Named AANA fellow, Rabe recognized for leadership in nurse anesthesiology

Cora Rabe, DNP, nurse anesthesia program director and associate professor at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) School of Nursing, has been selected as a 2026 Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) - one of the highest professional honors in nurse anesthesiology.

Dr. Rabe is among 42 nationally recognized nurse anesthesiology leaders chosen for this class of fellows. The honor recognizes individuals for their contributions to leadership, education, research, clinical practice, and service. Induction of the new fellows will take place during the AANA Annual Congress, Aug. 21-25, 2026, in Boston, Massachusetts.

AANA fellows must demonstrate at least a decade of professional experience and a record of leadership that commands national respect. Through leadership in nurse anesthesia education at UTMB, Rabe has played a key role in preparing the next generation of certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs).

"Dr. Rabe's recognition as an AANA fellow reflects her exceptional leadership in nurse anesthesia education and practice, along with her commitment to advancing the profession," said Kristen Starnes-Ott, PhD, dean of the School of Nursing. "Through her leadership, she is preparing highly skilled CRNAs who will make a meaningful impact on patient care across healthcare delivery settings. We are proud to support her contributions and celebrate this well-deserved national recognition."

With this honor, Dr. Rabe joins nearly 300 CRNAs nationwide who have earned the distinction of fellow of the AANA. Fellows are recognized not only for professional achievement, but also for meaningful contributions that strengthen healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes, and elevate the role of nurse anesthesiology across diverse care settings.

Dr. Rabe, who earned Master of Science in nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees from Texas Christian University, is a PhD candidate at Texas Woman's University. She was named DAISY Educator of the Year and received an Excellence in Nursing Award from the Good Samaritan Foundation, both in 2025.

As advanced practice registered nurses, CRNAs provide anesthesia care in every clinical environment where anesthesia is delivered and serve as primary anesthesia providers in rural and underserved communities, as well as in military and disaster response settings.

"This recognition is especially meaningful as I work to model for the next generation of CRNA leaders at UTMB the importance of service, engagement, and dedication to our profession," Dr. Rabe said. "I hope it reinforces for our students that leadership is not simply a role, but a responsibility - one that shapes the future of patient care and professional practice."