Rep. Kiggans Commends Oncology Nurses for 50 Years of Service

WASHINGTON, DC-Today, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02), alongside Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), introduced a resolution to recognize the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) for 50 years of compassionate care and effective treatment to patients with cancer across the country.

Rep. Jen Kiggans said, "In representing over 100,000 oncology nurses across the United States, the Oncology Nursing Society has played an integral role in providing effective treatment and attentive care to patients with cancer since its founding in 1975. On its 50th anniversary, I ask that the United States Congress recognize the importance of oncology nurses in the treatment and rehabilitation of cancer patients across our country. In an era where compassionate and extensive cancer care is as important as ever, I commend the Oncology Nursing Society for their work on the front lines of treatment and their invaluable contributions to this field."

"Oncology nurses provide essential care to patients battling cancer, helping them and their families from initial diagnosis through the end of treatment," said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. "I congratulate the Oncology Nursing Society on their 50^th anniversary, and thank them for their ongoing work in helping treat and cure patients grappling with this terrible disease."

Brenda M. Nevidjon, MSN, RN, FAAN, ONS Chief Executive Officer said, "For 50 years, ONS has remained steadfast in our mission to support nurses as they deliver compassionate, evidence-based care to patients with cancer. This Congressional Resolution affirms not only our past, but the powerful role that oncology nurses will continue to play in shaping the future of cancer care."

Excerpts from the resolution:

"Whereas the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) was founded in 1975 with the mission to promote excellence in oncology nursing and quality cancer care; ONS has grown to represent over 100,000 oncology nurses in the United States and serves as the professional home to more than 35,000 members… For five decades, ONS has honored and maintained nursing's historical and essential commitment to advocacy for the public good by providing oncology nurses with access to the highest quality education programs, cancer-care resources, research opportunities, and networks for peer support.

The 50^th anniversary of ONS marks a significant milestone in the organization's history and provides an opportunity to celebrate its achievements and contributions to the field of oncology nursing."

Read the full resolution here

Background:

• The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) was founded in 1975 in order to promote exceptional nursing and treatment for patients with cancer.
• Cancer continues to impact the lives of our friends and family. The National Cancer Institute estimates 2,041,910 new cancer cases with 618,120 deaths in 2025. Organizations such as the ONS are crucial in battling cancer, and their service to our nation cannot be ignored.
• In its 50th year, the ONS has grown to represent over 100,000 oncology nurses across the country and it continues to advocate for the very best medical treatment that research has to offer while expanding access to education for nurses across the country to develop an expertise in their field.

Rep. Kiggans' previous work to support our nation's nurses:

• In May of 2025, Rep. Kiggans introduced the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2025 which addresses our national nursing shortage by expanding access to opportunities for education.
• In May of 2025, Rep. Kiggan introduced the Magnifying Opportunities to Recruit and Educate (MORE) Nurses Act to once again address the nursing shortage by directing the National Advisory on Council on Nurse Education to investigate policy solutions and federal programs that can aid in resolving the issue.