2026 NNPBC Nursing Awards Recipients Announced
Nurses and Nurse Practitioners of BC, the province’s professional association for nursing, is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 NNPBC Nursing Awards, recognizing outstanding nurses and nurse practitioners from communities across British Columbia.
This year’s award winners reflect the distinction and diversity of the nursing profession. Across clinical practice, leadership, education, innovation, First Nations/Indigenous health and more, these individuals and teams are improving care and strengthening BC’s health system.
2026 Awards Recipients
Cariboo Memorial Hospital Emergency Department
Clinical Impact Award
Honouring nursing professionals whose hands-on practice transforms patient outcomes and community health.
Lisa Creelman, NP
Assistant Professor, Thompson Rivers University
Educator’s Impact Award
Celebrating those who shape and inspire the next generation of nursing professionals.
Abby Delmar, LPN
Licensed Practical Nurse, Yucalta Lodge LTC
Emerging Leader Award
Spotlighting early-career nurses already making powerful contributions.
Trevor Hobbis, ESN
BScN Program, Vancouver Island University
Future of Nursing Award
Recognizing nursing students whose dedication and vision inspire future-focused leadership.
Lillian Hung, RN
Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair, UBC School of Nursing
Innovation & Inquiry Award
Celebrating nursing professionals who transform care through bold innovation and evidence-informed action.
Cheryl Whittleton, RN
Chief Nursing and Allied Health Officer, Interior Health
Inspire to Lead Award
For transformative nursing leaders who guide teams, systems and transformation.
Cathy Ulrich, RN
Former President & CEO, Northen Health
Legacy of Nursing Award
co-presented by NNPBC and the Canadian Nurses Association
Recognizing transformative leaders whose careers have left a lasting mark on the nursing profession.
Raluca Radu, RN
Planetary Health Consultant & Adjunct Professor at UBC School of Nursing
Planetary Health Champion Award
co-presented by NNPBC and CANE-BC
Honouring commitment to sustainable practice and environmental advocacy in nursing.
Ya·kiⱡʔawumuʔtiⱡamnamki – Ktunaxa Nation Regional Health Centre
Primary Care Champion Award
co-presented by NNPBC’s primary care programs
Honouring exceptional leadership, innovation and measurable impact in primary care.
Melissa Crump, RN
Executive Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Provincial Health Services Authority
Voice for Change Award
Honouring nurses who champion equity, justice and systemic change through public awareness.
Juliet Bullock, RN
Site Manager, Cormorant Island Community Health Centre
Wisdom in Wellness: First Nations/Indigenous Health Award
co-presented by NNPBC and the First Nations Health Authority
Celebrating First Nations and Indigenous health leadership rooted in community, culture and healing.
“These recipients show what’s possible in nursing today, and where our profession is going. It’s a privilege to recognize their work and to celebrate the impact nurses and nurse practitioners are having in communities across BC, ” said NNPBC CEO Angela Wignall.
All 11 award recipients will be recognized at the 2026 Nursing Awards Gala on May 28 in Vancouver, an evening bringing together the nursing and broader healthcare community to celebrate nursing excellence across BC through a reception, dinner and award presentations. Tickets are available for purchase through May 23.
For more information, please visit www.nursingawards.nnpbc.com or contact us at media@nnpbc.com.
Download a PDF of this announcement.