INS proudly honors Marlene M. Steinheiser, PhD, RN, CRNI®, FAAN, Chief Clinical Officer, on her induction as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. Held on October 10, 2026, in Washington, DC, the Academy’s induction ceremony welcomed nursing leaders representing 39 states, the District of Columbia, and 17 countries.
Fellowship in the Academy is one of nursing’s highest honors, recognizing leaders whose achievements have made a lasting influence in health care. The FAAN designation, Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, reflects demonstrated achievement and sustained impact.
For Dr. Steinheiser, this recognition honors a career devoted to advancing infusion therapy and vascular access practice, strengthening patient safety, and supporting nurses’ professional development worldwide.
An internationally recognized nursing leader, researcher, educator, and advocate, Dr. Steinheiser has continually championed the translation of evidence into practice. Through clinical standards, continuing education, and global partnerships, her leadership has helped disseminate and implement the INS Infusion Therapy Standards of Practice across health care systems in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America.
Her influence also extends through her scholarship and service. A published author and frequent international speaker, she has addressed infusion therapy, vascular access, health equity, patient safety, and nurse well-being. She has served the profession through leadership roles within INS and currently contributes to national and international committees focused on infusion practice, vascular access, and patient safety. Together, her work in education, research, and policy has influenced clinical practice and professional development for thousands of nurses worldwide.
“This prestigious honor is a testament to Marlene’s outstanding leadership, dedication, and significant contributions to the nursing profession,” said Chris Hunt, Chief Executive Officer of INS. “Her commitment to advancing patient care through excellence, innovation, and service has made a lasting impact, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone with her.”
Dr. Steinheiser earned her PhD in Nursing from the University of Arizona and her Master of Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Akron. She has held the CRNI® certification since 1991, exemplifying her longstanding devotion to the specialty.
While fellowship recognizes her individual contributions, Dr. Steinheiser views this milestone as a reflection of the relationships and support that have shaped her career.
“Induction as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing is one of the most meaningful honors of my career. While it recognizes my contributions to nursing and healthcare, it also reminds me that no achievement is accomplished alone,” she said.
“Throughout my career, I have been mentored by remarkable nurse leaders, inspired by dedicated professors, challenged by research collaborators, and — over the past nine years — supported by colleagues at the Infusion Nurses Society. I’m especially grateful to my husband and family for their unwavering support. I’m honored to join the Academy’s distinguished Fellows and look forward to continuing to advance nursing science, practice, and education for patients around the world.”
The Academy brings together nursing experts to inform health policy and improve health and health care. As a Fellow, Dr. Steinheiser joins a community whose purpose aligns closely with her commitment to advancing nursing knowledge and translating it into meaningful improvements in care.
For the INS community, her induction is a proud moment and meaningful recognition of infusion nursing’s global impact. We congratulate Dr. Steinheiser on this well-deserved honor and celebrate her continued dedication to the nurses, clinicians, and patients at the heart of our mission.