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Etta B. Cummings, RN

The first graduate nurse in America to take up private duty nursing. She came to WA State in 1889 and was a charter member of the Pierce County Nurses Association in 1905. She was one of the twelve nurses who organized the Washington State Graduate Nurses Association, (later renamed WSNA in 1940). In 1908, she was elected as the first treasurer of WSNA and was reelected to that position until 1921 when she retired due to failing health. In 1922, when she died, her final legacy to nurses was that she left her home to be used as the nucleus to establish a fund for "sick and worn-out nurses in the State of Washington." The WSNF continues to raise funds for the Etta B. Cummings fund to assist nurses in need.

2008 Inductees
About WSNA

Founded in 1908, WSNA is the professional organization representing more than 15,000 registered nurses in Washington State. WSNA effectively advocates for the improvement of health standards and availability of quality health care for all people; promotes high standards for the nursing profession; and advances the professional and economic development of nurses.

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