Sonia Nelson, MSN, RN, has had a remarkable career marked by transformative contributions to nursing and patient care at The Mount Sinai Hospital (MSH). Since joining MSH in 1981 as a clinical nurse in the Neuroscience Unit, she has risen through the ranks, demonstrating unparalleled leadership and expertise. Her tenure has included overseeing multiple critical care units, such as the Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit (NSICU) and the Transplant Intensive Care Unit (TICU), culminating in her appointment as Director of Nursing for the Institute of Critical Care Medicine (ICCM) in 2017. Under her guidance, MSH achieved four consecutive Magnet® Program designations, successfully navigated over twelve Joint Commission surveys, and maintained exceptional standards of patient safety and care during two major pandemic surges.
 
Beyond her administrative and clinical leadership, Ms. Nelson has profoundly impacted the broader healthcare community. As a past president and active member of the NYC Chapter of the American Association of Critical Care (AACN), she has championed initiatives to enhance the safety and quality of care for critically ill patients. Her dedication to humanitarian efforts is reflected in her work to improve access to care in underserved communities, including spearheading relief efforts in Haiti. Her extensive contributions have earned her numerous accolades, such as the Nurse.com Leadership GEM Finalist Award and the AACN Marsh Infinity Community Service Award. Ms. Nelson’s legacy is one of mentorship, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing practice.
 
Although retired, Ms. Nelson remains an active presence at the hospital, frequently seen in meetings and hallways spearheading impactful initiatives. Most notably, she has established and mentored the Senior Clinical Nurse/Charge Nurse Council, which has undertaken projects to foster a healthy work environment. This council addresses critical clinical challenges, enhances the professional practice of nursing, and provides mentorship to support the growth and development of new nurses. Through her continued leadership, Ms. Nelson's influence remains a driving force in advancing excellence in nursing care.