The Alberta Association of Nurses Welcomes a New President

Karen has worked in the Alberta and U.S. healthcare systems for over 3 decades as a Registered Nurse, a healthcare leader, a clinical educator, a university lecturer, a researcher, a healthcare consultant, and a nurse entrepreneur. Over the years, she has gained experience in multiple areas that include critical care, emergency care, cardiac care, quality management, clinical education, acute and primary care clinical operations, healthcare workforce strategy, and leadership development.

?As a nurse registered in Alberta, she became aware of the impending separation of the College and the Association in 2020 and was thrilled to see the Association appear on Twitter in April of this year and to see the official virtual launch in May.

?Karen believes in the collective power of the AAN, and encourages all Alberta nurses to join. She shares, “We foster strength and resilience through a support network there to help each other with challenges and provide opportunities. We provide a platform for change informed by our membership—giving you a voice in health and nursing policy and practice. We propel nurses forward toward your version of success by providing professional growth and development opportunities. And we help you make ends meet through access to substantial member-only discounts and savings”

?Karen envisions a future where nurses have an active positive impact on the health and wellness of Albertans by practicing to the full extent of their education and training, and by leading for change in our health system—functioning as leaders, influencers, and full partners in redesigning and improving healthcare across the province.

?Together, we have the ability to make things better for ourselves, for our families, and for our communities by harnessing the power of nursing in this province.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to act as the AAN Board President and am honoured and thrilled to be able to work with incredible nurses across the province to advance our professions, provide a voice for nurses, and help each other grow and develop into the best versions of ourselves. This collective strength of nurses brings me a renewed hope and excitement for the future.” – Karen Schmaltz, RN, DSocSci, MS, BScN, CHE

Learn more about the AAN Leadership Team at https://albertanursing.ca/about-aan/leadership/.