A Message from the Chief Nursing Officer

At RWJBarnabas Health, our diverse team of nurses have proven to be leaders in bringing health and healing to our communities and our region. As our nation has faced the most difficult of times, our nurses have performed with enormous skill and strength. Each day we make a positive impact on the lives of so many while striving for innovation in nursing practice that is transforming healthcare for the residents of New Jersey.

At RWJBarnabas Health we work with the best of the best and foster clinical excellence, professional growth and a collaborative environment. As you explore nursing opportunities, we want you to know there is no better place to be a nurse.

We are RWJBarnabas Health nurses – shaping the future of nursing together.

Nancy Holecek Senior Vice President for Patient Care Services

Nancy Holecek, MAS, MHA, BSN, RN
Executive Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer
RWJBarnabas Health

The Institute for Nursing Excellence

Welcome to The Institute for Nursing Excellence! We are dedicated to building and sustaining a nursing workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. Through continuous learning and innovation, we strive to improve patient outcomes and enhance access to care by:

  • Aligning nursing practices across RWJBarnabas Health
  • Fostering professional development, innovation and research
  • Enhancing collaboration with academic partners
  • Promoting inter-professional education and collaboration
  • Standardizing practices to reduce redundancy and promote consistency

Our mission is supported by the Center for Professional Development, Innovation and Research, which offers a range of educational programs and initiatives designed to support the professional development of nurses and inter-professional teams at all levels. From nursing students to experienced nurses, we provide a variety of resources to help clinicians expand their knowledge and improve their practice. Our team is highly skilled and knowledgeable, and committed to providing ongoing opportunities to practice, learn, and grow professionally.

We are excited to be a part of the future of nursing and to help shape the healthcare landscape of New Jersey and beyond!

Mary Beth Russell

Mary Beth Russell PhD, MA, RN, NPD-BC, NEA-BC, FNAP
Senior Vice President
The Center for Professional Development, Innovation and Research
The Institute for Nursing Excellence

RWJBarnabas Health Celebrates Nurses Week 2023!

Center for Professional Development, Innovation and Research

Read more about our publications and research, along with our professional development calendar offering online class registration.

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Join Our Nursing Team

The Future Is Waiting for You at RWJBarnabas Health

We’re a thriving, diverse and strong organization serving more than five million Garden State residents with an unrivaled breadth of renowned specialty services — and our world-class nurses are at the heart of everything we accomplish.

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Nursing News