President’s Message

I was seated among a group of nursing and non-nursing colleagues when this question was posed to me, “How do you do it? You engage in so many things, I just can’t figure out how you manage to lead and be effective.” My first thought was to silence all the negative thoughts surrounding the question and how it was stated. I took a deep breath and reminded myself of the purpose and the calling that God has for me. My response was quite clear; it is never about me as an individual, rather, about the vision and purpose set for me in such a time as this. Leadership challenges and adversity will occur when one does not understand the business of leadership. When given a privilege to lead and serve within an organization, one needs to self-reflect, silence their mind, and engage everyone as much as possible to positively affect change.

As the President of the Florida Nurses Association, I am reminded daily that being in this position is not by accident, but by hard work, inclusivity, determination, dedicated commitment, servant leadership, and a consistently cheerful outlook. Leadership is about promoting everyone’s interest and business within the association.

My mission in life is simply about giving meaning and purpose, to inspire others to be changemakers – to be the light to someone’s darkness with positive energy and enthusiasm. I challenge each of you to fully embrace your calling as nurses and leaders. I encourage you to join us in advancing the nursing profession by getting actively involved in FNA – by submitting an article, joining a committee or special interest group, by donating to the Political Action Committee or the Florida Nurses Foundation, by attending an event or educational webinar. There are many ways to get involved and support our mission of advancing the profession of nursing and promoting a healthy Florida.

In addition to getting involved in FNA, please engage in your civic duties. Local and general elections are coming soon; I encourage you to educate yourself and others about the issues important to the nursing profession. Use critical thinking and non-judgmental approaches when deciding for whom to vote. While I cannot tell you who to cast your vote for, I want to remind you of the fundamental principles and values that we stand for as a nursing profession. We must continue to advocate for health equity, diversity and inclusion, civility, cultural humility, and compassionate leadership that will embrace our collective human rights and shared nursing vision for years to come. Get involved now! Vote! Vote! Vote!

Your ultimate responsibility is not to man but to Humanity. My first year as President of FNA has been about learning, connecting, building and nurturing relationships, recognizing the individual talents, strengths, and leadership style of the wonderful Executive Director, Willa Fuller, the amazing staff, and talented board members in embracing and promoting reflective practices, and celebrating the ongoing progress and milestones we make daily as a dignified team.

I look forward to seeing as many members as possible and colleagues at the Membership Assembly at the beautiful Marriott Hutchinson Island Resort in Stuart, Florida, September 25-27, 2024.

With Warm Regards,
Marie O. Etienne, DNP, APRN, FNP, PNP, PLNC
President, Florida Nurses Association