Five faculty members from The University of Texas at San Antonio School of Nursing have been recognized among the nation’s most accomplished nursing leaders through induction into fellowship organizations.
The honors recognize excellence in clinical practice, research, leadership, education and contributions that have advanced nursing and healthcare on a national scale.
Steven S. Kertes, DNP, CRNA, clinical associate professor and director of the nurse anesthesia track, was inducted into the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology’s 2026 class of fellows. The distinction is awarded to nurse anesthetists for distinguished leadership and significant contributions to the profession. Kertes was one of only 42 nurse anesthetists nationwide selected for the honor this year.
Kathleen R. Stevens, EdD, RN, ANEF, FAAN, FACTS, professor, was inducted into the Association for Clinical and Translational Science’s inaugural class of fellows. The interprofessional organization recognized individuals for contributions to clinical and translational science and exceptional service to the field. Stevens was one of only two nurses selected alongside 36 fellows from the association’s membership of approximately 6,000 professionals.
Three School of Nursing faculty members were also inducted as fellows of the American Academy of Nursing, commonly considered one of the profession’s highest honors.
The academy recognized Bertha Flores, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAAN, associate research professor; Allison Ihle, PhD, RN, FAAN, assistant professor; and Kelly McGlothen-Bell, PhD, RN, IBCLC, FAAN, assistant professor, for improving health and advancing nursing practice.
The American Academy of Nursing represents more than 3,200 nursing leaders worldwide whose work has shaped health policy, research, administration, practice and education.
“These honors reflect the extraordinary depth of expertise and leadership within our faculty,” said School of Nursing Dean Sonya R. Hardin, PhD, RN, APRN, FAAN. “Faculty fellowships such as these are earned through years of meaningful contributions and sustained leadership. Having multiple faculty recognized by their peers at the national level speaks to the influence of our school and the impact our faculty are making on nursing practice, research, policy and education across the country.”