There is so much to celebrate within Iowa nursing. Every day, nurses bring knowledge, compassion, courage, and leadership to patients, families, organizations, and communities across our state. Whether providing care at the bedside, educating the next generation, leading healthcare teams, advancing research, or advocating for meaningful change, Iowa’s nurses continue to demonstrate the extraordinary impact of our profession.

This fall, we will come together to honor that impact during the Iowa Nurses Association’s Stronger Together celebration at the Gateway Hotel & Conference Center in Ames. On the evening of Tuesday, October 27, we will recognize outstanding nurses and healthcare partners during our annual Awards Ceremony. On Wednesday, October 28, we will gather for the INA Annual Conference—a day dedicated to learning, connection, inspiration, and the shared purpose that unites us as nurses.

The theme Stronger Together could not be more fitting. Nursing is strongest when we celebrate one another, support one another, and raise our collective voice. I hope you will join us in Ames as we recognize the remarkable work happening throughout our profession and renew our commitment to the future of nursing in Iowa.

That future is also being shaped through the work of our Membership Engagement Task Force, which is using member feedback to develop recommendations for 2027 and beyond. Members will have another opportunity to help shape INA’s future during our virtual Membership Assembly on Friday, December 11, at 12:00 p.m. via Zoom, which will include a hearing on proposed changes to the INA Bylaws.

Finally, as the midterm elections approach, I encourage every eligible voter to participate. Nurses understand the importance of advocacy and the impact that decisions made by elected leaders can have on our patients, communities, and profession. This election season, I encourage you to use your voice, participate in the democratic process, and make your voice heard by casting your ballot.

We have much to be proud of, much to look forward to, and much that we can accomplish together. Thank you for the work you do, the leadership you demonstrate, and the difference you make each day.

Let us continue to celebrate nursing, advocate for our profession, and move forward—Stronger Together.