AAN President's Pages
A story, serendipity, and the power to act
In my first column for Nursing Outlook as President, I wrote about the power that a story can have on us, both emotionally and intellectually. I chose this topic because reflection is the first theme of the Academy's 50th Anniversary arch. Now, as 2022 comes to a close, I want to share a few reflections from fellows of the American Academy of Nursing who have chosen to honor me with their story.Can we calm the sea? A reflection on steadying the nursing workforce
“The breaking of a wave cannot explain the whole sea.” ― Vladimir NabokovIf not us, then who? nursing and climate change
Nursing has a critical role in addressing the looming public health challenge of climate change and its associated—and inequitable—adverse health consequences. The nursing profession is essential in communicating with patients, families, communities, and societies, as well as legislators and policymakers, to recognize and respond to climate change. The Academy's policy role positions us to take on the important work from the unique perspective of nurses as scientists, educators, caregivers, managers, and leaders as we identify and implement collective solutions.Bolstering our commitment to equity and anti-oppression
I agree with the Academy's Diversity and Inclusivity (D&I) Committee: equity, diversity, and inclusivity must live not only within our organization and across our Fellowship but also be reflected in our work. Our newly adopted Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) Statement (Academy, 2021), coupled with our strategic plan, will serve as our North Star, advancing our vision of healthy lives for all people. This is hard work, and we must do it: taking an active stance every day to dismantle oppressive and racist practices, wherever they occur in our professional environments, our communities, or globally.To learn: The power of reflection
Reflection can take many forms—writing, journaling, taking a long walk, daydreaming, talking with friends or colleagues—and it can provide us with insights that bring clarity and wisdom. It can spur a new direction or lead to a resolution for change. Reflection can also bring forth a wide range of emotions. Unlike the other kind of reflection— where light, sound, heat, or an image is sent back and not absorbed— our reflections often bring with them strongly felt sentiments. As the American Academy of Nursing (Academy) launches this first year of a three-year, 50th Anniversary commemoration, our theme for 2022 is reflection.
