SOHN History

The Society of Otorhinolaryngology Head-Neck Nurses (SOHN) is the nationally recognized specialty nursing organization dedicated to the advancement of otorhinolaryngology (ORL) nursing practice.

SOHN was officially established in 1976 during a charter meeting held in Las Vegas, Nevada, in conjunction with the American Academy of Otolaryngology’s annual meeting. The founding steering committee included Joan Bilger, Nan Sundquist, Tina Mitschke, Terri Masci, and Sandye Schwartz, who provided the early leadership and vision that shaped the organization. Tina Mitschke, the Society’s first president, led a group of 46 pioneering ORL nurses who laid the foundation for what has become a thriving professional community.

Since its inception, SOHN has continually advanced the goals set forth by its founders. At the heart of the organization’s mission is a steadfast commitment to excellence in ORL and head and neck patient care that is a priority that remains central to SOHN's work today.

From its humble beginnings at the 1976 charter meeting, the SOHN has grown into a vibrant professional organization with approximately 500 members across 33 states and 4 countries. Of the total membership, 265 are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), 220 are registered nurses (RNs), and 10 are licensed practical nurses (LPNs).  SOHN’s reach includes 19 active local and regional chapters, providing members with valuable opportunities for localized networking, education, and collaboration.

In addition, SOHN supports nine highly active Special Interest Groups (SIGs) that represent key subspecialties within ORL nursing practice. These include:

• Advanced Practice
• Allergy/Sinus
• Head and Neck
• Federal/Military
• Office-Based Clinical Practice
• Operating Room
• Otology
• Pediatric
• Gerontology and Facial Plastics

These SIGs are highly valued by SOHN members for the specialized learning, peer collaboration, and professional development they offer within focused areas of interest. Through these groups, SOHN continues to foster clinical excellence and strong professional networks across the spectrum of ORL nursing.

In 1993, SOHN launched a national certification program to formally recognize registered nurses (RNs) who demonstrate proficiency in otorhinolaryngology (ORL) nursing practice. This certification, available to nurses with at least three years of experience in caring for ORL and/or head and neck patients, affirms clinical expertise and professional commitment in this specialized field.

To date, more than 600 RNs and APRNs have successfully earned the credential CORLN® (Certified Otorhinolaryngology Nurse) by completing the rigorous national certification exam. Certification is valid for five years, with recertification required either through continuing education or re-examination to ensure ongoing professional growth and competency.

In 1997, SOHN established the Ear, Nose, and Throat Nursing Foundation (ENT-NF) to further support the mission of advancing ORL nursing through education, research, and scholarship. The Foundation strengthens the educational and scientific endeavors of the Society, while also providing funding for nursing scholarships, research grants, and named lectureships that promote excellence in specialized areas of practice.

Annual lectureships sponsored by the ENT-NF include:

• The Lois Moore Rogers Lectureship in Pediatric Nursing
• The Cynthia S. Mabry Otolaryngic Allergy Lectureship
• The Sandra L. Schwartz Keynote Lectureship

Through these initiatives, SOHN and ENT-NF continue to foster leadership, innovation, and excellence in ORL nursing for the benefit of patients and communities. 

In 2026, SOHN will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its founding, which is a significant milestone that honors five decades of leadership, innovation, and excellence in ORL nursing.

Since its establishment in 1976 during the charter meeting in Las Vegas, SOHN has grown into the premier specialty nursing organization devoted to advancing the care of patients with ear, nose, throat, and head-neck conditions. Over the past 50 years, SOHN has remained steadfast in its mission to support nurses through high-quality education, certification, mentorship, and advocacy. The organization’s longevity and impact are a testament to the dedication of its founding members, past leaders, and the vibrant community of nurses who continue to shape the future of otorhinolaryngology nursing.

Past SOHN Presidents