Celebrating NAHN Emerging Nurse Leaders Award Recipients – 51st Annual National Association of Hispanic Nurses Conference
- infosacnahn
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
At the 2026 NAHN National Conference, three outstanding members of the Sacramento Chapter—Yanely Herrera, Angelica Haro, and Katherine Velasco—were formally recognized with the NAHN Emerging Nurse Leaders Award. This distinguished honor celebrates early-career nurses who demonstrate exceptional leadership, a commitment to advancing health equity, and meaningful contributions to the community. The recognition of these three emerging leaders reflects the strength and promise of the next generation of nursing professionals.
Throughout the year, Yanely, Angelica, and Katherine each exemplified excellence in clinical practice, community engagement, and professional leadership. Their dedication to culturally responsive care and their active involvement in Sacramento NAHN initiatives positioned them as role models for peers and as catalysts for positive change within their respective institutions and communities.
Angelica Haro was honored for her steadfast commitment to health equity and her leadership within both UC Davis Health and the Sacramento Chapter. Her work in mentorship, patient advocacy, and inclusive chapter engagement demonstrated a level of maturity and purpose that distinguished her as an emerging leader. Angelica’s ability to inspire others and elevate culturally responsive nursing practices contributed significantly to the chapter’s mission.
Katherine Velasco was recognized for her exceptional service, collaborative spirit, and creative contributions to chapter initiatives. Her leadership as Treasurer, her involvement in multiple committees, and her dedication to youth education and community outreach showcased her reliability, integrity, and passion for advancing Latino health. Katherine’s enthusiasm and professionalism strengthened the chapter’s programs and set a high standard for emerging nurse leaders.
Yanely Herrera was celebrated for her
authenticity, compassion, and deep commitment to community service. Her leadership within Sutter Health and her pivotal role in launching Proyecto Vocación del Corazón demonstrated initiative, cultural humility, and a strong dedication to uplifting underserved youth. Yanely’s ability to mobilize members, coordinate outreach, and foster meaningful partnerships reflected the true spirit of NAHN’s mission.
As the three honorees stood together on stage, they represented more than individual accomplishments—they embodied the future of nursing leadership. Their achievements underscored NAHN’s commitment to cultivating leaders who bring heart, cultural awareness, and vision to the profession. The Sacramento Chapter proudly celebrated their recognition, acknowledging that Yanely, Angelica, and Katherine will continue shaping a more equitable, compassionate, and inclusive healthcare landscape.
Angelica, Katherine, and Yanely gave their testimonials with the following statements:
"I’m so honored to receive this award alongside my Sacramento NAHN hermanas. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by mentors and leaders who have inspired me, believed in me, and challenged me to grow. I hope to continue paying that forward by serving our community and mentoring others." Yanely Herrera
"Receiving the Emerging Leader Award is an incredible honor and a reminder that leadership is about showing up, serving others, and creating opportunities for those who follow. This recognition motivates me to continue growing as a leader through NAHN, extending my impact beyond bedside nursing, and serving the Hispanic/ Latino community throughout Sacramento. " Angelica Haro
"I am completely honored to have received the Emerging Nurse Leader Award. It was an amazing experience to have shared this moment with both my husband and SacNAHN familia in Denver, Colorado. I hope to inspire both my coworkers and fellow NAHN members that our future in leadership positions is stronger than ever before!" Katherine Velaso Mackin
Sacramento NAHN's President, Monica Aguilar, and President-Elect, Martha Benavides, witnessed firsthand their efforts and well-deserved recognition.
Martha stated, "I am incredibly proud of these outstanding leaders, who represented Sacramento NAHN at the 2026 NAHN conference in Denver. Through their dedication and service, they are helping fulfill NAHN's mission by engaging our community, advancing health equity, and providing invaluable volunteer leadership, serving as role models for our future leaders among our chapter members locally and nationally."
Monica expressed, "Angelica, Yanely, and Katherine exemplify outstanding nurses who lead by example, embodying the core values of compassion, advocacy, service, and empowerment that Sacramento NAHN stands for. Their well-deserved recognition is the beginning of more to come from their exemplary efforts, dedication, and passion to serve, uplift, and support current and future nursing colleagues. Through their individual contributions, collaborations, and steadfast commitment, we as a Chapter can create a path to a more promising future for the Greater Sacramento comunidad."
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