May 13, 2026
YELLOWKNIFE, NT – Aurora College joins the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) in celebrating National Nursing Week during May 11 to May 17, 2026. This year’s theme – The Power of Nurses to Transform Health – highlights the incredible impact nurses have in shaping health care, driving innovation, and advocating for patient-centred care, while underscoring the vital necessity for nurses to lead at policy tables, ensuring their expertise dictates the future of a sustainable and equitable health-care system.
The week also features three special days:
- Monday, May 11 – Indigenous Nurses Day
- Tuesday, May 12 – International Nurses Day
- Wednesday, May 13 – Student Nurses Day
Aurora College has been educating northerners to become Registered Nurses for more than 30 years, with more than 450 graduates as of 2025. In addition to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Aurora College currently offers a Practical Nurse Diploma and has previously delivered a Masters in Nursing – Nurse Practitioner program in conjunction with the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services department. A short online bridging program is also offered to prepare Licensed Practical Nurses to enter the second year of Aurora College’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Nursing and health care programs at Aurora College offer students a unique northern and Indigenous perspective through the curriculum and practice placements that prepare graduates for the expanded demands of practicing in remote and rural health care settings. In addition, long-standing relationships with Northern health care facilities and preceptors help provide a large variety of practicum opportunities for the College’s nursing and health care students. Many graduates have gone on to leadership roles in nursing and health care across the north. Whether they work on the frontlines of health care settings, setting policy to improve health care or in leadership and mentor roles, nurses remain at the heart of health care delivery, patient well being, and in strengthening Canada’s health care system.
Quote:
“The North depends on competent and compassionate nurses who can work with individuals, families and communities at various points in the health care system. The School of Health and Human Services at Aurora College is committed to preparing students for the challenging and rewarding profession of nursing.”
– Jodi Brennan, Chair, School of Health and Human Services, Aurora College.
“Nursing education remains an integral part of Aurora College’s commitment to strengthening northern communities and building partnerships that enhance health and well being. By combining hands-on learning with community-based experience, we are preparing graduates to lead and excel in northern health care. On behalf of Aurora College, I thank our staff, students, alumni, and partners for their contributions to advancing nursing across the Northwest Territories.”
– Dr. Nora Houlahan, Interim President, Aurora College