It was with profound sadness that I learned yesterday of the death of the Honorable Daniel K. Inouye, senior U.S. Senator from Hawaii, and a true American hero. Throughout his remarkable career, Senator Inouye was a tireless advocate and champion of nurses and nursing research. Indeed, he often remarked on the importance of nurses in his life, noting especially the care he had received following the injuries he suffered during his distinguished service in World War II.
The Senator was instrumental in the establishment of the National Center for Nursing Research in 1985, and in the elevation of the Center to the National Institute of Nursing Research in 1993. Last year, during the commemoration of NINR’s 25th Anniversary, it was our great pleasure to honor Senator Inouye with a plaque of appreciation for his support of nursing science.
On behalf of NINR, and the nursing science community, I offer my sincere condolences to Senator Inouye’s family and loved ones. In honor of his life, we will continue our commitment to supporting research to build the scientific foundation for clinical practice, and to improve health and quality of life for all Americans.
Patricia A. Grady, Ph.D.
Director, NINR