nursing profession exemplify the excellence of our faculty. This well-deserved honor reflects the impact they have made on patients, students, and communities.”
With the induction of Drs. Carter and Williamson, 14 current IU School of Nursing faculty will hold the distinction as Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing. The Class of 2026 Fellows also includes IU School of Nursing alumna, Cynthia Bradley, PhD'16.
