President’s Message
by
Michelle L. Foley, RN, C, MA, CNE
I invite you to join us at the 2008 New Jersey Nursing Convention! The New Jersey League for Nursing and the New Jersey State Nurses Association have been co-sponsors of this event for eleven years. The theme this year is “Nursing on the Cutting Edge”. I attended the 2007 NLN Educational Summit in Phoenix this past September and I was amazed at the “cutting edge” nursing education that is occurring throughout this vast country. Narrative pedagogy, educational response systems, simulation, journaling, learner centered education and of course, evidenced-based education and teaching methods.
The NJLN pre-convention program is “Evidence Based Teaching for Clinical and Academic Educators” The program presenter is Dr. Judith DePalma, associate professor at Slippery Rock University near Pittsburgh. She has numerous publications and presentations on evidence-based decision making. Dr. DePalma’s consulting firm focuses on helping clinical sites to implement evidence-based practice, especially in preparation for Magnet status.
The keynote Convention presentation is “Save the First Dance for You” based on the book written by Dr. Doris Young. Dr. Young addresses the need for nurses to learn to balance their personal and professional lives in order to offer quality patient care and not burn out. The luncheon speaker is Dr. Vicki Lachmann who will talk about “Ethics in Nursing.”
A special welcome to first time Convention attendees. You will find a vast array of educational programs being offered by nursing leaders who are willing to share their expertise. A warm welcome to nursing students, you are the future of healthcare, attend the programs, visit the exhibits and ask questions. For the “regulars” a hearty welcome back, good to see you again, reach out to a new attendee or nursing student, be a terrific role model and network with your colleagues.
Lastly, I invite you to learn, share, laugh, relax and enjoy the 2008 New Jersey Nursing Convention on April 2-4, at the Tropicana Casino & Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
If you would like to receive a 2008 Convention brochure with all the program details, please send an email to our office at NJLNurse@aol.com and we will mail one to you.