Lillian B. Patterson

The driving force behind many of the major progressive initiatives at WSNA from the early 1940s until her untimely death in 1954

The driving force behind many of the major progressive initiatives at WSNA from the early 1940s until her untimely death in 1954. She was a leader in both the Counseling and Placement Service and the WSNA Economic Security Program. She was Dean of the University of Washington School of Nursing and served as President of WSNA from 1948-1950. She was elected to two terms as ANA First Vice President and as a delegate to the International Council of Nursing. She was also appointed by President Truman as Special Advisor to the World Health Organization.


The leading voice and advocate for nurses in Washington

WSNA provides representation, education and resources that allow nurses to reach their full professional potential and focus on caring for patients. WSNA has represented nurses in our state since 1908, leveraging our collective voice to successfully advocate with employers, state agencies and the state Legislature for better working conditions, safe staffing, fair compensation and patient safety. For more than 110 years, WSNA has championed issues that support nurses, advance professional standards and improve the health of individuals and families in Washington.


The Washington State Nurses Association is affiliated with

Washington State Nurses Association
575 Andover Park West, Suite 101
Seattle, WA 98188

Contact us


Washington State Nurses Association is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.

Washington State Nurses Association, WSNA, and related logos are registered trademarks of the Washington State Nurses Association and may not be used without prior written permission.
© 2005-2026. All rights reserved. Privacy policy