We, the undersigned nursing staff at Roswell Park, interdisciplinary team members and community partners, respectfully express our concern regarding the removal of Andrew Storer from the Chief Nursing Officer role.

We recognize that leadership decisions are complex; however, this physician-led decision occurred without visible nursing involvement. This raises serious concern about the role of nursing in executive decision-making, including the future of nursing practice, scope, and whether nursing will continue to have a meaningful seat at the table.

Under Andrew Storer’s leadership, the organization achieved significant, measurable improvements that directly impact quality, finance, and national reputation, including:

-Advancement of nursing-sensitive quality outcomes (falls, CLABSI, pressure injuries) from below benchmark to sustained performance above benchmark
-Reduction of agency nursing costs from over $5 million annually to under $100,000, while improving care through a stabilized internal workforce
-Elevation of nursing retention to top-performing levels nationally among peer institutions
-Achievement and sustainment of high patient satisfaction, with inpatient experience ranking among the top nationally
-Achievement of Magnet designation and national recognition, including Beacon designation and a nationally accredited nurse residency program through the American Nurses Credentialing Center
-Establishment of innovative care models (primary nursing/oncology nurse coordinator) improving care coordination, reducing unnecessary physician escalation, and strengthening nursing scope of practice

These outcomes reflect not only strong leadership, but a clear strategic direction for nursing that is now at risk.

We are also hearing concerns from regional and professional partners regarding the impact of this transition on partnerships, program continuity, and the broader nursing community.

We are concerned about the potential impact on sustaining Magnet standards, which rely on strong, visible, and consistent nursing leadership, as well as the long-term trajectory of nursing within the organization.

In light of these concerns, we respectfully request:

-Reinstatement of Andrew Storer as Chief Nursing Officer
-Transparency regarding leadership decisions
-Active involvement of the nursing department in the selection of the next Chief Nursing Officer
-Clear communication on how nursing voice, scope of practice, and professional governance will be protected moving forward

This petition reflects our commitment to strong nursing leadership, staff engagement, and excellence in patient care. Addressing these concerns is essential to maintaining trust within the workforce and confidence in the organization’s future.