Karen Donato Chosen as 2026 Oncology Certified Nurse of the Year

The Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC®) has named Karen Donato, BSN, RN, OCN®, as the 2026 Oncology Certified Nurse of the Year. Donato is a recently retired Assistant Nurse Manager at the University Hospitals of Cleveland Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, Ohio.

Karen exemplifies excellence in oncology nursing through her dedication to patient care, advocacy, and leadership.

Karen has devoted her career to supporting individuals and families facing cancer, demonstrating compassion, clinical expertise, and advocacy in every interaction. She has presented nationally on numerous oncology topics and has educated Congressional lawmakers on oncology patient challenges and the Oncology Care Model. Since earning OCN certification in 1996, Karen has championed certification among peers and educated patients on its value. She has been instrumental in numerous policies and procedures, quality improvement initiatives, and evidence-based practice changes.

Donato shared, “Hold fast to the ideals that first called you to this profession and never, never lose your compassion.”

Donato’s award was presented during the ONCC Recognition Breakfast for Oncology Certified Nurses on May 15 in San Antonio, Texas, during the ONS Congress.

ONCC provides the premier, nationally accredited certifications for registered nurses in oncology and related specialties. Certification promotes health and safety by validating competence and ensuring lifelong learning in these fields. More than 41,000 nurses are certified by ONCC in adult oncology, pediatric hematology oncology, breast care, or transplantation and cellular therapy nursing. Learn more at www.oncc.org.