Dear Maryland Nurses Association Members and Colleagues,
As I conclude my two-year term as President of the Maryland Nurses Association, I am filled with profound gratitude for the honor of serving this distinguished organization and our nursing profession. It has been a privilege to work alongside such dedicated professionals who are committed to advancing nursing practice and healthcare in Maryland.
During these past two years, we have achieved significant milestones that have strengthened our Association and expanded our influence across the state. These accomplishments reflect our collective commitment to innovation, collaboration, and advocacy.
One of our most notable achievements was the passage of the Structural Racism Training Bill signed by Gov. Wes Moore this past May—a landmark piece of legislation that demonstrates our profession’s leadership in addressing health equity and social justice. This achievement underscores the power of nursing advocacy and our responsibility to create a more equitable healthcare system for all Marylanders.
We have made substantial investments in our organizational infrastructure to better serve our members. The transition to a new publisher for the Maryland Nurse has enhanced the quality and reach of our official publication. Our updated website and new logo design reflect a modern, professional image that represents the dynamic nature of our Association. For the first time in our history, we hired a Director of Marketing and Communications, significantly elevating our presence on social media and through electronic messaging platforms, ensuring that we connect with members through the channels they use most. Thank you, Mr. Ron Santana, for making our brand and image shine.
Our collaborative relationships have flourished during this tenure with the hospitals, organizations, and universities. To name a few, I have strengthened partnerships with the Maryland Association of Nursing Students, the Indian American Nurses Association, the Philippine Nurses Association, Chief Nursing Officers, the Maryland Hospital Association, and the Maryland Board of Nursing. These collaborations have enabled us to amplify nursing’s voice in policy discussions and healthcare decision-making at the highest levels.
The Association has also adapted to the evolving workplace landscape by transitioning to a fully remote office model, allowing us to operate more efficiently while maintaining the high level of service our members deserve.
Our signature events have experienced remarkable growth. Nurses Night Out returned to Annapolis, reconnecting us with legislators and advocacy opportunities. Our annual conventions, now rotating to different cities across Maryland, continue to grow in attendance as we work toward reaching our pre-pandemic numbers. These gatherings remain vital opportunities for professional development, networking, and celebrating nursing excellence.
None of these achievements would have been possible without exceptional leadership and support. I extend my deepest appreciation to Dr. Barbara Biedrzycki, our Executive Director, whose unwavering commitment and meticulous preparation for each Board meeting kept our operations running smoothly and enabled me to lead effectively.
To the Board of Directors, committee members, and all MNA members: thank you for your trust, your engagement, and your dedication to our profession. The work we do matters to our patients, our communities, and the future of healthcare in Maryland.
As I pass the gavel to Dr. Nayna Philipsen, the incoming President for 2026-2027, I am confident that the Maryland Nurses Association will continue to thrive and lead. The foundation we have built together is strong, and our future is bright.
With sincere gratitude and respect,
Lou J. Bartolo, DNP, MSN, RN
President, Maryland Nurses Association
