Our Story
Founded in 1974
In the mid-1950s, Dr. Madeleine Leininger emerged as a pioneering leader in establishing transcultural nursing as a vital area of study and practice. By 1966, formal programs of study were underway, laying the foundation for a new discipline.
In 1974–75, under Dr. Leininger’s leadership, nurses and other professionals dedicated to advancing research, education, and practice in this emerging field founded the Transcultural Nursing Society (TCNS) at the University of Utah. One of the early goals was to establish a central office to serve as the Society’s hub. That vision was realized on May 8, 2001, when the Central Office was dedicated at Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan, where we proudly resided for many years.
In 2018, TCNS transitioned to a virtual framework, reflecting the Society’s global reach and modern communication needs. At the same time, the Central Office was relocated to a site near our original home at Madonna University, maintaining continuity with our roots while embracing new ways to connect worldwide.
The Central Office, led by an Executive Director of Operations and guided by the Board of Trustees, serves as the hub of the Transcultural Nursing Society. It oversees all programs and ensures the successful implementation of initiatives approved by the Board of Trustees, working closely with expert members who contribute their knowledge and leadership.
This structure ensures that TCNS programs are carried out with excellence, inclusivity, and the active involvement of members who bring expertise from across the field of transcultural nursing.
Since its founding, TCNS has hosted annual conferences addressing contemporary issues and practices in transcultural nursing. These gatherings have taken place across the United States and internationally in Finland, the Netherlands, Canada, Spain, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Regional conferences, organized by chapters and local groups, also address nurses' specialized interests. A hallmark of TCNS conferences is their openness: nurses and professionals worldwide are invited to network, share, and engage in meaningful dialogue on transcultural nursing issues.
Journal of Transcultural Nursing
In 1989, TCNS launched the Journal of Transcultural Nursing (JTCN), the Society’s official publication. The journal quickly became a leading resource for theoretical, research, and practice-based scholarship in transcultural nursing. Today, it is published by SAGE Publications, translated into multiple languages, and accessed globally.
- The editorial leadership of the JTCN reflects the Society’s commitment to excellence:
- Dr. Madeleine Leininger served as the first Editor, establishing the journal’s foundation and vision.
- In 1995, Dr. Marilyn McFarland was appointed Editor, continuing to advance the journal’s scholarly contributions.
- In 1998, Dr. Marty Douglas became Editor, guiding the journal for many years and bringing significant recognition to its work.
- Dr. Douglas retired in 2014, and Dr. Norma Cuellar succeeded her, expanding the journal’s reach and impact until her retirement in 2024.
- In 2024, Dr. Mei R. Fu was appointed Editor, ushering in a new era of growth and innovation for the journal.
The JTCN now publishes six issues annually, with online archives dating back to its inception in 1989.
Scholars Program - Fellows of the Transcultural Nursing Society (FTNSS)
On October 8, 2004, the first group of Transcultural Nursing Scholars was inducted. This program honors individuals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in advancing transcultural nursing and healthcare through research, education, practice, and administration at regional, national, and global levels. Scholars actively serve the Society, promoting its mission and values.
Certification has been a cornerstone of TCNS since 1988, when the first cadre of 28 nurses earned the designation of Certified Transcultural Nurse (CTN). In the early 2000s, a Certification Task Force reviewed the process, leading to the establishment of a Certification Commission in 2006.
• CTN-A (Advanced Exam): Piloted in 2009 and implemented in 2010
• CTN-B (Basic Exam): Piloted in 2012 and now available
Certification ensures a valid, reliable process for recognizing nurses committed to culturally competent care. TCNS continues to encourage nurses worldwide to pursue certification as a mark of excellence.
Looking Ahead
From its beginnings under Dr. Leininger’s vision to its global presence today, the Transcultural Nursing Society has remained steadfast in its mission: advancing culturally competent and equitable healthcare for all people. With the support of our distinguished members and partners, we look forward to many more accomplishments in the years ahead.
In 2025, the Transcultural Nursing Society was honored to be granted Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). This recognition strengthens our global voice and affirms our commitment to advancing culturally competent, equitable healthcare worldwide.
We invite you to join us in this mission—together, we can continue to shape a more inclusive, compassionate, and culturally congruent future in healthcare.