The Transformative Role of Associate Degree Nursing

As September begins, I am reminded of the important role associate degree nursing education plays in creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and preparing the next generation of registered nurses.

The Organization for Associate Degree Nursing serves as the national voice and a pivotal resource for community college nursing education and the associate degree pathway. Through leadership, collaboration, advocacy, faculty development, and support for academic progression, OADN remains committed to advancing excellence in nursing education and ensuring that the associate degree continues to be a respected and accessible entry point into professional nursing practice.

Supporting First-Generation College Students

Many of the students entering our programs are first-generation college students. They arrive with aspirations that extend far beyond earning a degree. They are working to change the direction of their lives, improve the financial security of their families, and become healthcare professionals who will serve the very communities in which they were raised.

Their journey is rarely easy. Many balance employment, family responsibilities, financial hardship, and the demanding expectations of nursing school while continuing to pursue their goal of becoming registered nurses.

A Beginning, Not an Ending

For these students, an associate degree is not the end of their educational journey. It is a strong beginning steppingstone toward lifelong learning, professional advancement, leadership, and graduate education.

OADN supports pathways that allow associate degree nurses to enter practice, serve their communities, and continue progressing toward baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Every educational achievement should open the door to the next opportunity.

Nursing Education as a Pathway to Economic Stability

This mission is especially important in today’s changing economy. The cost of housing, food, transportation, childcare, and other necessities continues to place significant pressure on individuals and families. Poverty and financial insecurity are increasing in many of the communities served by associate degree nursing programs.

Becoming a registered nurse can provide a substantial financial boost, greater employment stability, access to benefits, and opportunities for long-term career growth. A nursing education can change not only the life of the graduate but also the future of an entire family.

Diez y Seis de Septiembre: Courage, Identity, and Opportunity

September also offers an opportunity to recognize Diez y Seis de Septiembre, the commemoration of Mexico’s struggle for independence. This observance holds deep cultural meaning throughout the Southwest Region and beyond. It represents courage, determination, identity, and the pursuit of a better future.

These same qualities are reflected in many of our students, particularly those whose families have overcome cultural, educational, economic, and generational barriers in search of a better way of life.

A Father’s Belief in the Power of Education

This message is personal to me. My father was unable to complete his high school diploma, but he understood the transformational power of education. He repeatedly encouraged my sister and me to obtain as much education as possible because, as he told us, education would open doors.

His words remained with me throughout my journey from vocational nursing to registered nursing and ultimately to doctoral education. The opportunities I have received are a testament to his wisdom, his sacrifices, and his belief in what education could make possible.

OADN’s Commitment to Faculty and Students

As Director of the Southwest Region, I have learned over the past two years that OADN’s commitment extends far beyond promoting the associate degree pathway. OADN is focused on supporting nursing faculty, empowering students, advocating for community college nursing programs, developing future leaders, and creating pathways for continued professional and academic growth.

This work strengthens our programs and helps ensure that students from every background have an opportunity to enter the nursing profession and advance as far as their abilities and aspirations will take them.

Gratitude for Those Who Open Doors

To the educators, administrators, clinical partners, and advocates who serve associate degree nursing students: thank you. Your work creates opportunities, changes family legacies, and strengthens the nursing workforce.

Every student you encourage, mentor, and prepare represents another door opened—not only for that student, but also for the patients, families, and communities that nurse will one day serve.

Moving Forward Together

Let us continue to safeguard and advance the associate degree pathway as an essential, respected, and life-changing entry into professional nursing. Together, through the mission and leadership of OADN, we can ensure that opportunity remains within reach and that every aspiring nurse has a pathway to education, service, and professional growth.

In November, we will gather in my hometown of San Antonio, Texas, for the 2026 OADN Annual Convention. This year’s theme is Empowering the ADN Educator: Flourishing with Strength and Sustainability. Recognize that OADN Annual Convention is the only national conference exclusively dedicated to addressing the needs of associate degree nursing programs.

I invite you to join us as we network, collaborate, celebrate OADN’s accomplishments, and explore new and innovative ways to strengthen and sustain the associate degree nursing education pathway.

As my tenure as Director of the Southwest Region comes to an end, I remain committed to advancing OADN’s mission and priorities. I also look forward to supporting the incoming Southwest Regional Director in any way that I can as this important work continues.

San Antonio’s famous River Walk awaits you, and I hope to see you in November!

Daniel B. Flores Jr., DNP, MSN/ED, BSN, RN
Southwest Regional Director
OADN