This article appeared in the November/December 2011 issue of The American Journal For Nurse Practitioners. “For changing the healthcare paradigm, and for changing lives, you, Loretta C. Ford, are inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame.” With those words, the founding mother of the nurse practitioner movement was acknowledged for her leadership, innovation, pioneering spirit, and sheer tenacity. It was a fabulous moment for my friend, colleague, and mentor, Loretta “Lee” Ford, EdD, PNP, FAAN, FAANP, and a truly momentous occasion for the entire NP profession. For me, it was a time to honor a woman I respect and admire and to witness the next step in the recognition of a profession that is changing the way that health care is delivered in the United States and around the world—a profession that is tremendously important to me and to all NPs.