Six AANA CRNAs Chosen for the American Academy of Nursing 2025 Class of New Fellows

Rosemont, Ill. — Six members of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) have been selected to join the 2025 Class of Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing. These Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), also known as nurse anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists, and their cohort of more than 200 distinguished nurse leaders are recognized for their substantial and sustained impact on health and healthcare.

These six CRNAs will be inducted at the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference, October 16 – 18, 2025, in Washington, DC.

The 2025 Class of Fellows were selected from a competitive pool of applicants and were reviewed by the Academy’s Fellow Selection Committee as part of a rigorous application process. They represent a cross-section of nursing’s most dynamic leaders that make positive changes in their systems and communities to champion health and wellness. Induction into the academy represents the highest honor in nursing—earning the Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) credential is a significant recognition of their accomplishments.

Meet the 2025 FAAN CRNA Fellows:

Bimpe “Bebe” Adenusi, PhD, APRN, CRNA, CNE, FAANA, FNAP, of Thomas Jefferson University

Bimpe Adenusi is an accomplished academic leader, equity advocate, and founder of the Nigerian American Nurse Anesthetist Association. As chair and program administrator of Thomas Jefferson University’s Nurse Anesthesia Program, she spearheads strategic growth and fosters inclusive academic environments. She developed the Student Success Mentorship Initiative to enhance student performance and career readiness and leads global efforts to expand anesthesia care in underserved regions.

“Earning the FAAN credential is a deeply humbling milestone that honors the work of so many mentors, colleagues, and communities who have poured into me,” said Adenusi. “It reinforces my commitment to advancing health equity, building inclusive academic and clinical environments, and empowering the next generation of nurse anesthesiology leaders. I am reminded that this is not the culmination, but the beginning of even greater responsibility.”

Veronica Amos, PhD, CRNA, PHCNS-BC, FAANA, of the University of Maryland School of Nursing

Veronica Amos is a pioneer in advancing diversity in nurse anesthesiology education. Under her leadership as CRNA program director, the program achieved a 30% increase in graduation rates among resident registered nurse anesthetists (RRNAs) of color. She champions leadership development, scholarly engagement, and mentorship—cultivating a thriving community of CRNAs who return to educate and uplift future cohorts.

“As a FAAN, I will contribute to the advancement of the nursing profession through expertise and leadership,” said Amos. “This will give me the opportunity to play a vital role in shaping the future of nursing and healthcare delivery. Being a FAAN is the highest honor that can be bestowed a nurse and it demonstrates my deep commitment to not only excellence but advancing nursing and healthcare.”

Sarah Giron, PhD, CRNA, FAANA, of the Kaiser Permanente School of Anesthesia

A nationally recognized educator and researcher, Sarah Giron has advanced clinical and policy innovations throughout her career. Her work includes National Institutes of Health-funded studies on chronic pain, pivotal trials for neuromuscular blockade, and leadership in securing California’s CRNA opt-out status. At Kaiser Permanente, she inspires students to lead with compassion and scientific integrity.

“Receiving the FAAN designation is an incredibly meaningful recognition that reflects not only my dedication to the nurse anesthesia profession, but also the unwavering support and inspiration of those who have walked alongside me,” said Giron. “This distinction is a shared achievement—a culmination of collective wisdom, encouragement, and a steadfast commitment to advancing our field and our future.”

Tony Umadhay, PhD, CRNA, APRN, FAANA, of the Barry University School of Nursing

Tony Umadhay is a transformative leader and policy advocate whose work has expanded access to nursing education and diversified the CRNA workforce. He has secured over $2 million in funding for underrepresented students and co-developed a national rural anesthesia program in the Philippines. His leadership continues to shape workforce development and global care access.

“Being named a FAAN is both a personal honor and a shared milestone with the nurse anesthesiology community,” said Umadhay. “It deepens my commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce, expanding access to our profession, and ensuring CRNAs continue to lead in building patient-centered care models that improve health outcomes both locally and globally.” 

Young “John” Yauger, PhD, CRNA, FAANA, of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology Foundation

John Yauger brings a distinguished military and academic background to his role as CEO of the AANA Foundation. With 25 years of Army service—including frontline deployments and groundbreaking research roles—he has helped pioneer innovations in trauma care and neurobiology. His work exemplifies the intersection of service, science, and education.

“Becoming a FAAN is a profound honor and a testament to the power of service, science, and teamwork,” said Yauger. “My journey has been shaped by those who mentored and collaborated with me to advance care in the most challenging environments. I look forward to carrying that mission forward and building a future where innovation and equity define how we care for patients.”

John C. Welch, DNP, MS, CRNA, of the Ohio State University College of Nursing

John Welch is an influential global health leader, educator, and humanitarian. He directs Ohio State’s Nurse Anesthesia Track and has led initiatives ranging from launching anesthesia education in Haiti to coordinating statewide COVID-19 contact tracing. His leadership in crisis and commitment to equity have earned him national and international acclaim.

“This recognition is more than a professional milestone; it’s a call to keep pushing forward,” said Welch. “I remain committed to advancing equitable access to anesthesia care in the U.S. and around the world—through clinical practice, advocacy, and by educating the next generation of CRNAs and nurse leaders to center health equity in all they do. There’s important work ahead, and I’m grateful to be part of it.”