Six months into 2026, one thing is clear: the South Carolina Nurses Association continues to grow, strengthen its foundation, and works intentionally on behalf of nurses across our state.
Growth that truly lasts does not happen by accident. It requires thoughtful planning, a clear sense of direction, strong systems, and people who are willing to stay engaged and do the work, day after day. That is the approach guiding SCNA as we move forward.
Membership: Our Collective Strength
Today, SCNA represents more than 2,600 nurses, and our membership continues to grow steadily each month and year. Our goal for 2026 is to reach 3,000 members and beyond, but this is not about numbers alone. It is about what happens when nurses come together around a shared purpose.
Our collective voice is our strength. When nurses engage across specialties, regions, and roles, we create influence that is meaningful and lasting. That shared voice reflects the heart of The Power of Nurses™ and reminds us that progress happens when we move together.
SCNA serves nurses in acute care, ambulatory care, psychiatric mental health, women’s and children’s health, education, advanced practice, entrepreneurship, and every setting in between. No matter where you practice, SCNA exists to support you and, just as importantly, to work alongside you as a partner, advocate, and resource.
Strengthening Our Foundation
As membership grows, it becomes even more important to ensure the organization itself is strong, efficient, and sustainable. Over the past year, SCNA has focused intentionally on improving internal systems and financial stewardship.
We have implemented cost-saving operational changes, including a transition to a Zoom Phone system that reduced related expenses by nearly 50 percent. We have begun evaluating vendor contracts through a formal Request for Proposal process to ensure responsible use of resources. At the same time, we continue to enhance our technology platforms and operational systems so that SCNA can remain responsive, accessible, and aligned with the needs of a modern nursing workforce.
These efforts matter because every dollar saved and every system improved allows us to reinvest directly into the nurses of South Carolina.
A Small but Mighty Team
Transparency is important, and it is worth acknowledging that SCNA operates with a staff of two. This small team supports daily operations, statewide programs and events, continuing education provider and approver units, membership engagement, student outreach, partnerships, and advocacy support. The work is strengthened by a dedicated governing board of volunteer leaders who consistently give their time and expertise in service to the profession.
Despite limited staffing, SCNA continues to expand its reach and impact. This progress reflects a deep commitment to building an organization that is sustainable and positioned for long-term success. As membership grows, so will our capacity to serve nurses across the state.
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
Commitment takes many forms, and some individuals carry the work forward quietly and consistently over time. Rosie Robinson is one of those people.
In January 2026, Rosie celebrated 20 years with the South Carolina Nurses Association. During that time, she has supported the organization through leadership changes, staff transitions, multiple office moves, the sale of a building, and periods of reinvention and growth.
Although Rosie is not a nurse by training, her dedication to the profession has earned her the affectionate title of “nurse accomplice.” Her understanding of this work and her belief in its importance have helped sustain SCNA through moments of challenge and opportunity alike.
It is fitting that Rosie was the first recipient of the inaugural Judith C. Thompson Award, which honors service, commitment, and impact. Her legacy continues to shape the organization in meaningful ways, and we are grateful for her enduring contributions.
SCNA is strong and future-focused because of Rosie’s commitment to this association.
Rosie, we salute you!
Expanding Our Reach
SCNA’s growth extends beyond internal operations. We are strengthening relationships and building partnerships that expand our influence and presence locally, nationally, and globally.
This includes representation in Accra, Ghana through participation in the Diaspora Nursing Alliance Conference, continued collaboration with the American Nurses Association and national leadership initiatives, and expanded engagement with academic institutions to support students and faculty. We are also developing strategic partnerships with national organizations such as Johnson & Johnson and Healing Politics, as well as local partners like Waypoint Recovery Services, which now refers individuals to our PAPIN program.
Through these efforts, SCNA continues to increase visibility and ensure that nurses are present and influential in spaces where decisions are made.
Opportunities to Engage
SCNA is an active, engaged community, and there are many ways for nurses to participate. Members are encouraged to join webinars and educational offerings, take part in community events such as the SCNA 5K, attend the Annual Convention in Greenville, and become involved in advocacy efforts, committees, and local chapters.
No matter your availability or interests, there is a place for you within SCNA, and meaningful ways to contribute.
On a Personal Note
SCNA is never far from my mind. Whether in the halls of the South Carolina legislature, traveling across the country representing nurses from our state, meeting with nursing students, or engaging with leaders from many different sectors, this association is always present with me, in those spaces. SCNA is more than an organization, it is something that must be protected, nurtured, and thoughtfully grown. I’m deeply committed to not only who we are, but who we are becoming.
There is a deep sense of responsibility that comes with stewarding this work. It means speaking with pride about who we are and what we stand for, seeking opportunities to strengthen the association, and ensuring that others see the value and impact of the work being done on behalf of nurses. SCNA is woven into my leadership and nursing fabric, shaping how I show up and how I advocate.
The vision is simple and unwavering: to see SCNA become an unstoppable force for nurses in South Carolina. That responsibility is not taken lightly. This work matters deeply, and the opportunity to serve in this role, to help guide the organization’s strategy, growth, and visibility, is something I hold with profound respect and gratitude. It is truly an honor to serve this association and the nurses who make it strong.
Looking Ahead
SCNA continues to grow and evolve with a clear understanding of its purpose. We do not exist simply to work for nurses, but to collaborate with them, building a future shaped by shared leadership and collective action.
Soon, you will start to hear more about our plans for our 120th anniversary! That’s right, SCNA will be 120 years old in 2027. Be on the lookout for events related tour anniversary. We are going to celebrate all year long! We will be looking forward to your feedback and ideas. Let’s celebrate all that we have accomplished, and all there will be still left to do in 2027 and beyond!
The future of nursing in South Carolina is not something we are waiting to see unfold. It is something we are actively creating together, and this moment marks only the beginning.
Remember, The Power of NursesTM is all about you!
To learn more or to contact us, visit www.scnurses.org.
