August 9, 2021
Dear OADN Members:
Earlier this year I wrote a brief article for Teaching and Learning in Nursing on leadership qualities where I stated, “In the face of constant change and under incredible pressure nursing leaders have the responsibility to be the steadfast beacon for others to follow.” Nowhere is that more important than in nursing education. At the same time, the OADN Board of Directors indicated their renewed commitment to the development of leadership offerings for our members. That led to the creation of the variety of opportunities outlined below that are available now and into 2022. I encourage you to consider how the OADN leadership development portfolio can support your leadership journey.
The Summer leadership webinar series has been a big hit! Monkey Business: The Fine Art of Mentoring, was a great success. Panelists Karen LaMartina (Member, OADN Board of Directors) and Janalee Issacson engaged participants with wonderful examples and stories of their mentoring experiences. Engaging in Critical Conversations, with Catherine Miller and Shelly Malin, was met with similar enthusiasm as the speakers identified strategies and practical steps participants could apply in their own environment. Webinar slides, speaker contact information and additional resources are posted on the OADN website.
Last month, CEO Donna Meyer provided a high-level overview of the stellar workshops and sessions that will be offered at the annual convention, The Power of Nursing Education to Move Beyond 2020. A pre-conference leadership development workshop, Your Leadership Journey: Invest in Yourself, will be held on Thursday, November 18th. This day-long program geared towards emerging leaders includes sessions on advocacy, professional identity, civility, mentorship, and developing self for long-term success. I am honored to facilitate this workshop with nationally recognized speakers, Suzanne Miyamoto, Janis Bellack, Nelda Godfrey, Lorie Judson, Cecelia Crawford (and more!) who are eager to share their expertise and inspiration as you map your authentic leadership journey.
Lastly, OADN is pleased to announce a Leadership Development Institute that will be available to members in early 2022. The Institute, designed as a 5-month cohort-based online development program, for education directors and faculty seeking opportunities to enhance their leadership competencies and skills. Participants will engage in content-rich virtual seminars, monthly round table discussions, peer-to-peer coaching calls and a mentorship experience. More information will be available at convention.
I hope this inspires you to visualize your unique leadership path. There is no time like the present to take the first step in making that vision a reality. Please feel free to reach out to me or plan to stop by the OADN Booth for the chance to meet and learn more about these wonderful new resources!
My very best,
Mary Dickow, MPA, FAAN
Director of Leadership Development
mary.dickow@OADN.org