Linda Burnes Bolton, M.N. '72, M.P.H. '76, Dr.P.H. '88

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Linda Burnes Bolton, M.N. '72, M.P.H. '76, Dr.P.H. '88, passed away Jan. 11 at her home in Los Angeles. She was 76.

In an online obituary, the UCLA School of Nursing said,

She credits her experiences at UCLA Nursing for igniting her passion for community health. Her distinguished career at Cedars-Sinai’s Department of Nursing is a testament to her commitment to improving access to health care and advancing nursing practice.

Throughout her more than 50 years in nursing, Dr. Burnes Bolton served as the president of several high-impact professional organizations, including the American Academy of Nursing, the National Black Nurses Association, and the American Organization of Nurse Executives Board of Directors. Professionally, she began her nursing career at Cedars-Sinai as a staff nurse in 1971, rising through the ranks to eventually become Cedars’ Chief Nursing Officer and vice president for nursing.

She had been the recipient of numerous awards, including the American Academy of Nursing’s 2022 Lifetime Legacy Award, the American Organization of Nurse Executives’ Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 2016 Professional Achievement Award from UCLA. She was also named a 2016 Living Legend by the American Academy of Nursing and was inducted into the National Academy of Medicine in 2015.

On their Facebook page, Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing posted this tribute:

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Luminary Fellow Dr. Linda Burnes Bolton trailblazing leader and beloved 6th President of the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA). Dr. Burnes Bolton’s extraordinary vision, compassion, and unwavering dedication reshaped the nursing profession, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

From creating the NBNA Community Health Collaboration Model to championing diversity in nursing, her impact is immeasurable. She devoted her life to uplifting Black nurses and addressing healthcare inequities in underserved communities.

We extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. May her legacy of service, excellence, and empowerment live on in all of us.