The 2025 SCNA Annual Convention was nothing short of extraordinary. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Hilton Head’s beaches, the Sonesta Resort provided the perfect blend of relaxation, inspiration, and professional growth. From cultural celebration to professional empowerment, every moment reminded us why South Carolina nurses are leading the way in innovation, advocacy, and excellence.
Thursday: Culture, Community, and Change
The convention opened with a soul-stirring Gullah performance, paying homage to the rich cultural heritage of the Lowcountry and grounding our time together in the spirit of community and resilience.
From there, the day launched into dynamic educational sessions designed to inform, uplift, and inspire nurses at every level. The opening keynote from Dr. Jason Thrift on AI in Nursing set the tone for innovation to be at the top of mind for the duration of the convention. An impressive and impactful highlight was the unveiling of SCNA’s Racial Reckoning Statement. 
This moment marked a defining moment in our ongoing journey toward equity and inclusion in nursing. More than a year and a half of passionate pursuit to gain understanding came to a culmination that now leads future growth for the association.
The evening culminated in the 2025 Annual Membership Meeting, where members engaged in thoughtful, and sometimes passionate, discussion around proposed bylaws changes. The highlight? The approval to move forward with a historic step, creating a pathway to membership for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). While questions and spirited debate filled the room, consensus emerged: it’s time to welcome all nurses into the SCNA family. Implementation planning begins in early 2026, with a stakeholder workgroup to shape what inclusive membership will look like for our association’s future.
Friday: Advocacy, Innovation, and Celebration
Day Two delivered energy and empowerment from start to finish. Morning sessions challenged perspectives and sparked new ideas, setting the tone for the day’s highlight — a lunch conversation with Senator Tom Davis, sponsor of Senate Bill 45, and SCNA’s contract lobbyist Wanda Crotwell. Together, they provided invaluable insight into the legislative path forward for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Full Practice Authority. The audience was engaged, inspired, and ready to take action for the future of nursing in South Carolina.
As the sun set, it was time to celebrate in true SCNA fashion at the 2025 SCNA Gala: “Innovation Station – A Night of Discovery.” From the dazzling décor and delectable food to the live DJ and endless dancing, it was a night designed to uplift, honor, and party with purpose. Awards presented in partnership with the DAISY Foundation, including the Judith C. Thompson Award and the Dr. Stephanie Burgess Advocacy Award, made the evening unforgettable. The entire night was a shining tribute to nurses who exemplify innovation, compassion, and leadership.
Saturday: Education, Empowerment, and Excellence
The final day of the convention began with a defining moment that will be talked about for years to come; a fireside chat featuring Angela Beddoe, CEO of the American Nurses Enterprise, and Brad Goettl, Chief Nursing Officer of the American Nurses Association. Their conversation was inspiring, uplifting, and deeply affirming, leaving attendees energized about the future of nursing and the power of nurses to shape health care, policy, and practice nationwide.
The momentum carried into the rest of the day, with a lineup of powerful sessions covering everything from nursing malpractice and legal preparedness (thanks to our partners at NSO) to Social Security, gamification, and pharmacy updates.
