Dear INA Members,
Past President, Iowa Nurses Association
As we enter this new chapter for the Iowa Nurses Association, I am grateful for the opportunity to share a few reflections with you during this important transition period. This message is offered in place of the traditional letter from the Executive Director as we move forward with our management services transition, and I appreciate the opportunity to connect with you in this way.
Serving as President of the Iowa Nurses Association has been one of the greatest professional honors of my career. I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished together—strengthening our advocacy voice, deepening member engagement, and positioning INA for a sustainable and impactful future. While my role has evolved, my commitment to this association and to the nurses of Iowa remains as strong as ever.
As Past President, I now serve on the Board in a non-voting capacity, which allows me the unique opportunity to support continuity, provide historical perspective, and help influence where INA is headed in the days, months, and years ahead. I am genuinely excited about this role. It is a privilege to work alongside our new President, Dawn Bowker, and the full Board of Directors as we build on a strong foundation and look boldly toward the future. The leadership, vision, and dedication around the board table give me great confidence in what lies ahead for INA.
This transition period is also a time of momentum. The future of INA is one of growth, relevance, and increased influence—particularly as healthcare continues to evolve and the voice of nursing becomes more critical than ever. Our association is well-positioned to lead, advocate, and innovate on behalf of nurses across all practice settings, and I am excited to remain actively engaged in shaping that direction.
The upcoming legislative session beginning in January will be a pivotal one for nursing and healthcare in Iowa. INA will continue to advocate for policies that support a strong nursing workforce, safe patient care, and a healthcare system where nurses are empowered to practice to the full extent of their education and training. One of the most impactful ways you can engage in this work is by participating in INA’s Legislative Day at the Capitol on February 11. Registration is now open, and I strongly encourage you to attend. Legislative Day is a powerful opportunity to connect with fellow nurses, engage directly with policymakers, and ensure that the voice of nursing is heard where decisions are made.
As I reflect on my time as President and look ahead to the future, I am filled with optimism and gratitude—optimism for what INA will continue to achieve, and gratitude for our members, volunteers, and leaders who make this association thrive. Thank you for your trust, your engagement, and your dedication to the profession of nursing. I look forward to continuing this work alongside you.
With appreciation,
Greg Opseth, MHA, BSN, RN
Past President, Iowa Nurses Association
