Credentials: RN, MSN, CAPA
Place of Employment: Adirondack Health
Which Nursing Organizations are you currently a member of: NYSNA, ASPAN/NYSPANA
Board(s) currently serving on: NYSPANA
Tell us about your journey to the boardroom. What inspired you to seek a leadership position?
To support the organization and its goals to foster continuing education and networking resources for peri anesthesia nurse, also to further my own professional growth and to give back to my profession. The previous leadership team were ready to retire so the opportunity presented itself.
What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?
I am attending leadership training annually, using the past president and regional directors as mentors.
What impact have you had serving on a board? Example?
My goals have included revitalizing the scholarship and grant programs. This year we gave our first research grant.
What advice would you give someone going into a board leadership position for the first time?
Realize that it will require more time than you thought. Ask questions all the time and use your other board members skills. Give lots of positive feedback to those you serve with.
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?
Continuing to advance your education, being part of professional organizations and staying aware of current trends in healthcare and how they play out in your community are all important.
Why do you feel it is important for nurses to serve on boards?
Our skills as care givers, excellent communicators, and servant leaders on the front lines prepares us to get involved at the decision making level.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to nurses serving on boards?
Time and being asked to join. Most of us are working full time, have family commitments, may be pursuing education. It is hard to decide to make one more commitment.
