Following a legacy person is a daunting task! Dr Suzanne Smith, RN, FAAN, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Nursing Administration (JONA) for 30 years, has served the nursing profession on a multitude of levels. Dr Smith may be "retiring" from her role with JONA (producing 11 dynamic issues a year and a Web site); however, she is phasing into retirement by continuing to perform her second role as editor-in-chief of the journal Nurse Educator. As an editor, Dr Smith has influenced the political, social, contextural, and educational direction of nursing leadership and practice. Thanks to Dr Smith, JONA is recognized as 19th of 70 impact journals in the 2009 nursing journal citation report, a demonstration of the value to nursing leaders, educators, practitioner, and others.
Suzanne has been a mentor to me as a writer and friend for many years and, now, as a consulting editor. She believes that editors should convey their passion by providing structure and process, but the message of authors must be allowed to convey their passion to the reader. Her stance in diverse presentation of issues has supported this belief. Suzanne's outgoing, energetic, and strong personality, along with an amazing and quick sense of humor, has provided the foundation for creative interchanges with authors, both novice and experienced, as well as a multitude of students and nurse leaders hoping for a first publication. This interchange and investment in the development of others have happened whether the author has been successfully published or "gently rejected." JONA is such a well regarded and popular journal that 80% of the submissions received do not move to publication!
As a reader, you can be assured you are getting the best! Authors from around the world have been educated and guided by Dr Smith in writing and revising submissions. Her expertise and knowledgeable support often include suggestions to improve a submission for other journals if deemed not appropriate for JONA's readership. Dr Smith has received accolades from numerous authors who have credited her with their first publication in a peer-reviewed journal or thanks for the guidance to improve a good draft. Suzanne is often praised for her quick responsiveness, cutting-edge suggestions, and analysis of issues and complexities that provide the most current information for her readers.
She relayed to me that "Journal editors serve readers by giving them the facts, all the facts, and trusting that the readership is smart enough to critically analyze the data and form their own opinions." Thanks to you for trusting us with this knowledge, Dr Smith, but above all, thanks for your leadership in setting the course for nursing leaders for generations, past, and future. JONA is well respected and valued because of you and your high standards for nursing leaders, your skills in guiding professional publications, and your scholarship and commitment to nursing. You are a tough act to follow!
Karen S. Hill, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE
Editor-in-Chief
[email protected]