After the first National Cancer Nursing Research Conference in 1973, 20 oncology nurses discussed the need for a national organization to support their profession. The Oncology Nursing Society was created after this initial meeting. These 20 nurses used word-of-mouth to spark interest among their colleagues to launch this organization.

Over the years, we have grown to include more than 35,000 members and are now known as the standards bearer of advanced cancer care.

Through ONS, cancer caregivers at any point on the clinical ladder are able to advance their learning and careers, understand and contribute to oncology science and best practices, advocate for their profession, and ultimately advance our cause—to continuously improve the quality of cancer care and the lives of every nurse who provides it.