Maryland’s nursing community lit up Bethesda this October: energy high, ideas bold, and purpose unmistakable. The Maryland Nurses Association (MNA) proudly hosted its 122nd Annual Convention, Empowering Nurses: Elevating Health, on October 16 and 17, 2025, at the Bethesda Marriott. This year’s event brought together nurses, educators, students, and healthcare leaders from across the state for two days of professional development, networking, and celebration of nursing excellence in Maryland.
The event was opened by Convention Chairperson Nwamaka Oparaoji, DNP, MS, RN, who welcomed attendees alongside MNA President Lou Bartolo, DNP, MSN, RN. Their remarks set an inspiring and energizing tone, emphasizing unity, empowerment, and the essential role of nurses in shaping the future of healthcare.
The convention featured three dynamic keynote speakers, each offering a unique and impactful perspective on the nursing profession, including Cynda Rushton, PhD, RN, FAAN (Professor, Johns Hopkins University), Angela Beddoe (CEO, American Nurses Association), and Christine Grady, MSN, PhD (Retired Chair, Department of Bioethics, NIH Clinical Center).
Beyond the keynotes, the convention featured a comprehensive educational program with over 25 podium sessions and more than 40 poster presentations highlighting innovative research, evidence-based best practices, and emerging issues in nursing leadership, clinical care, education, and policy.
The exhibitor hall showcased representatives from regional health systems, academic institutions, and nursing organizations, creating valuable opportunities for networking and collaboration.
The Nursing Foundation of Maryland, the philanthropic arm of MNA, proudly awarded 18 scholarships to support current nursing students in their educational journeys. Additionally, the convention honored this year’s MNA Awards recipients, recognizing exceptional nurses and leaders who have made outstanding contributions to the profession.
The event also featured a touching ceremony led by the Maryland Nurse Honor Guard, who paid heartfelt tribute to nurses who have passed in recent years — a solemn and meaningful moment that highlighted the compassion and lasting legacy of Maryland’s nursing community.
The 122nd Annual Convention was a resounding success, reflecting the strength, dedication, and unity of nurses across the state. The Maryland Nurses Association extends its gratitude to all attendees, presenters, exhibitors, and sponsors for making this event an inspiring celebration of the power and purpose of nursing.
