Preparing the next generation of nurse leaders and innovators: Betty Irene Moore Fellowship overview and special issue introduction

The Betty Irene Moore Fellowship for Nurse Leaders and Innovators accelerates preparation of the next generation of diverse leaders and innovators in nursing, with a goal to improve care and advance health across diverse settings and communities, in research, practice, education, policy, and entrepreneurship. This introductory paper synopsizes the development and design of the fellowship, describes program elements and the community of scholars, and provides context for this special issue. Cultivating the next generation of nurse leaders and innovators is vital to the future of our profession and the health of our population. Too often, nurses at all levels assume leadership positions without sufficient preparation and support. Given current and evolving demands, it is essential to accelerate capacity with intention and investment. The fellowship community of scholars collaboratively prepared this special issue, highlighting important themes that evolved during the leadership and innovation journey of the Betty Irene Moore Fellows.