Dr. Loretta C. Ford, EdD, RN, PNP, FAAN, FAANP, co-founder of the nurse practitioner role, passed away on January 22, 2025, at the age of 104.

Renowned as a nurse, innovator, educator, and author, Dr. Ford's work improved health care delivery and accessibility. In 1965, she and pediatrician Henry K. Silver, MD, established the first Nurse Practitioner (NP) program at the University of Colorado to address the needs of underserved communities.

Dr. Ford's career—including her tenure as Dean and Professor Emerita at the University of Rochester—spanned decades. After semiretiring in 1985, she remained a respected consultant and advocate for the NP profession. Her many honors included the U.S. Surgeon General's Medallion in 2020.

The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) recognized the legacy and impact she leaves on more than 385,000 licensed NPs around the world.

"Dr. Ford's vision, determination and transformational leadership have enriched nursing opportunities and significantly improved patient health worldwide," highlighted Stephen A. Ferrara, DNP, President of the AANP.

“She made everyone she interacted with feel special, and her words of wisdom were legendary,” added Jon D. Fanning, MS, CAE, CNED, Chief Executive Officer of the AANP.

"As nurses, we have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others every single day. We must constantly seek new ways to improve patient care and outcomes," Dr. Ford had once said.

Dr. Ford’s work continues to inspire generations of NPs in patient-centered care.