A Warm Welcome To Our Newly Elected Leaders!

I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected NJSNA State Board, Region, and Committee members! This incredible achievement reflects the dedication, skill, and vision each of you brings to the table.

You now hold the torch for guiding our association, advocating tirelessly for the well-being of both nurses and patients across New Jersey.  As we stand with you as you lead NJSNA into a new chapter and eagerly anticipate the positive changes ahead. Congratulations once again on this well-deserved accomplishment!

NJ Nurse Recognition & Accolades

Congratulations!

New Jersey State Nurses Association was awarded the prestigious Philippine Nurses Association of NJ Presidential Award in recognition of our outstanding support and dedication. The Award also recognized NJSNA’s commitment to advancing the nursing profession in New Jersey, which is truly commendable.  PNANJ was honored to celebrate our invaluable contributions.

Geraldine Balandan, LPN, was acknowledged as a new member of the NJSNA LPN Forum and appointed to the New Jersey Collaborating Center for Nursing (NJCCN) Advisory Board. Consequently, the Honorable Craig Coughlin, Speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly, appointed Geraldine to the NJCCN Board.

Megan Chan, BSN, RN, MEDSURG-BC, was recently recognized by the Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA) as an Advocacy Leader at Aspen University Representing the State of New Jersey. The GNSA Advocacy Leaders, with two representatives from each state, amplify American Association  College of Nursing advocacy efforts on behalf of graduate nursing students.

Sheila Cadwell,  BSN, RN, CSN, FNASN was awarded the American School Health Association 2024 “School Health Professional of the Year.” An award from the American School Health Association (ASHA) recognizes individuals or groups that are making a difference in students’ lives and creating healthier school communities.

Tara Heagle, PHD, RN, was appointed by the Mayor of Hamilton Township, NJ to a three-year term on the Advisory Commission on Green Initiatives for the Hamilton Township Environmental Commission. In addition, Tara is the recipient of the 2024 Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN). This recognition is in celebration of the contributions to the nursing profession in leadership, research, and clinical excellence

Geraldine, Megan, Sheila, and Tara, thank you for advancing the nursing profession and promoting healthier communities.

New Jersey State Nurses Association 2024 Professional Conference

Were you able to attend our recent NJSNA Professional Conference? If you were, thank you! We hope you enjoyed a day filled with knowledge sharing, networking opportunities and 7.0 Contact hours for all attendees. Your presence contributed to the event’s success, and we are grateful for your attendance and participation.

NJSNA 2024 Professional Conference Highlights

October 3rd, 2024

•  To Catch a Rising Star- Comedy Club

October 4th, 2024

•  Dr. Ernest Grant & Dr. Becky Paton- Keynote Speakers
•  Legislation Update –
  •  David Smith-Princeton Public Affairs Group-
  •  Judy Schmidt- NJSNA
•  Healthy Nurse Healthy NJ
  •  Lisa Ertle, MSN, FNP-C
  •  Reaching Your Potential Through Self Compassion
• Supporting NJ Nurses: NJ-NEW Initiatives
  •  Jennifer Polakowski, MPA, Assistant Director, NJ-NEW
  •  Pamela B. de Cordova, PhD, RN-BC
•  NJSNA Annual Meeting
  •  Bylaws-2024-Approved Updates
•  Resolutions- “Passed”
  • Optimal Staffing
  • Men’s Health
• 2025-2026 Nominations and Elections
  •  Nominations accepted

Stay tuned for information regarding our 2025 Professional Conference. Remember, your participation is essential in making this event successful.

As I close my last article for the NJ Nurse as president, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the commitment and resilience each of you brings to the nursing profession. What ever you happened to be doing at this very moment, know that your work as a professional Registered Nurse  is valued. Your dedication to the profession leaves a lasting impact on patients, families, and your colleagues. Take time to reflect on the importance of nursing and what you accomplish every day.

Warm Regards,