Galloway, N.J. — Larider Ruffin, associate professor of Nursing at Stockton, was named a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) due to his exceptional contributions to the nursing field and his commitment to advancing the role of nurse practitioners. Notably, Ruffin is the 10th African American male to receive this honor from the AANP, the largest professional organization representing nurse practitioners (NPs) in the United States.

“Being the 10th black man to be inducted as a fellow of the AANP is a significant milestone that further underscores the importance and need for greater diversity in the nursing profession. Although there are less than 1,000 fellows out of more than 355,000 licensed NPs in the U.S., there is a need for greater representation, and I am relieved that the AANP leadership understands that, and they are committed to increasing diversity in our profession,” Ruffin reflected. “This is huge for the minority NPs and NP students out there knowing that they, too, can one day become a fellow in their profession.”

When Ruffin learned he had been selected as a fellow, he felt joy and relief, given that roughly 50% of the applicants are accepted. He noted that this vetting process takes about four months from submission to notification of awards.

"Achieving Fellow status within the AANP is significant because it provides a platform for advocacy and leadership, fosters collaboration and networking, and promotes ongoing professional development," Ruffin said. "It is a distinction that reflects a nurse practitioner's dedication to excellence and the advancement of health care."

Ruffin has made significant contributions to the nursing profession throughout his career and especially in the fields of smoking and vaping. As the Graduate Nursing Chair at Stockton, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the education and training of future nurse practitioners.

In addition to his role as a program chair, Ruffin has been actively involved in research, scholarship and clinical practice. He has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals, presented at national conferences, and served on national boards to further the advancement of nurse practitioners and health care delivery.

Ruffin takes his role as both an educator and a mentor to heart. "Being able to share my knowledge and expertise with colleagues, students and aspiring NPs is the best one can ask for. I have a unique and significant role in shaping the future generation of nurse practitioners and contribute to the production of some of the best nurse practitioners in the region."

"This is a great opportunity to further place Stockton on the national map of professional nurses. This recognition can be leveraged to influence health care policies, shape curriculum development and promote the role of nurse practitioners within the university and the larger health care community," he concluded.

Reported by Mandee McCullough

Photo submitted