Nursing Network

The Virginia Nurses Association and the Virginia Nurses Foundation unite and empower nurses as a driving force for change. Through bold advocacy, cutting-edge education, and innovative leadership, we shape the future of nursing, elevate patient care, and strengthen the health of Virginia’s communities.

Distribution: 150,000+ RNs, LPNs and Student Nurses

Each year, National Nurses Week offers us a powerful opportunity to reflect, recognize, and re-energize our profession. In 2025, the American Nurses Association chose the theme, The Power of Nurses, a message that echoes louder than ever in today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. As President of the Virginia Nurses Foundation, I am honored to celebrate and uplift the extraordinary power of nurses across our commonwealth.

When we talk about "power," we aren't just referring to positional authority. We're referring to the unique influence, impact, and presence that nurses bring to every bedside, boardroom, community, and policy table. We are advocates, educators, leaders, healers, and visionaries. The power of nurses lies in our ability to move people through compassion, through action, and our unwavering commitment to the health and dignity of every individual.

Our Power is in Our Purpose
Across Virginia, nurses serve with resilience, skill, and purpose in every corner of healthcare. From neonatal intensive care units to community health clinics, correctional facilities to college campuses, rural outposts to urban hospitals---we show up. And in that daily showing up, we are agents of change. We power hope in the face of illness, courage in moments of fear, and clarity during times of uncertainty.

This year's theme invites us to embrace our voice and visibility boldly. Nurses are not only at the heart of healthcare delivery; we are key to transforming it. Whether advancing health equity, leading research, influencing policy, or mentoring the next generation, nurses are rewriting the story of what is possible.

Our Power is in Our Unity
At the Virginia Nurses Foundation, we witness the collective strength of nurses coming together to advocate for better practice environments, educational opportunities, and equitable care. We support initiatives that elevate the nursing profession and invest in its future. Whether through scholarships, leadership development, or community partnerships, we believe in the limitless potential of nurses to shape a healthier Virginia.

When nurses unite, we are an unstoppable force. Our collective voice is a catalyst for systemic change---and a reminder that power grows exponentially when it is shared.

Our Power is in Our Stories
Every nurse has a story. A reason they chose this path. A moment that reminded them why they stayed. This Nurses Week, I hope you each shared your story---the victories, the struggles, the laughter, the loss, and the love that defines your nursing journey. Your voice is powerful, and someone needs to hear it.

In a world filled with noise, the voice of a nurse cuts through with clarity, compassion, and credibility.

Celebrating You
To every nurse reading this---thank you. Thank you for the long nights, the missed meals, the tough conversations, and the quiet moments of holding a hand or offering a reassuring smile. Thank you for continuing to care, even when the weight feels too heavy. You are powerful. You are essential. You are the heartbeat of our healthcare system.

Remember: The Power of Nurses is not a theme for one week---it is a truth that endures. Let's honor it, live it, and continue to use it to shape a more just, compassionate, and healthy future for all.

Happy Nurses Week!

The Power of Nurses™ has been this year's theme for National Nurses Week. The power of nurses can take many forms and this year we should acknowledge and celebrate them all.

We can certainly celebrate the positional power of nurses who have risen to roles with significant authority and influence. This includes nurses that head our professional organizations and nurses who lead our health care institutions. We can celebrate the power of nurses who have contributed to the science of nursing. This includes our nurse scientists with programs of research in academia and practice settings who are elevating the practice of nursing and the health of our patients and our teams. But the most important power of nurses I believe we should acknowledge and celebrate is the personal power of influence and choice that each nurse possesses and when used wisely -- can change lives immeasurably. I am sure each of you can think of multiple examples that you have all witnessed and have had a powerful influence on your lives -- I would like to share several of these powerful examples that have touched my life and my practice.

In 2023, the National Team Daisy Award was given to a team of nurses who helped transfer children hospitalized in war-torn Ukraine in need of chemotherapy to a pediatric oncology unit in the United States. Nurses in both the Ukraine and the U.S. used their power to engage their interdisciplinary teams to arrange ambulance transport to the Ukrainian border and then provide medical flights to a pediatric oncology unit in the states. What a difference this made for these children and their families!

Tad Worku is an Emergency Department (ED) Nurse Practitioner who works in Southern California. But his first career was in music. He was well on his way to a music career after college with a record deal in hand when he decided there was more he wanted to do with his life. So, he decided to become a nurse. Tad now uses his power not only working in the ED but singing and motivating other nurses all across the country with his music and his stories of caring he experiences in the ED. His song, Better Days, is a personal favorite.

One amazing story of a nurse using their power for good is the story of Jonathan Bartels. Jonathan created "The Pause." Jonathan is a nurse with a varied clinical background but implemented the practice of clinicians "pausing" after the death of patients to honor the lives lost and support the resiliency of those who cared for them. The Pause is now practiced worldwide. You can find more about Jonathan and the pause at the website, thepause.me.

While these are examples of nurses using their personal power and ultimately having a global impact, there are multiples stories of nurses that happen daily that use their personal power to make a huge difference in the lives of patients and family. And while they seem like a singular event - collectively they ease pain and suffering in this world; they restore our hope in humanity; and they make the world a kinder place to live. So, no matter how big or small - celebrate the hope, kindness and health that we all feel when nurses use their power and take action for good.

Happy Nurses Week!

As we close out our celebration of National Nurses Week, we are reminded of The Power of Nurses™. For 125 years, the Virginia Nurses Association (VNA) has embodied that power—advocating for the profession, strengthening nursing practice, and improving the health of our communities.

Today, VNA continues this vital work through its mission: to promote advocacy and education for registered nurses to advance professional practice and influence the delivery of quality care. The Virginia Nurses Foundation (VNF) complements this mission by fostering an educated, diverse, and empowered nursing workforce through investments in leadership development, research, and innovation.

Over the past 12 years, VNA and VNF have thrived under the exceptional leadership of outgoing CEO Janet Wall. Alongside dedicated boards, strong chapter leaders, passionate members, and committed staff, she has helped elevate both organizations and shaped a strong foundation for the future. I am deeply honored to now serve as the Chief Executive Officer of both VNA and VNF, and I step into this role with a profound sense of gratitude and responsibility.

My journey in nursing and professional association leadership began nearly two decades ago. I have been a proud nurse for 18 years and have spent the last 9 years serving on staff as VNA and VNF’s Director of Professional Development. My roots in nursing leadership go back even further—to my days as a student leader on the Virginia Nursing Students’ Association board, where I served as both Secretary and President. That experience ignited my passion for advocacy and professional engagement, leading me to join VNA as a new graduate and serve in volunteer leadership roles, including Director-at-Large on the VNA Board.

As I transition into the CEO role, I am inspired by those who have led before me and energized by the opportunities ahead. My vision is to build on our rich legacy by strengthening VNA and VNF as conveners, collaborators, and tireless advocates for the nursing profession. Together, we will continue to champion our strategic imperatives: advancing equity in nursing and the communities we serve, improving nurse staffing, and fostering healthy and supportive workplaces.

We will continue to expand our collaborative efforts, deepen our commitment to meeting member needs, and grow our membership—because we are undeniably stronger together. We will build on our strong legislative advocacy, enhance our professional development programs, and increase the visibility of both nurses and the association. Most importantly, we will continue working to ensure every nurse in Virginia understands the value of belonging to their professional organization and how, together, we can influence lasting and meaningful change.

Thank you for the privilege of serving you. I look forward to listening, learning, and leading with you in the months and years to come.

Forensic nurses routinely operate at the intersection of medicine, trauma, and the justice system -- bearing witness to some of the most harrowing human experiences. The toll of this work can be devastating, leading to burnout, compassion fatigue, grief, and vicarious trauma. Caitlin Yerkes’ (at left) project responds with a series of healing workshops across Northern Virginia, built on the dual foundations of horticultural therapy and narrative medicine.

Throughout the year, participating nurses will engage in therapeutic activities—such as mindfulness nature walks, garden-based art projects, reflective journaling, and storytelling—led by credentialed experts in these fields. Each session will also include a shared meal to cultivate connection and communal healing.

Horticultural therapy (HT) engages participants in nature to reduce stress, regulate emotions, and encourage healing. Narrative medicine, on the other hand, helps nurses reflect on and process their experiences through storytelling, writing, and shared conversation. These techniques help externalize trauma, foster empathy, and reestablish professional identity. Sessions will include a focus on processing vicarious trauma, cultivating resilience, strengthening emotional boundaries, and more.

Through this integrative approach, Yerkes’ project aims not only to reduce the emotional toll of trauma but to equip forensic nurses with tools for sustainable self-care and professional longevity. By grounding recovery in both nature and narrative, the program fosters deep reflection and community -- a rare but vital offering in today’s high-stress healthcare environment.

Advancing Mental Health for the Nursing Workforce
The Virginia Nurses Foundation’s Innovation Awards reflect a strategic investment in nurse well-being at both ends of the career spectrum.

“We believe that by supporting creative, evidence-informed approaches to mental health,” said VNF President Dr. Mesha Jones, “we can empower nurses to thrive in their roles and, in turn, deliver better care to the communities they serve.”

VNF congratulates Dr. Melissa Gomes and Caitlin Yerkes and looks forward to sharing more about the progress and outcomes of their projects.

Each May, we celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time to recognize the diverse cultures, rich histories, and remarkable contributions of the AANHPI community in the United States. This month offers a meaningful opportunity to honor the invaluable impact of AANHPI nurses, whose dedication and cultural insight continue to shape the healthcare landscape.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service
AANHPI nurses have long been instrumental in delivering high-quality care, promoting public health, and advancing health equity. Their presence strengthens the healthcare system, especially in multicultural communities where language, tradition, and trust are essential to effective care.

From pioneers like Mooie Eng, a Chinese nurse who broke barriers increasing healthcare access for Chinese Americans and assisted many "war brides" in obtaining healthcare services post-World War II, to Mary Yone Akita, who transformed her home into a maternity hospital, providing much-needed care in the Los Angeles area amidst racial discrimination and anti-immigration tensions during the 1910s, AANHPI nurses have made lasting contributions to patient advocacy, education, research, and leadership. Their work has helped improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, and elevate the profession across the country. Yet, despite these accomplishments, many AANHPI nurses continue to face challenges such as racial discrimination, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and limited access to culturally specific mentorship and support.

Empowering and Supporting AANHPI Nurses
Below you'll find resources to advocate for and empower AANHPI nurses:

Asian American / Pacific Islander Nurses Association (AAPINA)
A national organization committed to improving healthcare for AAPI communities and supporting nurses through research, education, and advocacy.
National Coalition of Ethnic Minority Nurse Associations (NCEMNA)
Promotes the professional development of ethnic minority nurses and addresses health disparities.
Filipino Nurses United
Advocates for the rights, welfare, and working conditions of Filipino nurses in the U.S. and abroad.
National Association of Indian Nurses of America (NAINA)
Offers professional support and opportunities for collaboration among Indian nurses in the U.S.
American Nurses Association (ANA)
Provides resources and leadership for advancing DEI within the nursing profession.
Minority Nurse
A career, education, and advocacy platform that features scholarships, articles, and job resources for underrepresented nurses, including AANHPI professionals.
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month -- Government Site
Explore exhibits, stories, and educational materials honoring AANHPI heritage and history.

Celebrate and Advocate
Celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month means more than recognizing past and present achievements---it's also a call to action. It challenges us to ensure that AANHPI nurses have equitable access to leadership, professional development, and culturally competent support. Whether you're a healthcare leader, colleague, educator, or patient, you can help uplift AANHPI nurses by:

Encouraging inclusive policies and workplace cultures
Supporting AANHPI nurse-led initiatives and research
Sharing educational resources and mentorship opportunities
Listening to and amplifying AANHPI voices in healthcare spaces

This May---and every month---let us stand in solidarity with AANHPI nurses, honoring their resilience, leadership, and vital role in shaping the future of healthcare.

Embracing Cultural Diversity in Nursing: The Power of Cultural Humility

In today's interconnected and multicultural world, nursing is one of the few professions that consistently places caregivers at the intersection of culture, health, and humanity. Nurses come from every corner of the globe, bringing with them languages, traditions, and life experiences that enrich the healthcare landscape in ways both profound and personal.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the diversity of the U.S. nursing workforce is growing. As of recent reports, nearly 20% of registered nurses identify as racial or ethnic minorities. This mosaic of cultures offers immense potential for deeper patient connections, culturally sensitive care, and broader perspectives within healthcare teams.

According to data from the Virginia Department of Health Professions (DHP), Virginia's nursing workforce continues to evolve, with a younger, more diverse, and highly educated population across RN, LPN, and APRN roles. Notably, nearly half of nurses under 40 identify as racially or ethnically diverse, reflecting gradual progress toward a more inclusive healthcare environment.

"Virginia's nursing workforce continues to be among the most diverse in the nation," shared Dr. Yetty Shobo, PhD, Director of the DHP Healthcare Workforce Data Center (HWDC) and Data Analytics Division. "2024 data from the Virginia Department of Health DHP HWDC show growth in the gender, race, and ethnic diversity of nurses in the commonwealth. DHP HWDC findings compare favorably to the national average. They also show educational attainment levels among Virginia nurses are on the rise. This is attributed to greater numbers of medical institutions today that seek to hire employees with four-year degrees or higher."

This shift underscores the importance of cultural diversity and humility in nursing, as a diverse workforce better reflects the patient populations it serves and fosters more equitable, empathetic care. As patient populations and needs change, nurses must be equipped not only with clinical expertise but also with cultural humility to build trust and improve outcomes.

Unlike competence, which can imply mastery, cultural humility is a lifelong process of self-reflection, learning, and acknowledging one's own limitations. It invites nurses to engage with others' worldviews without judgment and to approach each patient and colleague with curiosity and respect.

"Cultural humility asks us not to assume expertise on another's culture, but instead to practice listening, learning, and being willing to be taught," said Dr. Melanie Tervalon, co-author of the foundational article Cultural Humility versus Cultural Competence: A Critical Distinction in Defining Physician Training Outcomes in Multicultural Education (Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 1998).

Incorporating cultural humility also means addressing systemic inequities and advocating for inclusive policies. Organizations like the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) have long emphasized the need for health equity, diversity in leadership, and structural change to support underrepresented groups.

Nursing schools across the country are increasingly embedding these values into their curricula. At the University of Michigan School of Nursing, for example, students participate in simulation scenarios and community immersions that focus on cultural humility, social justice, and patient-centered care.

Celebrating the many cultures within nursing means more than simply acknowledging heritage months or language skills. It's about fostering an environment where all identities are valued, where listening is prioritized over assumptions, and where care is grounded in mutual respect.

As nurses continue to be the most trusted professionals in the U.S.---a distinction confirmed annually by Gallup polls---embracing cultural humility is essential not only for ethical care but also for professional integrity. In the heart of nursing, where compassion and science meet, it is cultural humility that allows us to truly see each other---and in doing so, to heal together.

As the days grow warmer and Virginia bursts into life with blooming trees and vibrant landscapes, it's important to remember that ticks and tick-borne diseases are also returning for the season. The good news is that we live in one of the most beautiful states, offering an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy, and with a few simple precautions and armed with knowledge, we can fully embrace the outdoors while staying safe and healthy.

What are Tick-Borne Illnesses (TBIs)?
In 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported more than 71,000 new cases of tick-borne diseases across the U.S. In Virginia alone, tick-borne illnesses are consistently among the top reportable infectious diseases (CDC, 2025).

Tick-borne illnesses are diseases transmitted by parasitic arachnids known as ticks. In Virginia, four types of ticks commonly bite humans. Although not all ticks transmit diseases, at least three types of ticks are known to carry diseases that affect humans. These are the Lone Star Tick, the Blacklegged/Deer Tick, and the American Dog Tick. If you do develop symptoms after being bitten by a tick, knowing the type of tick that bit you can often help identify the type of tick-borne illness you might have (Virginia Department of Health , 2025).

Who Can Be Affected?
Anyone who spends time outdoors is at risk of being bitten by a tick. It's important to be vigilant and take preventive measures to avoid ticks and to remove them promptly to minimize the risk of contracting a tick-borne illness.

How to Stay Tick-Free

Know Where Ticks Live: Ticks thrive in areas with dense grass and wooded environments. Ticks can't fly or jump, so they rely on you brushing up against their habitat to catch a ride with you. Be aware of your surroundings. (Insecta Inspecta, 2025; CDC, 2025)
Scan Your Body and Clothes: Shower after being outdoors and check your body for ticks. This is called body scanning. Pay special attention to less obvious areas, such as underarms, behind the knees and ears, and around the hairline. Don't forget to inspect your clothes and gear as well! (United States Department of Agriculture, 2025)
Clothing and gear: Put your dryer-appropriate clothes and gear in the dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to remove any remaining ticks that may be hiding (CDC, 2025).
Use Tick Repellents: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a guide to help you select the most suitable repellents for your specific needs. Many effective repellents can be applied to clothing and shoes; however, consult your pediatrician or healthcare team to determine the best options for direct skin contact or use in children (EPA, 2024).
Dress Smart: Wear weather-appropriate clothing that covers the skin. If possible, tuck your pants or leggings into your socks to create a barrier that ticks can't easily cross.
Remove Ticks Immediately: If you find a tick, wash your hands and remove it immediately using tweezers. Pull it straight up out of the skin without twisting. Don't crush the tick between fingers but do dispose of it or secure it safely for later identification. Rewash your hands and the area of your skin with soap and water.
Check Your Pets: Our furry friends can bring ticks indoors, so be sure to carefully scan your pets after they've been outside.

What to Do if You Think You Have a TBI
If you develop symptoms after being bitten by a tick, such as fever, headache, nausea, flu-like symptoms, swelling, difficulty concentrating, new allergy-like symptoms, rashes, etc., then you should see your medical provider. If you experience trouble breathing, swelling in your face or throat, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), or confusion, call 911 immediately. The treatment is generally the same for most tick-borne illnesses; however, early and complete treatment leads to better outcomes.

Special Consideration
There are a few things to be aware of when considering your symptoms. Many people are familiar with the target-shaped rash associated with Lyme Disease, but these rashes don't look the same on all skin types and tones. To better familiarize yourself with how different rashes appear on various skin types, check sites such as the American Academy of Dermatology Association or the Skin of Color Society (American Academy of Dermatology Association, 2024; Skin of Color Society, 2024).

Additionally, there is a tick-borne syndrome that is an allergy-like reaction to alpha-galactose, a sugar found in mammals. This is known as Alpha-Gal Syndrome or AGS. After exposure to mammalian products, such as meat, dairy products, gelatin, gel capsules, etc., individuals with AGS may develop anaphylactic or allergic symptoms, gastrointestinal issues, or joint and muscle pain. (CDC, 2024; Mayo Clinic, 2024)

Resources
It may have been a difficult journey to get to a diagnosis, but you don't have to make this journey on your own. There are associations, support groups, online resources, and numerous materials available for individuals navigating tick prevention, tick-borne illnesses, and treatments.

The EPA and CDC both have excellent resources for tick prevention and disease identification. The Virginia Department of Health provides a tick guide to help you identify ticks and associated illnesses. This can be found on vdh.virginia.gov/ticks. Additionally, because 37% of all individuals living with AGS worldwide reside in Virginia and North Carolina, (Alpha Gal Alliance , 2024) Centra Health has also developed policies, menus, cookbooks, and guides to support those living with AGS (Centra Health , 2025).

Conclusion
As we continue to embrace the beauty and adventure that Virginia offers, let's do so with both joy and awareness. If you are already living with a tick-borne illness, then know you aren't alone. Lean into the resources and support that are available. Virginia's natural beauty is a gift worth cherishing. With a bit of preparation, we can confidently and safely explore its wonders, creating lasting memories in the great outdoors while investing in our long-term health.

In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, nurses play an indispensable role in ensuring quality patient care and driving positive change. VNA is dedicated to championing the interests of more than 130,000 registered nurses across the commonwealth. With a mission centered on promoting advocacy, advancing professional practice, and influencing the delivery of quality care, VNA serves as a steadfast ally for nurses at every stage of their careers.

From new nurses navigating their first steps into practice to seasoned professionals - both shaping healthcare’s future, VNA offers a comprehensive array of resources and support tailored to meet members’ diverse needs. Through networking opportunities with our local chapters and our online community, continuing education opportunities, and leadership development initiatives like the Nurse Leadership Academy and Next Level Leadership, VNA empowers nurses to excel in their roles, seize new opportunities for growth, and create meaningful connections.

Membership in VNA symbolizes nurses’ commitment to advancing the nursing profession through advocacy and lifelong learning. By joining the VNA/ANA community, nurses showcase their dedication to professional excellence and readiness to make a meaningful impact.

For current VNA/ANA members, we extend our gratitude for your ongoing support. Your feedback and engagement are vital as we strive to enhance your membership experience and ensure that the VNA remains an invaluable resource for your professional development.

Benefits of VNA Membership

Join a Community of Nurses
Membership in VNA makes a powerful statement about you. It shows employers, colleagues, and your patients your commitment to nursing and your desire to stay informed, educated, and involved. You'll also immediately be connected to a strong community of Virginia nurses spanning all practice areas and settings.

Access to Education
Keeping up your education can lead to better patient outcomes, systems improvement, and personal career advancement! Members get access to free and significantly discounted education, both at our highly acclaimed conferences and online at your own pace.

Amplify the Voice of Nursing
We are the only organization that advocates for all 130,000+ registered nurses throughout Virginia with one strong voice for the profession. Our members receive weekly legislative updates and real-time action alerts, and we rely on your concerns to help us craft nursing's public policy platform.

Access Savings and Benefits
When you join VNA, you also become a member of the American Nurses Association, and you receive the benefits of both organizations and join with nurses across the country to speak on behalf of your profession.

If you're not yet a member, there's no better time than the present to join. With membership of just $15 per month, becoming a part of VNA is not only an investment in your own future but also in the future of nursing as a whole. Join VNA/ANA today!

Together, let's elevate the nursing profession and shape the future of healthcare in Virginia. Join today and embark on a journey of professional growth, advocacy, and community. We're here to support you every step of the way!

Imagine belonging to one of the most trusted professions in the nation while feeling "unseen", "unheard", "undervalued", "disrespected", and "underutilized". While these feelings are not expressed by all nurses, they have been expressed by a significant number of licensed practical nurses (LPNs) within Virginia. In 2024, VNA and VNF surveyed LPNs to identify and better understand practice issues that they may have encountered. Top areas of concern include low pay, lack of respect, and limited visibility. The majority expressed an interest in or a need for advocacy, mentorship, networking, career advancement, professional development, and professional recognition.

Through the creation of an LPN Council, VNA/VNF aims to identify and address gaps in available resources while working collaboratively with LPNs to advance the nursing profession. Of the 1,478 LPNs who completed the survey, nearly 400 volunteered to participate on the LPN Council Steering Committee! The subsequently created LPN Council consists of 15 LPNs and VNA nursing leaders, reflects diversity in gender, years of experience, practice settings, and the region of the commonwealth in which they work.

The first LPN Council meeting was held in March. Robust discussion focused on key points from the previously mentioned LPN survey and 2024 LPN Workforce Report. Strategies related to LPN engagement, empowerment, and professional development were also brainstormed. With the intention of connecting LPNs to professional development opportunities and professional engagement, VNA/VNF invited LPNs to attend their Spring Conference, Empowering the Nurse, at a special introductory discounted rate. Additionally, LPNs receive VNF's quarterly e-newspaper, Virginia Nurses Today (VNT).

While VNA is focused on RN practice, we want to explore how we can assist our nursing colleagues in tapping into resources that will strengthen their voice and practice as well as benefit Virginia's patients and communities. LPNs play a critical role in healthcare, yet their voices are often underrepresented in discussions that shape nursing practice, policy, and professional development. Without the support of a dedicated statewide membership association, LPNs may lack access to essential education, advocacy, and resources that support career growth and high-quality patient care. Stay tuned for more updates from the LPN Council in future editions of VNT!

The nursing workforce in Virginia faces significant challenges meeting the demands of Virginians if we cannot grow and sustain the workforce. Virginians not only face an ageing population but as the general population ages, so does the median age of our nurses. The median age of a nurse in the United States is 46 years old [1] and about ½ of new nurses leave the workforce within the first two years. [2]. Virginia faces a critical need to develop pathways for new nurses but also address the needs of our current experienced workforce. These barriers threaten the sustainability of healthcare services across the commonwealth because without nurses there is no healthcare.

Crystal Stokes, Health and Medical Sciences Specialist from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), Office of Career and Technical Education (CTE) plays a crucial role in supporting Virginia's healthcare industry. Stokes leads VDOE CTE Health and Medical Sciences programs and offers promising solutions in developing and sustaining the nursing workforce.

The Role of the Virginia Department of Education Health Sciences
The Virginia Department of Education's Health and Medical Sciences programs are designed to prepare students for nursing careers in addition to thirty-three additional health professions. These programs introduce secondary students to nursing, medical, dental, and allied health occupations, equipping them with board approved licensure and national certifications for employment in various healthcare settings. Additionally, they facilitate entry into advanced health occupations programs that require post-secondary education and licensure, creating a pathway for future nurses ready to fulfill workforce shortages [3].

Additionally, the CTE VDOE nine Governor's Health Sciences Academies throughout Virginia help grow the nursing workforce by improving the academic achievement of students in the academy, increasing completion rates, providing work-based experiences and increasing enrollment and retention of students in post-secondary education. These programs aim to prepare students for careers in healthcare, by integrating academic content with career and technical instruction. They provide pathways in therapeutic services, diagnostic services, and more, ensure students obtain necessary training to be highly skilled healthcare professionals [4]. By making health sciences, particularly nursing, more accessible to Virginia students, the nursing workforce can flourish.

Teaming with Healthcare Organizations to sustain the Nursing Workforce.
Stokes adds that collaborating with healthcare organizations and post-secondary institutions offer internships, clinical rotations and educational opportunities. These partnerships allow students to gain valuable employment insight and assist with transitioning smoothly into the nursing workforce, addressing the critical need for skilled nurses.

Additionally, VDOE, Office of Career and Technical Education helps build pathways for future nurses ready to address workforce shortages. Organizations have benefitted from reaching out to this trove of resources and developing programming, such as conference workshops, networking events, educational symposiums, and healthcare camps. Stokes, states "If people call me...I find a way to make it happen."

Growing the Nurse Educators Workforce
There is no nursing workforce without the amazing nurse educators that prepare the nurses of tomorrow. To address the shortage of nurse educators, VDOE supports initiatives for individuals pursuing careers in nursing education and provide nursing educators free professional development. The courses and training aim to remove barriers for aspiring and practicing educators, ensuring a steady supply of qualified professionals to train the next generation of nurses [5].

Conclusion
The challenges facing Virginia's nursing workforce require a collaborative of the Virginia Department of Health, Nursing and Education alongside Healthcare and Nursing Professional Organizations to create innovative, approachable and sustaining approaches to not only grow but sustain Virginia Nurses. The Virginia Department of Education's Health and Medical Sciences programs, combined with initiatives like the Governor's Health Sciences Academies, education for VDOE nurse educators, and Crystal Y. Stokes leadership provide a strong foundation for addressing these barriers. By investing in education, mentorship, and workplace safety, Virginia can ensure a sustainable and thriving nursing workforce for years to come.

In 1993, I made a life-changing decision and took the first step into my future: I became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). At the time, I simply wanted to start a career that would allow me to help people and build a future for myself and my family. What I did not realize was that this first step would ignite a lifelong passion for nursing --- one that would eventually lead me all the way to the pursuit of a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

Becoming an LPN opened doors I never imagined. Those early years taught me how to connect deeply with patients, how to think quickly under pressure, and how to find joy even on the hardest days. It built a foundation. It also sparked something greater --- a calling to expand my knowledge and to leave a lasting impact.

With each experience, my vision grew larger. In 1999, after six years of practicing as an LPN, I earned my Associate Degree in Nursing and passed my RN licensure exam. This advancement allowed me to practice with greater autonomy and expanded my opportunities to heal, lead, and inspire. With each passing year, my vision for my future expanded. I knew I had more to give --- not just to my patients, but to the nursing profession itself.

Balancing work, family, and education was never easy, but perseverance and passion fueled my ambition. In 2009, I proudly earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), expanding my knowledge of leadership, research, and evidence-based practice. It was a transformative moment --- not just a degree, but a new level of confidence in what I could accomplish. For my family, it was a historic moment too. A first-generation college graduate reaching heights once thought out of reach. It opened doors into leadership roles and specialized areas of nursing, and I was determined to walk through each one.

Still, the dream continued to grow. In 2022, I completed my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), preparing myself to influence the future of healthcare through leadership, education, and advocacy. Now, as a proud DNP candidate preparing to graduate in December 2025, I realize that every step has been a building block toward a career filled with purpose, service, and lifelong learning. I stand on the shoulders of my ancestors and every experience, every patient, and every lesson that brought me to this point.

My journey would not have been possible without the strong foundation I received through my LPN program at Riverside College of Health Sciences. LPN programs play a vital role in the nursing profession. They offer an accessible, affordable pathway for those who are passionate about healthcare and looking to enter the nursing profession. The LPN role is foundational to healthcare providing hands on compassionate care to countless settings. Without strong LPN pathways, many communities would lack the essential nursing support they rely on. Supporting and celebrating LPN pathways strengthens the nursing profession as a whole, and it changes lives, one student, one nurse, and one patient at a time. If you're interested in learning more about LPN pathways in Virginia, be sure to explore the article also included in this edition, A Collaborative Approach for Addressing the Nursing Workforce Challenges in Virginia, with information from the Virginia Department of Education!

If I could leave you with one thought, it would be this: "Whatever path you choose, bloom where you are planted." If you are starting your nursing journey as an LPN, know that your dreams are valid, and your possibilities are endless. It is your first step in an incredible, lifelong career. Every lesson you learn, every life you touch, and every challenge you overcome will build you into the nurse and the leader you are meant to become. Decades later, I am living proof that with hard work, faith, and perseverance, that dream can grow into something greater than you ever imagined. When you chase your dreams, you are not only changing your own life --- you are changing the lives of everyone who comes after you. Your journey is worth it, and your best is yet to come. Nursing needs your heart, your passion, and your voice --- now more than ever.

The Virginia Nurses Foundation is excited to announce that award nominations are open for our 2025 Leadership Excellence Awards! These awards celebrate the diverse and powerful impact of nurse leaders across the Commonwealth of Virginia and Washington, D.C., recognizing those who go above and beyond to transform patient care, support their peers, and advance the profession.

With categories spanning frontline care, public health, education, research, and executive leadership, our Leadership Excellence Awards shine a spotlight on those whose work exemplifies integrity, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

Awards honorees will be recognized at the annual VNF Gala, held this year on Saturday, November 15 at the Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel.

Award Categories:

Direct Patient Care Leader -- Patient Safety (5 honorees)
Recognizes frontline nurse leaders with an exceptional commitment to patient safety. Nominees will demonstrate an impact on patient safety through attention to detail, a questioning attitude, and the courage to speak up and advocate.
Direct Patient Care Leader -- Patient Experience (5 honorees)
Recognizes frontline nurse leaders that demonstrates a commitment to serving patients with excellence. Nominees will demonstrate an impact on the patient experience through compassionate care, effective communication, and an attitude focused on exceeding expectations.
Public Health Nurse (5 honorees)
Recognizes public health nurses' contributions to public health nursing practice within their organization, community, region, state, nation, or globally by providing leadership in professional organizations, demonstrating outstanding public health nursing performance, or other accomplishments relating to public health nursing.
Nurse Manager/Director
Recognizes nurse leaders serving in a management role that demonstrate excellent management skills, advocacy and action to improve the patient care environment. Nominees should be presently employed in the field of nursing administration.
Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) of a Hospital
Recognizes nurse leaders serving in an administrative capacity that demonstrate advocacy, vision, and collaboration to improve patient care and the nursing workplace. Nominees should be presently employed as a chief nursing officer in a hospital.
Chief Nursing Executive (CNE)
Recognizes exceptional nurse leaders serving as the top nursing executive in a health system or corporation. This award recognizes outstanding leadership, dedication, and innovation, and celebrates those who have made significant contributions to elevating patient care and organizational success within the healthcare landscape.
Nurse Executive (Non-CNE/CNO)
Recognizes nurse leaders serving in an executive administrative capacity that demonstrate advocacy, vision, and collaboration to improve patient care and the nursing workplace.
Nursing School Dean/Director
Recognizes nurse leaders serving in an educational administrative capacity that demonstrate advocacy, vision, and collaboration to improve patient care and the nursing workplace. Nominees should presently be employed as a dean or director of a state-approved and nationally-accredited school of nursing.
Nurse Educator
This award recognizes nurses for their commitment to the advancement of nursing knowledge. Nominees should presently be employed in a nurse educator position.
Nurse Researcher
Recognizes nurses for significant research activities that positively affect nursing practice. Nominees should demonstrate recent involvement in research endeavors related to nursing.
Nursing Informatics
Recognizes a nurse who has made a significant impact on the care of patients and the discipline of nursing by successfully integrating nursing, its information and knowledge, with management of information and communication technologies.
Public/State Government Service
Recognizes nurses working within state government for their exemplary dedication to public service, and outstanding contributions to governance, community welfare, and impactful societal change.

Award Criteria
Nominees must be:

Licensed and employed in Virginia or Washington, D.C.
Actively engaged in enhancing the image of professional nursing
Committed to respectful, dignified care and professional growth
Present at the award ceremony on November 15, 2025, at the Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel

Nomination Process
Anyone can nominate a deserving nurse: colleagues, leaders, or community members. Each nomination must include:

A completed online nomination form
A 500-word narrative addressing award criteria
One letter of support (from someone other than the narrative author)
The nominee's current CV

The Nomination Period Ends July 31, 2025
Winners will be selected by the VNF Leadership Awards selection committee and honored at the annual VNF Gala on Saturday, November 15 at the Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel.

Submit your nominations today!

For more information, contact MJ Gearles, VNA & VNF Membership Manager, at mgearles@virginianurses.org.

Recent discussions about a projected nursing surplus in the United States have sparked confusion and concern within the healthcare community. While some reports suggest an overall surplus, the reality is more nuanced, with significant regional disparities and ongoing challenges in the nursing workforce.

National Projections vs. Regional Realities
A 2024 Mercer report forecasts a national surplus of approximately 30,000 registered nurses (RNs) by 2028. However, this surplus is not uniformly distributed across the country. Many states, particularly in rural areas, are expected to continue experiencing significant nursing shortages. For instance, North Dakota is projected to meet only 84% of its nursing demand by 2030, highlighting the uneven distribution of nursing resources (U.S. Chamber of Commerce).

Virginia, too, faces a complex workforce landscape. According to the Virginia Department of Health Professions (DHP) Healthcare Workforce Data Center, the state is experiencing both localized surpluses and acute shortages---particularly in rural areas like Southwest Virginia and the Eastern Shore. The demand for nurses in long-term care, school health, and public health roles remains high, especially given Virginia's rapidly aging population.

Additionally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the need for more than 275,000 additional nurses from 2020 to 2030 to meet the growing healthcare demands of an aging population. In Virginia alone, the Virginia Employment Commission forecasts nearly 6,000 new RN positions between 2022 and 2032.

Factors Contributing to Regional Disparities
Several factors contribute to these uneven workforce dynamics:

Geographic Distribution: Urban areas often attract more healthcare professionals due to better infrastructure and career opportunities, leaving rural regions underserved.
Educational Capacity: Nursing schools across the country face challenges in expanding enrollment due to faculty shortages and resource limitations, limiting the number of new nurses entering the workforce (AACN).
Workplace Environment: High levels of burnout, non-competitive pay, and challenging working conditions contribute to nurse attrition, especially in underserved areas (Axios).

Recommendations from Nursing Workforce Experts
To address these challenges, nursing workforce experts recommend:

Expanding Educational Opportunities: Increasing the capacity of nursing programs and providing incentives for nurse educators can help produce more qualified nurses. Virginia initiatives such as the G3 (Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back) program are helping low- and middle-income students access nursing education at community colleges. Expanding funding and support for faculty salaries is also critical.
Improving Work Environments: Better staffing ratios, supportive work cultures, and competitive compensation are essential to reducing burnout and retaining staff. Hospitals and health systems across Virginia should invest in wellness programs, improved staffing ratios, and flexible scheduling to retain talent.
Utilizing Technology: Tools such as telehealth can extend the reach of nurses and improve access to care in rural and remote areas. Virginia has seen significant growth in the use of telehealth, particularly in behavioral health and chronic disease management. Expanding telehealth training for nurses is helping close gaps in care across underserved regions.
Policy Reforms: Joining initiatives like the Nurse Licensure Compact, which Virginia participates in, allows nurses to practice across state lines, improving flexibility and regional coverage.

Insights from The Future of Nursing 2020--2030 Report
The National Academy of Medicine's "The Future of Nursing 2020--2030" report explores the issue in depth. The report outlines key strategies to build a stronger, more equitable nursing workforce:

Investing in Education: Strengthen educational pathways, especially for advanced practice and community-based roles. Virginia is actively working to expand access to RN-to-BSN and APRN pathways, particularly in underserved communities through university partnerships and workforce grants. This session, VNA successfully advocated for legislation to develop stackable degree credits for nursing programs.
Promoting Diversity: Increase representation in the nursing workforce to better serve diverse patient populations. Organizations such as the Virginia Nurses Foundation are working to increase diversity in nursing through scholarships, mentorship, and leadership development initiatives targeting underserved groups.
Supporting Nurses' Well-Being: Address stress, mental health, and work-life balance as essential factors in workforce sustainability. Programs like the VNF's SafeHaven initiative are addressing mental health, resilience, and peer support for nurses throughout the commonwealth.
Building Leadership: Equip nurses with the leadership skills and opportunities needed to shape policy and healthcare reform. VNF's Nurse Leadership Academy and VNA's engagement in state-level policy advisory groups empower nurses to lead change in healthcare delivery and equity across Virginia.

While national statistics may suggest a surplus, the nursing workforce reality in Virginia, like much of the country, is deeply shaped by geography, specialty, and systemic pressures. To ensure equitable care and workforce sustainability, it is critical that education, policy, and workplace strategies evolve to meet the dynamic needs of communities across the country.

As temperatures rise and heat waves and natural weather phenomena become more frequent and intense, healthcare professionals are seeing the direct consequences of extreme heat on public health. Nurses, often the first to identify and respond to these impacts, are uniquely positioned at the intersection of healthcare delivery and community engagement. Their frontline role makes them critical advocates for climate-related health initiatives.

From heat-related illnesses to respiratory conditions such as asthma caused by poor air quality and the increasing spread of infectious diseases, nurses are witnessing how climate change is reshaping the health landscape. By leading education efforts and connecting residents with vital resources, nurses are helping to build climate-resilient communities with a more compassionate and informed approach to care.

To support these efforts, the Virginia Nurses Foundation (VNF) has compiled a comprehensive collection of free Heat Health resources available on their Climate Health webpage. These tools have been provided by our Climate Health partners, the Virginia Department of Health's Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD), the Rural Health Association, the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation and Virginia Clinicians for Climate Action (VCCA). They are designed for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community members alike to better understand and address the dangers of extreme heat. Please be sure to utilize and share these free English and Spanish resources to help promote a healthier Virginia!

Some key resources include:

A study on the association between summertime emergency department visits and maximum daily heat index in rural and non-rural areas of Virginia (2015--2022)
The American Lung Association's State of the Air Report Card for Virginia
The CDC Heat & Health Dashboard, a national tool to monitor extreme heat and health outcomes
"A Heat Emergency," a report on urban heat exposure and access to refuge in Richmond, VA
CDC guidance on cooling centers and strategies to prevent heat-related illnesses
Posters and flyers in English and Spanish from the CDC, EPA, OSHA, RHHD, and VCCA, offering clear and actionable advice for individuals and families
VDH snapshots of Virginia asthma and heat-related illness (HRI) data broken down to locality
Educational materials like "Keep It Cool, Kids" and "Health in Our Changing Climate: Rising Heat", which target vulnerable populations

These resources---and many more---can be found by visiting VNF's Climate Health webpage.

As the summer heat intensifies, Virginia's nurses are calling on the public to learn, share, and act. Heat health is a serious matter---but with the right knowledge and tools, it's a challenge our communities can face together. You'll also find resources on air quality, sea levels, and more! This webpage will be continuously updated with resources for both healthcare providers and Virginia residents so be sure to bookmark the page and check back regularly for any new additions. Stay safe this summer!

[2]	A. Walker, "50% of New Nurses Quit Within 2 Years -- Why They're Leaving," Nurse.org, 20 November 2024. Available: https://nurse.org/news/half-of-new-nurses-quit-within-2-years/.
[3]	The VIrginia Department of Education , "Health and Medical Sciences," VDOE , [Online]. Available: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching-learning-assessment/k-12-standards-instruction/career-and-technical-education-cte/health-medical-sciences.
[4]	Virginia Department of Education , "CTE Governor's Health Science Academies," . Available: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching-learning-assessment/k-12-standards-instruction/career-and-technical-education-cte/governor-s-health-sciences-academies.
[5]	Virginia Department of Education , "Nurse Professional Development," VDOE , March 2025. Available: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/programs-services/student-services/specialized-student-support-services/school-health-services/school-nurse-professional-development..

Immersive Empathy-Building for Nursing StudentsProject Lead: Melissa Gomes, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNAP, FAANUVA School of Nursing

Healing Workshops for Forensic NursesProject Lead: Caitlin Yerkes, BSN, MPH, RN, SANE-A, SANE-PGeorge Mason University/Inova Health Systems

Immersive Empathy-Building for Nursing Students
Project Lead: Melissa Gomes, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNAP, FAAN
UVA School of Nursing

Healing Workshops for Forensic Nurses
Project Lead: Caitlin Yerkes, BSN, MPH, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P
George Mason University/Inova Health Systems