Start Preparing for the Best Convention of the Year

This year we will be celebrating the 2025 OADN Convention, November 20 to 22 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Convention’s theme, Elevating Nursing Education: Embracing Change, Strengthening Community, reflects the rapidly evolving landscape of nursing education and the critical role of collaboration, resilience, and innovation in ensuring student and faculty success.

As ADN educators, we play a crucial role in shaping the future of nursing. To stay updated, we must continually expand our knowledge and seek opportunities to enhance our teaching. One of the most impactful ways to achieve this is by attending the OADN Convention. While you may hesitate due to the financial cost or time commitment, attending the Convention is not an expense—it is an investment in oneself, one’s students, and ADN education.

The OADN Convention offers a wealth of opportunities, including professional development, exposure to fresh teaching strategies, and networking. Designed to enhance leadership as an ADN educator, workshops and breakout sessions support attendees in both faculty and administrative roles. Convention empowers educators to refine their teaching methods, implement best practices, and develop the confidence needed to drive curriculum improvements and policy advocacy.

Featured Speakers

This year’s unparalleled lineup of featured speakers includes leading voices in nursing education, innovation, and leadership. They bring expertise that will inspire and equip ADN educators with practical strategies for success.

• Rebecca Love, RN, BS, MSN, FIEL – A renowned nurse entrepreneur and healthcare innovator, Rebecca will explore the future of AI in nursing and nursing education and the transformative role of nurse-led innovation.
• Danielle McCamey, DNP, ACNP-BC, FCCP, FAAN – A leader in mentorship and community-building, Danielle will speak on the power of leadership and mentorship in strengthening the ADN educator community.
• Rear Admiral (Ret.) Aisha Brooks, DNP, MPH, RN, FAAN – Retired Chief Nurse Officer and Former Deputy Surgeon General of the U.S. Public Health Service, RADM Brooks will discuss the impact of Associate Degree Nurses in public and community health.
• Cherie Rebar, PhD, MBA, RN, CNE, CNEcl, CLNC, COI, FAADN & Nicole Heimgartner, DNP, RN, CNE, CNEcl, COI, FAADN – Returning by popular demand, Cherie and Nicole will tackle the widening gap between nursing education and practice-readiness.
• Beth Toner, MSN, RN, MJ, MFA – Beth, who serves as Director of Program Communications for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and is an ADN nurse herself, will lead an expert panel on the importance of allyship in nursing and nursing education.
• Tina Loarte-Rodriguez, DNP, RN, CPPS, CPHRM – A passionate advocate for healthy communities, Tina will share inspiring stories of determination, resilience, and trust and their importance within the ADN community.
• Steve Viger, PhD – As Deputy Chief Officer of Examinations for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Steve will provide eagerly anticipated updates on the NCLEX exam.

Networking is Essential

One of the most valuable aspects of attending the OADN Convention is the opportunity to network with others with a vested interest in ADN education. Convention events provide a forum for educators to share experiences, discuss challenges, and exchange solutions. Engaging with experienced ADN educators could inspire you to take on leadership roles within your institution and the broader nursing education community. Whether presenting at a future Convention, participating on an OADN committee, or writing to academic publications, these opportunities for growth stem from the connections you can make at Convention.

The Exhibit Hall — one of my favorite places — is a treasure trove of resources. It features vendors highlighting the latest advancements in educational technology, textbooks, simulation equipment, and other instructional tools. Engaging with exhibitors allows you to explore new teaching aids, compare products, and even participate in demonstrations that can inform purchasing decisions. Many exhibitors offer discounts and early access to new products to Convention attendees. And if you complete your attendance card- you could win a prize!

Relax, Recharge and Reconnect — Beyond the professional and educational benefits, attending the Convention provides a much-needed opportunity for you to relax, recharge, and enjoy time with other ADN educators and nursing leaders. Whether you mingle between sessions, explore Nashville, or simply share a meal, the experience fosters community and strengthens relationships. This sense of connection can help you maintain enthusiasm and find renewed inspiration.

Plan Your Budget

While the time and financial commitment of attending the OADN Convention may seem daunting, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. Request that your administration support the nursing program through an investment in Convention attendance. Making your request early will help ensure they allocate the necessary funds. We have a template letter for you to customize to make your budget justification and travel request.

The OADN Convention is more than an academic gathering—it is a powerful investment in yourself, your leadership, and the future of nursing education. I hope to see you in Nashville in November!

Mariann Harding PhD, RN, CNE, FAADN
Treasurer, OADN Board of Directors