Nursing students attend policy summit and research conference
By: Merle Koury
Empowering Tomorrow’s Nurses: Insights from the 2024 AACN Student Policy Summit
The 2024 American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Student Policy Summit (SPS) brought together nursing students from across the nation to advocate for policies that shape the future of healthcare. Amidst the backdrop of evolving healthcare landscapes, students converged to amplify their voices and engage in meaningful dialogue with policymakers. The 2024 SPS was held in Washington DC – March 24-25, 2024.
Kathleen Hollins, a graduate nursing student in the Master of Science in Advanced Population Health Nursing (APHN) program at the University of Hawaii at Manoa Nancy Atmospera-Walch School of Nursing attended and actively immersed in didactic program sessions focused on the federal policy process and nursing’s role in professional advocacy. This article encapsulates the insights and experiences gained by a student attendee at the summit.
“The AACN Student Policy Summit highlighted the need for continued advocacy and efforts to support nursing research, education, and funding,” said Hollins. “In a career where we spend our time advocating for others, we need to ensure we advocate for ourselves and our communities to ensure a sustainable and fulfilling profession. Our voice does matter and it is important we share our experiences with policymakers”.
The 2024 AACN Student Policy Summit was a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of student voices in shaping healthcare policy.
Exploring Innovations in Nursing: Highlights from the Western Institute of Nursing Conference 2024
The Western Institute of Nursing (WIN), is one of four regional nursing research organizations in the US. Members of WIN include individual researchers, clinicians, educators, students, academic institutions, and healthcare organizations. The 2024 conference, renowned for its cutting-edge research and advancements in nursing, provided a platform for healthcare professionals and students to exchange ideas, engage in discussions, and learn from experts in the field. This year’s conference was held in Salt Lake, Utah – April 17-20, 2024.
Charnelle Julian, a graduate nursing student in the Doctor of Nursing DNP Family Nurse Practitioner FNP program attended and actively participated in various sessions, workshops, and presentations. She had the opportunity to interact with leading researchers and practitioners, gaining valuable insights into the latest trends and developments in nursing practice, education, and research. “Attending the Western Institute of Nursing Conference was an exciting and rewarding experience,” said Julian. “The podium presentations and academic posters showcased innovative ideas in nursing science and further solidified my interest in women’s health. I want to thank NAWSON for giving me this opportunity to network with distinguished nurse scientists and accomplished students. After returning from this conference, I am excited to continue in my pursuit of my DNP and hope to implement what I learned as I progress forward through my education.”