On March 26, 2025, during a meeting of the Professional Governance Oversight Council, a powerful moment unfolded, one made possible by years of dedication, ownership, and nurse-driven excellence. Surrounded by representatives from units across the medical center, nurses gathered around the screen and, together, pressed the button that officially submitted Kaiser Permanente Redwood City Medical Center’s application to become an ANCC Magnet® applicant organization.

This milestone belonged to them.

While Magnet designation is often associated with organizational achievement, the real story at KP Redwood City is centered on the nurses who have shaped our professional practice environment from the ground up. Their work, reflected in nursing unit councils, interdisciplinary collaboration, research and EBP projects, certification achievements, and countless practice changes, formed the foundation that made the Magnet journey possible.

As the room filled with applause, pride, and a sense of shared accomplishment, it became clear that this moment symbolized far more than the start of a formal application process. It honored the nurses who show up with compassion, curiosity, and expertise every day; the councils that champion meaningful change; and the professional governance structure that ensures frontline voices lead the way.

Our journey toward Magnet is just beginning, but our foundation is already strong, because it has been built by the hands and hearts of our nurses.