Ethel Johns

Ethel Johns, born in England in 1879 to Welsh parents, made significant contributions to the nursing profession in Canada. In 1888, she immigrated to Ontario with her father, a missionary, and later pursued her nursing education at the Winnipeg General Hospital Training School, graduating in 1902. After her graduation, she began her nursing career in Winnipeg, where she also attended Columbia University's teachers college.

Upon returning to Winnipeg, Johns took on the role of superintendent at the Winnipeg Children's Hospital. In 1919, she relocated to British Columbia, where she became the director of nursing services and education at the Vancouver General Hospital. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in establishing the nursing program at the University of British Columbia, creating the first university degree program in nursing in Canada.

From 1925 to 1929, Johns served as an advisor for the development of nursing schools in Eastern Europe. Her commitment to nursing education continued as she became the editor of The Canadian Nurse from 1933 to 1944. During her time with the Rockefeller Foundation, she authored a report advocating for enhanced educational and employment opportunities for African-American nurses.

Johns retired in 1944 and passed away in Vancouver in 1968. Her legacy was recognized in 2009 when she was named a Person of National Historic Significance. Ethel Johns is celebrated for her efforts in advancing nursing as a respected profession and championing equality for women in education and employment. The Ethel Johns Award, presented annually by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing, honors her distinguished service to nursing education in Canada.