Anne Ruggiero: My Journey to Becoming a Fellow of ARN

Becoming a Fellow of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (FARN) is a significant achievement that recognizes dedication, expertise, and leadership in rehabilitation nursing. In this blog, Anne Ruggiero, BSN RN CRRN FARN, shares her inspiring journey—from her family's immigrant roots to her decision to apply for the prestigious credential. She reflects on the challenges, the encouragement she received, and the profound impact of earning the FARN designation. If you're considering applying, Anne's story offers valuable insights and motivation to take the next step.

Anne  Ruggiero: My Journey to Becoming a Fellow of ARN

I am a second-generation American, shaped by the resilience and determination of my ancestors. My Polish grandmother (Babcia) was born in the U.S. but spent her childhood and early education in Poland. My Polish grandfather (Dziadek) had only a second-grade education. My Lithuanian grandparents, who emigrated in the first wave of Eastern European immigrants, were illiterate in their native language. When they left in 1907, Lithuania wasn't even on the map.

All four of my grandparents worked tirelessly in labor jobs with the dream that their children would have better lives in the U.S. Their sacrifices paid off—while their children all graduated from high school, most of their grandchildren, including me, earned college degrees. Becoming a registered nurse like my mother was a moment of immense pride for my family. I credit my strength, persistence, and passion for advocacy to them.

Why I Applied to Become a FARN

Two years before I applied, I reviewed the FARN requirements but hesitated because I didn't have a graduate degree. At the 2023 ARN Conference in Rhode Island, a fellow member and FARN encouraged me to apply. I thought about it for a long time, and when the application window opened, I took the leap.

I reached out to that same member for guidance—she reviewed my CV and walked me through each requirement. With the support of another ARN member and incredibly encouraging sponsors, I submitted my application. In reviewing my CV, I was amazed at everything I had accomplished in my 34 years as a nurse. I had put all my eggs in one basket, and I knew I would be devastated if I wasn't accepted.

What the FARN Credential Means to Me

When I fully realized my accomplishments, I was stunned. As a new nurse, my goal was simple: to be the best bedside nurse I could be. That commitment still grounds me today. Every bit of education, experience, and every path I've taken has strengthened my ability to provide exceptional physical care, emotional support, and education to my patients. It has also empowered me to advocate for their ever-changing needs through public policy efforts.

Being recognized as a FARN is truly a dream come true. My colleagues and peers appreciate my expertise, particularly in skilled nursing and long-term care. Perhaps most humbling, I discovered that I had been serving as a mentor long before my official induction.

Encouraging Others to Apply

If you're considering applying for FARN, reach out to someone who has been through the process. We can offer guidance, review your CV, and provide an objective perspective. Maybe you're already prepared—or maybe there are a few more steps you can take to expand your experience. Either way, start asking for guidance early.

FARNs are an integral part of ARN. We support each other, and we are here to support you, too! 

Applying for Fellowship 

If you're considering applying, Anne's story offers valuable insights and motivation to take the next step. See eligibility requirements and more. Applications accepted through March 1, 2025.

About Anne 

Anne Ruggiero, BSN RN CRRN FARN, has dedicated 35 years to the nursing profession, with a career spanning multiple areas of patient care. She began as a staff and charge nurse in a hospital specializing in inpatient rehabilitation and chronic care before transitioning to critical care for three and a half years. However, her true passion emerged in skilled nursing (SNF) and long-term care (LTC), where she has spent over 27 years making a profound impact.

In SNF and LTC settings, Anne has achieved some of her most meaningful professional accomplishments. Working with limited facility technology, she relies on fundamental assessment skills to provide high-quality care, often preventing hospitalizations through her expertise and clinical judgment. Her hands-on approach and deep understanding of patient needs have solidified her reputation as a dedicated and skilled nursing professional.

From 1990 to 2022, Anne held various roles, including charge/resource nurse, rapid response team member, case manager, and admissions liaison. In 2022, she embraced a new challenge by becoming a case manager for a large physician group, where she focuses on patient education and empowerment. In this role, she helps individuals recognize their health knowledge deficits and guides them in developing self-management plans to improve their well-being.

Anne remains committed to staying current with evidence-based practices, advocating for improved healthcare policies, and navigating CMS guidelines to ensure the highest quality of care for her patients. Her passion for patient advocacy and lifelong learning continues to drive her work in rehabilitation and long-term care nursing.