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OADN Voices: February Leadership Message

Cultivating Moments That Matter with the OADN Leadership Institute

Dear OADN Members,

A book I am currently reading, The Power of Moments by Chip and Dan Heath, inspired my thinking about this leadership message. In the book, the authors discuss strategies to create meaningful moments rather than leaving them to chance. The strategies noted in the book support increasing impact by intentionally creating “moments of elevation, insight, pride, and connection.” Reflecting on the readings and strategies shared in the book, I see opportunities to create moments that matter in leading Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) education, particularly regarding academic nurse leadership development.

Recently published nursing literature describing the urgency of the workforce shortage of academic nurse leaders and the need for leadership competency development (Apen et al., 2021; Birkhead et al., 2024; & NCSBN, 2023) got me excited about the opportunity offered through the OADN Leadership Institute. The structure and content covered through the OADN Leadership Institute include strategies to cultivate moments that matter while developing the leadership competencies identified in the published research that are needed for effective academic nurse leaders.

The OADN Leadership Institute creates connections through a community of learners in a cohort-based program of emerging nursing education directors and faculty. This program provides participants with competencies and skills to lead advances in ADN education. I encourage you to consider this unique program offering to explore your next steps to becoming a more confident, influential leader. For experienced nursing program directors, as part of program succession planning, consider sponsoring faculty to ensure quality nursing education during leadership transitions.

Highlights of the OADN Leadership Institute include:

  • Virtual seminars – ½ day (4 hours) sessions designed to advance participant’s skills and competencies
  • Creation of a personal leadership development plan – to set and track current and future goals
  • Mentorship Experience – participants will meet regularly with identified mentors

The application cycle for the next OADN Leadership Institute cohort is open through February 23, 2024: Apply Here!

For Leadership Institute questions, please contact Mary Dickow, Director of Leadership Development, at mary.dickow@oadn.org.

I am honored to be a part of OADN, an association actively committed to creating impact through meaningful moments in ADN education. As an OADN member or prospective member, I hope you will leverage the resources offered through OADN, including applying or sponsoring participation in the upcoming Leadership Institute cohorts.

As you progress through this academic term, I wish you continued success and many opportunities to cultivate moments that matter for you as a nurse leader, your ADN programs, and the students you serve.

With Gratitude,

Lynette V. Apen, DNP, RN, CNS, CNE
OADN President-elect

 

 

References:

Apen, L.V., Rosenblum, R., Solvason, N., & Chan, G.K. (2021). Nursing academic leadership: An urgent workforce shortage in nursing education. Nursing Education Perspectives, 42(5), 305-309. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.nep.0000000000000851

Birkhead, S., Edwards, P.A., Nettleton, M. B, Oppenlander, J., & Stapleton, M. (2024). Roles and skills for effective academic nurse leaders. Journal of the American Nurses Association – New York, 3(1), 22-32. https://doi.org/10.47988/january.28237684.3.1

Heath, C. & Heath, D. (2017). The Power of Moments. Simon & Schuster, New York, NY.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (2023). Environmental scan: Nursing at a crossroads- An opportunity for action. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 13(4), S1-S48. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2155-8256(23)00006-6

OADN Simulation Committee Honored with Society for Simulation in Healthcare’s 2024 Service in the Field of Virtual Simulation Award

The Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN) is pleased to announce that the OADN Simulation Committee has garnered the prestigious 2024 Service in the Field of Virtual Simulation Award from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH). SSH’s Virtual Simulation Section presented the award during the 2024 International Meeting on Simulation in Healthcare (IMSH) Conference held in San Diego, California.

This award recognizes those who have modeled dedication, investment, and contributions that have facilitated the utilization of Virtual Simulations. The OADN Simulation Committee, known for its commitment to advancing simulation education in nursing, has been recognized for its outstanding service and creation of the OADN Virtual Simulation Reviews, a partnership between OADN and Unbound Medicine.

“OADN is deeply honored that the committee’s innovative initiatives, dedication to excellence, and tireless efforts to enhance simulation practices in nursing education have earned them this esteemed accolade,” said OADN President Karen LaMartina, Ph.D., MSN, RN. “The OADN Board of Directors congratulates the Simulation Committee for this well-deserved honor. As OADN celebrates its 40th anniversary, this award reinforces the organization’s commitment to shaping the future of nursing education and embracing advancements in simulation technology and practices.”

“At the height of the pandemic, the OADN Simulation Committee’sOADN Virtual Simulation Reviews founding members recognized the critical need for virtual simulation options while clinical learning experiences were drastically reduced or completely unavailable,” added OADN Chief Executive Officer Rick García, Ph.D., RN, CCM, FAAOHN, FNYAM, FAADN. “The committee developed a systematic review of virtual simulation options using the Healthcare Simulation Standards of Best Practice (HSSOBP™), reviewed numerous products, and embarked on a campaign to educate nurse faculty on these standards and their application to virtual simulation products. We are all deeply proud of the committee’s accomplishments and record of service.”

OADN Simulation Committee Chair Janeen Berndt, DNP, RN, CNE, CHSE, ACNS-BC, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Receiving the 2024 Service in the Field of Virtual Simulation Award is a testament to the hard work and passion of our committee members. Early on, the committee decided that the resources we created should be broadly accessible to all nurse faculty who may need them. We remain dedicated to building nurse educators’ capacity to assess and utilize virtual simulation options for nursing programs.”

“The Virtual Simulation Reviews our committee developed were the first of their kind in health professions education,” noted committee member Elizabeth Robison, EdD, MSN, RN, CNE, CHSE-A. “The broad need for this resource created a platform for the committee’s other educational activities, including numerous webinars and conference presentations. Together, we have educated hundreds of faculty on the importance of the HSSOBP™ in all simulation modalities, as well as other critical issues such as diversity, equity, & inclusion in simulation and aligning simulation tools to the Next Generation NCLEX© exam.”

For more information about the OADN Simulation Committee and its initiatives, please visit the OADN Resource Library.

Several OADN Simulation Committee members gather at the 2023 OADN Convention in San Diego. Featured here (right to left): Anna Williams, MNSc, RN, CNE; Teresa Cooney, MSN, RN; Sami Rahman, RN, MEd, MSN; Tammy Schwabb, DNP, RN, CHSE; Liz Robison, EdD, MSN, RN, CNE, CHSE-A; Marci Dial, DNP, MSN, PMGT-BC, CHSE, LNC; and guest speaker Joanna A. Hall, MNSc, RN, CHSE.

Nursing Community Monthly Roundup – January 2024

OADN continues our federal advocacy on your behalf as a member of the Nursing Community Coalition, where we work to ensure that nurses are supported and that nursing education is funded.

NCC Statement on the Passing of Former Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson
On January 4, the Nursing Community Coalition (NCC) issued a statement honoring the life and legacy of former Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, who passed away at the age of 89. The NCC had the privilege of working with her in Congress as she advocated for nursing on Capitol Hill. Her legacy will continue to be an inspiration to all.

NCC Sends Letter to Congressional Leadership Outlining FY 2024 Continuing Resolution Funding Requests for Title VIII and NINR
On January 9, all sixty-three members of the Nursing Community Coalition (NCC) sent a letter to Congressional Leadership, as well as to House and Senate Appropriations Committees, requesting at least $302.472 million for Title VIII Nursing Workforce Development Programs and at least $197.693 million for the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) in fiscal year (FY) 2024, as outlined in the Senate Appropriations Committee passed bill. The NCC urged Congress to avoid a long-term continuing resolution (CR) and fully fund these critical programs.

NCC Sends Letter to in Opposition to H.R.3347/S.2070, the Protect Lifesaving Anesthesia Care for Veterans Act of 2023
On January 25, forty-one members of the Nursing Community Coalition (NCC) sent a letter outlining opposition to H.R.3347/S.2070, the Protect Lifesaving Anesthesia Care for Veterans Act of 2023. H.R.3347/S.2070 would unnecessarily, and unjustifiably, restrict access for our CRNAs within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), adversely impacting the health care of our nation’s veterans.

OADN Leadership Institute in 2024

NEW DATES ADDED!!

Don’t miss this opportunity to apply today!!

  * Applications are now being accepted for a NEW Cohort *

Seminar Dates

March 12, 2024

April 9, 2024

May 7, 2024

June 4, 2024

Applications Due: February 20, 2024

*Limited number of Partial Scholarships Available*

Now is the perfect time to explore your next steps to becoming a more confident, influential leader with this unique program!

OADN is pleased to announce additional opportunities to apply for this cohort-based program geared towards emerging nursing education faculty and directors with the purpose to enhance competencies and skills to lead advances in Associate Degree Nursing education.

Highlights of the program include:

  • Virtual seminars – ½ day (4 hours) sessions designed to advance participant’s skills and competencies
  • Creation of a personal leadership development plan – to set and track current and future goals
  • Mentorship Experience – participants will meet regularly with identified mentors

Questions?? Contact Mary Dickow, Director of Leadership Development at mary.dickow@oadn.org

The program provides an excellent opportunity to exchange wisdom, share perspectives, as well as practice giving and receiving feedback in a supportive environment. Participants engage in intersession activities, peer-to-peer interactions, receive reading assignments, resources, and tools to fine tune their leadership development activities, and focus on outside trends impacting the profession.

At the completion of the program participants will have gained essential experiences and critical leadership skills to advance their personal development and directly impact their programs, institutions, and communities.

Applications Due: February 20, 2024

Admission: 2 Cohorts up to 20 participants each

Tuition: $995* for OADN members / $1,495 for non-members (*Limited number of partial scholarships available to members only through the OADN Foundation)

Time Commitment: 4 hours a week over a 4-month period

For More Information Contact: Mary Dickow, Director of Leadership Development at mary.dickow@oadn.org

 

Online Application Instructions

This year’s application process is made possible by Trajecsys.com

 

 

Alumni Testimonials
“This Leadership Institute has been such a blessing! I appreciate the connections that you have given us it has opened so many doors. My mentor and I plan to continue to meet over the summer. The program has inspired me to get more involved with OADN and I would love to be a mentor to be able to guide someone as much as I received guidance in this program. ” – Chasya Wiseman, DNP, RN, CMSRN – Associate Dean of Nursing Operations, Department of Nursing, Polk State College “Thank you for providing this amazing learning opportunity! I have learned a great deal about myself as a leader. Along with that, I have met new colleagues and mentors. I appreciate being a part of the OADN Leadership Institute. I am proud to call myself an alum!” -Amy Carr MSN, RN – Level 1 PN Coordinator, State Fair Community College

 

Photo: Cohort 6 members Dee Armstrong & Lovey Reynolds connecting for the first time in person at the OADN 2023 Convention
“The OADN Leadership Institute had a significant impact on my leadership growth and sense of belonging. The seminars allowed me to learn the true meaning of leadership. I appreciated our guest speakers for enhancing my knowledge and fostering my growth as Associate Dean of Nursing. I plan to utilize the skills that I have acquired from the seminars along with the recommended books and handouts. Thank you to OADN for providing the opportunity to strengthen my leadership skills through participation in this incredible program!”

Dometrives (Dee) Armstrong DNP, MSN, FNP, PHN, RN
Associate Dean of Nursing
San Diego City College

 “The OADN Leadership Institute is a must for early career leaders. The Institute distinguishes itself with its diverse and dynamic seminars. The range of topics covered was deeply relevant, ensuring that each seminar was a unique learning experience. One of the Institute’s most remarkable aspects was the guest speakers and mentors, comprised of seasoned leaders and experts in various roles across the US. Their personal stories and experiences were invaluable, offering us a window into the complexities and rewards of effective leadership. The networking opportunities with a cohort of like-minded professionals from diverse backgrounds fostered a rich exchange of perspectives, as well as a source of support and collaboration. Participating in the OADN Leadership Institute was a game-changing experience for me, both professionally and personally. The Institute’s comprehensive content has given me the confidence and skills to enhance my leadership style, emphasizing the importance of integrity, social responsibility, and long-term thinking. I wholeheartedly recommend the OADN Leadership Institute to anyone aspiring to become a more effective, innovative, and responsible leader.”

Lovey Reynolds MSN, RN, CPN, CNE
FT Nursing Faculty
City Colleges of Chicago Malcolm X College

 

“As a newer leader in nursing education, the OADN Leadership Institute was transformative! Being so busy, it may never seem like the right time to set aside time for personal growth, but it is definitely worth the investment! The program offered me an invaluable opportunity to pause and spend a few moments recharging and focusing on my career and leadership development through thought-provoking and inspirational seminars. I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to grow and develop as a leader!” – Karla Ross DNP, RN, CNE – Director, Associate Degree Nursing, Blinn College

 

 

“The OADN Leadership Institute has provided me with a safe space to process what it means to be an associate degree nursing director. The 1:1 mentoring gives me direct access to a seasoned ADN leader and my mentor has already expanded my network with introductions to numerous individuals who have ideas to share about my personal growth and program management.  The time I set aside to participate in this program is time I am gifting to myself as a learner and a developing leader in a very challenging era of nursing and nursing education.” – Dale Spielman, MSN, RNC-OB, CNE – Director for Nursing Education, Harford Community College

 

“The small cohort model provides participants with the opportunity to connect and collaborate with other nursing leaders across the country who share similar challenges and experiences. I have truly appreciated the program format to engage in further exploration during the peer-to-peer discussions with my Pod. The OADN Leadership Institute has provided useful leadership resources not just for right now, but for my future professional goals as well.” – Vicki Calfa, MSN, RN, CNE, PCCN – Assistant Professor of Nursing, Ranger College – Ranger, TX

 

 

“If you are new to the role of a leader in nursing education or looking to improve your leadership skills, this is the program for you. The OADN Leadership Institute provides significant guidance, support, and great mentors. The monthly seminars were timely and relevant to what is occurring in nursing education with innovative solutions. Your cohort and the speakers you meet become additional resources long after the program ends.” – Karen Macey-Stewart, DNP, A-GNP-C, PMGT-BC – Interim Traditional BSN Practice Director and Assistant Professor, College of Nursing and Health, Loyola University – New Orleans, LA

 

 

“The OADN Leadership Institute provided me with a structured approach to evaluation of my own learning needs and planning for my professional development. More importantly, the Institute created a community of nursing educators and educational leaders who continue to provide mentorship and support for the participants’ personal growth.” – Peter Miskin, DHSc, MScN, RN, PHN – Nursing Faculty, Evergreen Valley College – San Jose, CA

Webinar Jan. 24 – Generative AI in Nursing Education

Generative AI in Nursing Education

January 24, 2024 – 12PM EDT

Join us for an engaging webinar designed specifically for nurse educators who are eager to stay ahead in a world where Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming ubiquitous. An expert panel will discuss how AI technology is rapidly evolving and becoming more integrated into educational settings, and why it’s essential for educators to understand and harness these powerful tools to enhance teaching and learning experiences in nursing.

Whether you’re new to AI or looking to expand your existing knowledge, this webinar will provide you with the necessary resources and ideas to modernize your approach to nursing education.

Topics Covered:

• Overview of generative AI basics
• Tips to implement AI tools
• Strategies to overcome AI challenges

SPEAKERS

Moderator

William M. Detmer, MD, MSc

William M. Detmer, MD, MSc is the president and CEO of Unbound Medicine. Dr. Detmer is a board-certified internist trained at the University of California-San Francisco with a master’s degree in medical information sciences from Stanford University. In 1994 Dr. Detmer created the first web-based search interface to the world’s medical literature. He was vice president of clinical information products for Ovid Technologies before starting Unbound Medicine. Dr. Detmer spends much of his time working on all things Unbound but still finds time to travel and enjoys being with his family.

 Panelist

Kimberly D. Acquaviva, PhD, MSW, CSE, FNAP

Kimberly D. Acquaviva, PhD, MSW, CSE, FNAP is the Betty Norman Norris Endowed Professor at the University of Virginia School of Nursing as well as a Provost’s Office Faculty Fellow. Before she was recruited to UVA in August 2019, she spent fifteen years as a faculty member at the George Washington University School of Nursing and the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences. During her time at GW, she served as both founding faculty and the inaugural Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs in the School of Nursing. The latest subject she’s helping demystify is one that seems to frighten even the heartiest academics: artificial intelligence (AI). A year and a half after she published LGBTQ-Inclusive Hospice & Palliative Care: A Practical Guide to Transforming Professional Practice in 2017, Kim learned that her wife Kathy had ovarian cancer. Kim and Kathy spent the next six months sharing their experiences via social media and giving people a sense of what it’s like to be living while dying.  Shortly after Kathy died in August 2019, a New Yorker documentary film was made about Kim, Kathy, and their son Greyson. ​ Her new book, The Handbook of LGBTQIA-Inclusive Hospice & Palliative Care, was published by Columbia University Press in October 2023.  ​ Dr. Acquaviva has a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality Education from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, an M.S.W. from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice, and a B.A. in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania College of Arts and Sciences. She is an AASECT-Certified Sexuality Educator.

 Panelist

Justin Fontenot DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAADN

Editor-in-Chief, Teaching and Learning in Nursing [OADN], Associate Professor [Tulane University], Organization for Associate Degree Nursing

Dr. Fontenot, who is a Fellow of the Academy of Associate Degree Nursing (AADN), is an Associate Professor of Nursing at Tulane University School of Medicine and the Editor-in-Chief of Teaching and Learning in Nursing. Dr. Fontenot is currently serving as a founding member and Co-Chair of the OADN Diversity Equity Inclusivity Committee, where he made substantial contributions as an author of the OADN position paper on Racial and Social Equity. He has demonstrated a deep commitment to addressing racism, bias, and oppression in nursing education and practice. Dr, Fontenot is a dedicated advocate for Associate Degree Nursing and serves as a role model for ADN students, nurses, and faculty. He is interested in how AI can help students in their studies and researchers in their work to speed up the transition of evidence in clinical practice.

OADN Voices: January Leadership Message

Realize Your Potential in the New Year with OADN: 

Setting Intentions and Embracing Opportunities 

 

Dear OADN Members,

The New Year is not just a change in the calendar but a moment of transition, a perfect chance to reset, renew, and rediscover the possibilities. We will use this transition period to set intentions for the coming year. Consider how OADN can help you achieve your 2024 goals….

You may intend to complete more professional development. Prioritize your ongoing learning and skill development with OADN’s continuing education series. Additionally, mark your calendar for the OADN Convention scheduled for October 31st – November 3rd in the picturesque city of Tampa. The OADN Convention is the only national conference exclusively dedicated to the needs of pre-licensure registered nursing education programs and the associate degree pathway.  It is a prime opportunity to network with peers, attend informative education sessions, and gain insights that can propel your professional growth.

If staying informed about cutting-edge research in nursing education is one of your objectives for the coming year, consider making it a goal to read each issue of Teaching and Learning in Nursing Education issue. This quarterly publication is the official peer-reviewed journal of OADN and publishes research specific to our practice in ADN education.

Have you considered sharing your knowledge with others? You can accomplish this in many ways. For example, you could start working on a poster submission or podium abstract for the OADN Convention in the fall. Watch for the 2024 Call for Abstracts for more details and consider submitting an abstract. Are you still waiting to write a full-length journal article? You can submit an article to the newest section of Teaching and Learning in Nursing Education Tips of the Trade for ADN Nurse Educators. This section welcomes submissions of at most 250 words highlighting innovative and practical teaching tips.

Attending the OADN Leadership Institute can be a transformative experience for those aspiring to a leadership role in nursing education. The Institute is tailored to current and future nursing leaders, providing a platform to hone essential skills, exchange ideas, and cultivate a network of mentors and peers.

Recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives in nursing education research, OADN has opened a new avenue for individuals researching to recruit nursing education participants. If you are frustrated with research that does not consider the ADN perspective, why not take matters into your own hands and conduct your research? OADN allows researchers to reach OADN members for recruitment and participation in nursing education research studies. Researchers can apply to have their recruitment materials showcased on the OADN website and promoted in OADN communications. This initiative encourages voluntary participation from ADN faculty and program leadership, fostering a collaborative approach to research within the ADN community. To learn more, visit the OADN Member Research Survey Application

In conclusion, the new year is a blank slate awaiting your aspirations and intentions. Whether seeking professional development, staying abreast of research, sharing your knowledge, or aspiring to leadership, OADN stands ready to help you achieve your goals. May 2024 be a year of growth, fulfillment, and success in all your endeavors.

Elizabeth “Liz” Mizerek
PhD, RN, FN-CSA, CNE, CEN, CPEN, FAEN
Northeast Regional Director, OADN Board

Nursing Community Monthly Roundup – December 2023

OADN continues our federal advocacy on your behalf as a member of the Nursing Community Coalition, where we work to ensure that nurses are supported and that nursing education is funded.

NCC Looks Back on 2023 
View the full list of the Nursing Community Coalition’s (NCC) advocacy and engagement in 2023 by clicking here.

We look forward to our continued unified efforts in the New Year!

OADN Voices: December Leadership Message

Reflecting on a Year of Achievements:

Forging Connections & Looking Ahead to OADN’s 40th Anniversary

 

Dear OADN Members,

As I returned from San Diego to Washington, D.C., I took a moment to reflect on the exceptional experience of meeting numerous OADN members in person at this year’s OADN Convention. The event boasted a record-breaking attendance of 607, highlighting the significance of in-person connections and community-building.

The time spent together offered meaningful opportunities for spontaneous conversations during keynote addresses, workshops, and the various breakout sessions. It was heartening to see numerous members approaching me, sharing that this marked their first OADN Convention and expressing their appreciation for the event. The resonating spirit of this year’s theme, “Turning the Tide of Nursing Education,” contributed to a memorable atmosphere.

As educators in Associate Degree Nursing, you have the ability to influence numerous lives. Those who have had the privilege of working with our exceptional students can attest to the transformative nature of the ADN pathway, often influencing generations to come. Keynote speakers Dr. Rebar and Dr. Heimgartner emphasized the dichotomy between preparing students for NCLEX and the practical realities of clinical practice.

This year’s convention provided ample networking opportunities, allowing me to personally connect with numerous OADN members. One standout member, Theodora from Instituto in Chicago, IL, was someone I had the pleasure of meeting during the virtual Coffee and Conversations with the CEO. Our connection deepened at this year’s Convention, where we sat together for lunch and had the opportunity to catch up. I facilitated an introduction between Theodora and a Chicago-based ADN colleague, paving the way for further collaboration.

We were fortunate to be hosted in San Diego, the home city of Donna Meyer. Donna played a crucial role in organizing a walk to the Unconditional Surrender statue near the hotel, providing a picturesque backdrop as the sun set behind us.

As we bid farewell to 2023 and embrace a new year, the anticipation of OADN’s 40th anniversary fills the air, promising celebrations. Expressing gratitude for this year’s achievements, we approach the future with optimism and determination. OADN remains steadfast in its commitment to leading the charge in fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in nursing. Together, we continue to shape a nursing community that mirrors the richness of human experiences and backgrounds within and across our communities.

OADN is dedicated to fostering the next generation of nursing education leaders in 2024. As you explore your personal leadership journey, consider applying to the OADN Leadership Institute. Previous participants attest to the profound impact of this program, highlighting life changing experiences provided through mentorship and meaningful connections with national thought leaders. To learn more about this signature program visit our website for more information. Application deadline closes December 20, 2023.

I extend my deepest appreciation to each of you whose contributions have fueled our shared success. With confidence, I anticipate that the coming year will bring even greater accomplishments for OADN.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing education and practice. OADN wishes you continued health, prosperity, and success in the new year and beyond. May the holiday season be a time of rest and reflection, surrounded by family and loved ones!

 

 

 

 

Rick García, Ph.D., RN, CCM, FAAOHN, FAADN
Chief Executive Officer
OADN and OADN Foundation

Nursing Community Monthly Roundup – November 2023

OADN continues our federal advocacy on your behalf as a member of the Nursing Community Coalition, where we work to ensure that nurses are supported and that nursing education is funded.

NCC Sends Letter to Congressional Leadership Outlining Updated FY 2024 Funding Requests  
On November 13, all sixty-three members of the Nursing Community Coalition (NCC) sent a letter to Congressional Leadership, as well as to House and Senate Appropriations Committees, requesting at least $302.472 million for Title VIII Nursing Workforce Development Programs and at least $197.693 million for the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) in fiscal year (FY) 2024, as outlined in the Senate Appropriations Committee passed bill. The NCC further outlined that now is not the time to go backwards on funding. The NCC urged Congress to avoid a long-term continuing resolution (CR) and fully fund these critical programs.

NCC Sends Letter Welcoming the New NIH Director 
On November 30, the Nursing Community Coalition (NCC) sent a letter to Dr. Monica M. Bertagnolli welcoming her as the 17th Director of the National Institutes of Health and outlining our commitment in elevating nursing research and the work of our nurse scientists.

OADN Voices: November Leadership Message from Public Board Member Matthew Morris

Entering A Season of Fellowship and Gratitude

Dear OADN Members,

As we enter November, our thoughts naturally turn to the upcoming winter holiday season. It is a time when we gather together with our families, friends and colleagues to share gifts, meals, fellowship, and to express our appreciation for our good fortune. As nurses, educators and leaders, we also embrace the opportunity to provide service to others during this time. We lead our families, educate students, mentor faculty, offer guidance during challenging moments, and provide safe havens for those in need.  We do all of this because of our unwavering commitment to nursing and our caring nature.

At OADN, we remain dedicated to our mission, serving as the national voice and a pivotal resource for community college nursing education programs and especially supporting you, the educators and leaders in academia.

In celebration of you, we will gather in San Diego this month to kick off a season of fellowship. We look forward to connecting with you, collectively exchanging the gifts of education, breaking bread, and embracing the convention theme, “Turning the Tide of Nursing Education,” together.

In a quintessentially American tradition, we will return home to celebrate Thanksgiving.  I am curious how many of us will be thankful for academic challenges, curriculum development, test question validation, an ever-changing academic culture, and a new, complex tech landscape in healthcare and education. I hope that many of you will be thankful, and that you gain new insights at the convention to help tackle these ongoing challenges.

In the spirit of the Thanksgiving season, allow me to take a moment to express my own story of gratitude. I am thankful that a young man from a poor, inner-city upbringing was accepted into an Associate Degree Nursing program. I am thankful that he was educated, coached and mentored by a collective of astute, caring and committed educators who generously gave their time and effort to support his dreams. I am thankful that whenever that young man had questions, there was always a faculty member ready to provide guidance and support. I am thankful that the team of educators witnessed that young man’s graduation, successful completion of board exams, and the beginning of his nursing career. They changed his life, and for that, I am profoundly thankful.

I am also grateful for the stories that have yet to be written of future caregivers searching for you, our trusted educators. Today, they may be frustrated employees wondering why they didn’t follow their dream of caring for others, single moms struggling to make ends meet, or high school students feeling lost in this world. They are looking for their story. They are searching for their own unique path. Their future will involve preserving the trust of the public, providing care in customary and novel settings, and improving the health of the current and next generation. They are hopeful to find you, to help change their lives, and they will be thankful for your guidance too. They will be thankful for how you’ve improved their families’ lives.

During this season of fellowship and gratitude, in the midst of the difficult and challenging work of another semester, please remember the extraordinary impact you have on me, your colleagues, your students, and those lives you will touch in the future. We are all thankful for you!

With appreciation for the educators that changed my life,

Matthew Morris, DNP, MS, RN, NEA-BC, CENP
Public Director, OADN Board