MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Florida Nurses Association proudly celebrates a year of powerful advocacy, professional growth, and renewed engagement among nurses across the Sunshine State. From policy advocacy in Tallahassee to research and recognition events statewide, 2025 has marked a year of purpose, progress, and unity for Florida’s nursing profession. Our partnerships and collaborations with like-minded groups has created a synergy and a unity that radiates positivity and progress. We continue to collaborate and meet with QUIN Council, The Florida Coalition of Advanced Practice Nurses, The Florida Council of Nurse Education Administrators, Florida Association of Colleges of Nursing, Florida Organization of Nurse Leaders and various multicultural groups across the spectrum.  We have learned to bridge difficult issues and coalesce on issues we can work together on with is a testament to the strength of our profession.  

FNA led with conviction and strength during the 2025 Legislative Session, guided by its Legislative and Regulatory Policy Platform. The Association advanced critical issues including:

• Surgical smoke evacuation mandates for hospitals and ambulatory centers;
• Enhanced nursing education oversight through the Florida Board of Nursing to address our NCLEX pass rates and the potential for fraud and harm to Floridians. 
• Full practice authority for APRNs to expand access to;
• Safe staffing and workplace violence prevention measures; and
• Support for continued funding for the Florida Center for Nursing.

In February, FNA hosted the 2025 Advocacy Days in Tallahassee in partnership with Legacy Partner the Florida Nurse Practitioner Network, empowering nurses and students to share their stories directly with legislators. The Legislative Action Team and the Florida Nurses Political Action Committee (FNPAC) played pivotal roles in supporting candidates and policies that strengthen nursing practice and patient care statewide. 

The Florida Center for Nursing continues to be a powerful partner in providing evidence-based data regarding the nursing workforce in Florida. 

The spirit of innovation was on full display at the 11th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Conference, held July 26 in Orlando under the theme “Leading the Future Through Research and Evidence-Based Practice: A Call to Action.” Nurses from across Florida shared groundbreaking projects that advance safety, quality, and workforce resilience.  Nurses in Florida, continue to impress with their scientific approach to advancing practice and nursing knowledge. 

Another highlight of the year was the 2025 Clinical Excellence Story Conference, a powerful gathering dedicated to elevating the authentic voices of Florida’s nurses. This statewide event celebrated the art and impact of storytelling in clinical practice, showcasing narratives that illuminated courage, innovation, ethical decision-making, and the profound human connections at the heart of nursing. Through shared experiences, attendees explored how storytelling strengthens professional identity, enhances communication, and drives organizational culture change. The conference reinforced that nurses’ lived experiences are among our strongest tools for advancing clinical excellence, informing policy, and inspiring both peers and future generations.

In April, the 15th Annual South Region Symposium & Awards Ceremony brought together more than 200 nurses under the theme “Enhancing Nurse Well-Being Through Innovation and Technology.” This event highlighted Florida nurses’ leadership in clinical excellence, well-being, and technology-driven care solutions.

At the 2025 Membership Assembly in St. Petersburg (September 24-26), members voted on bylaws amendments, elected new board leaders, and debated vital reference proposals addressing topics such as workplace violence, care for vulnerable populations, and vaccine advocacy.  An Early Career Nurse Bootcamp was bursting at the seams with nurses from all levels of practice providing a forum for support mentoring and education. Nurses both new and seasoned called for a repeat of this lively offering.  Student Ambassadors from various schools added to the engagement for this special event. We ask that nursing schools consider this option to introduce your students to professional association life. 

Celebrations of nursing achievement punctuated the year. From the Icon Awards to regional recognitions and scholarships, FNA honored nurses who exemplify professional excellence, leadership, and compassion. These recognitions affirm the Association’s commitment to uplifting the profession and inspiring new generations of nurse leaders.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As FNA looks toward 2026, its priorities remain clear: advancing safe practice environments, promoting nurse well-being, fostering strong leadership pipelines, and converting advocacy into measurable policy victories. With continued collaboration through the Barbara Lumpkin Institute, the Florida Nurses Foundation, The Florida Nurses Political Action Committee and allied nursing organizations, the Association stands ready to build on 2025’s success and carry Florida nursing forward—united, visible, and empowered.

The FNA Board of Directors will be reviewing the current strategic plan in January and welcome any input from the membership. Our Special Interest Groups and committees have served as a catalyst for much of the success of our advocacy efforts and provided the impetus for the dynamic action of the past year. Please consider joining us in a group that is of interest to, and consider attending some in person events so we can meet you. As we move into 2026, we look forward to working alongside you to elevate our profession and strengthen the voice of every Florida nurse.