ANF Scholars (1955–2012): Stepping Stones to a Nursing Research Career

The American Nurses Foundation (ANF) grant program has been successful in funding nurse researchers' initial research studies for nearly 60 years. (ANF, 2013). From 1955-2012, over 1,000 ANF scholars have been identified through this historical nursing research study. Over the years, obtaining an ANF grant has become increasingly competitive for scholars. The environment supportive of research is evident from the schools that are the top recipients of grants. The ANF has a proud legacy of scholars who have and continue to make contributions to the advancement of nursing science. The paths forged by the ANF scholars illustrate the significant role that small grant programs play in the evolvement of nursing research and the expansion of nursing science.