Five innovative models of care have been selected as Edge Runners, the American Academy of Nursing (Academy) announced today, and two of the models are from the University of Iowa College of Nursing. With this elite designation, both Simulation in Motion - Iowa (SIM-IA) and the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program (IONRP) are recognized as two of the most innovative and transformative nurse-designed program in the country.
Edge Runners are nurse-designed models of care that reduce cost, improve health care quality, advance health equity, and enhance consumer satisfaction. A signature initiative of the Academy, the Edge Runners program acknowledges innovative ideas that transform health. Each of these programs highlights nurses’ resourcefulness, leadership, determination, and collaboration in developing new models of providing exceptional care.
“[This designation] is both humbling and deeply affirming,” says IONRP Director Nicole Weathers. “It acknowledges the tremendous work we've done to reimagine the world of transition to practice for newly graduated nurses. It validates the vision, collaboration, and unwavering commitment our team has poured into the program. Most importantly, it reinforces that innovative nursing solutions can start small, continually evolve, and create lasting impact far beyond what was ever imagined.”
The IONRP is the first fully online transition-to-practice program designed to support new graduate nurses (NGNs), especially in rural and underserved areas. It offers a standardized, evidence-based curriculum adaptable to diverse healthcare settings. Using a hub-and-spoke model, NGNs receive online education, peer support, and practical application guided by organizational leaders and preceptors. Since 2014, IONRP has expanded to 54 organizations across 13 states, improving retention, reducing costs, and empowering nurses.
SIM-IA is a nurse-led mobile simulation-based continuing education program providing hands-on emergency training to rural and critical access healthcare providers, including emergency medical services, nurses, and community members. Using three mobile units, SIM-IA delivers standardized, evidence-based simulations tailored to local needs across Iowa’s 99 counties. In the first three years, SIM-IA has offered over 2,500 hours of free education to 11,000 personnel through 650 simulations, improving emergency care readiness throughout the state.
“The University of Iowa College of Nursing has many innovative, creative and resourceful nurses who work to improve and transform health on a daily basis,” said Kelting Dean Julie Zerwic. “To have not one, but two of our programs designated as Edge Runners this year is testament to the dedication, ingenuity, and leadership of Iowa Nursing."
“The Academy is thrilled to designate these models of care as Edge Runners. This year’s models represent a range of nursing specialties, from post-care triage to sexual assault telehealth services to dementia support services, as well as the future of the profession through online residency programs and mobile simulation labs,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Research and innovation are priorities of the Academy, and each Edge Runner model demonstrates how nurses are enhancing care, improving outcomes, and addressing important health challenges.”
Media Contacts:
Chris Brewer, christopher-brewer@uiowa.edu, 319-335-9267
Riza Falk, riza-falk@uiowa.edu, 319-467-0068