Dave Hanson (In Memoriam)
MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, NEA-BC
Director of Program Strategy & Partnerships
Society of Critical Care Medicine
Dave Hanson is the former Director of Program Strategy & Partnerships at the Society of Critical Care Medicine. In Mr. Hanson’s executive role with the Society of Critical Care Medicine, an interprofessional global organization representing the interests of more than 17,000 members, he was the staff lead for the world-renowned Surviving Sepsis Campaign promoting adult and children’s guidelines globally. He leveraged nursing’s influence within a multidisciplinary team with worldwide influence. In varied positions from Clinical Nurse Specialist to executive leader, Mr. Hanson led organizational efficiencies at one health system, which saved $15 million. Implementing electronic health record systems across six medical centers standardized care for 28 million patients annually. As the President of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), Mr. Hanson’s theme of “Reclaiming Our Priorities” was featured at more than 250 conferences and reached 36,000 nurses. Additionally, he used the AACN platform to initiate strategies for nurses to say “No” to distractions and maintain vigilance on patient safety. Mr. Hanson championed the inherent value of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, as every voice must be heard. He challenged the Board of Directors of AACN on DEI years before the term was used. As AACN’s 38th president, he left an inclusive legacy and is one of his proudest accomplishments. Mr. Hanson passed away in Spring 2024.