Varsha Singh
Varsha Singh
- MSN, APNCredentials: MSN, APN
Place of Employment: Optum
Which Nursing Organizations are you currently a member of: FNAP, ANA, AANP, NJSNA, NAINA, SATHI
Board(s) currently serving on: FNAP/NJSNA, SATHI Advisory Board
Tell us about your journey to the boardroom. What inspired you to seek a leadership position?
I was inspired by the idea of leading a change that makes a difference in the quality of care provided to patients.
What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?
I continue to learn and mentor new members who join the organization and provide support to them. I create leadership training and opportunities for the next generation to continue the work.
What impact have you had serving on a board? Example?
As NJSNA Region 3 president 2013/2015 I was able to roll out and award scholarship for the first time. As president of AAIN-NJ 2 I networked with NJ state nursing organization. As president of NJ Stroke coordinators consortium created a free Stroke CE program 5.5 CE that can be used by the membership.
What advice would you give someone going into a board leadership position for the first time?
Be courageous and curious, find a mentor, be open and learn as much as you can, bring others and create your own strong team, remember it’s your own motivation that paves your way, and stay engaged.
What are a few resources you would recommend to someone looking to gain insight into becoming a better leader and eventually obtaining a board position?
Start at your own workplace and volunteer to chair a committee, read, attend leadership conferences, be a part of the ANA leadership program, and find a mentor.
Why do you feel it is important for nurses to serve on boards?
Nurses on boards are representatives of nursing and there are many other areas requiring nursing inputs. Only nurses can advocate for nurses in a true sense.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to nurses serving on boards?
Not being aware that they can serve at public office and a lack of knowledge.
Boards: FNAP/NJSNA, SATHI Advisory BoardContinue Reading
The Nurses on Boards Coalition (NOBC) represents national nursing and other organizations working to build healthier communities in America by increasing nurses’ presence on corporate, health-related, and other boards, panels, and commissions.