Honoring Black History Month: Recognizing the Legacy & Impact of Black Nurses

February is Black History Month, a time to honor the profound contributions of Black nurses and healthcare leaders who have shaped our profession. From Harriet Tubman, who served as a nurse and humanitarian, to Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first Black professional nurse in the U.S., their resilience, leadership, and advocacy paved the way for future generations such as myself to have the opportunity to lead and represent. I thank them for their courage during those difficult times and I am honored to continue to fight to ensure that we are intentional about inclusivity.?

At ISAPN, we celebrate this legacy by continuing the fight for health equity, representation, and access to care. This month, I encourage you to:

Learn & Share – Highlight the achievements of Black APRNs in your workplace and online. Engage in Advocacy – Support policies that advance health equity and address disparities in healthcare.

Together, we honor the past, celebrate the present, and ignite change for the future.

Nurses Day at the Capitol – April 9, 2025

Advocacy is the backbone of our profession, and there’s no better way to make your voice heard than by joining us at?Nurses Day at the Capitol on April 9. This is your opportunity to stand alongside fellow nurses, meet with legislators, and champion the policies that matter most to our profession and the patients we serve. Click the event below to register!

Pharmacology Conference – Registration Now Open!

Mark your calendars! Our Annual Pharmacology Conference is set for April 25, 2025—a full day of high-impact education designed to keep you informed and up-to-date on the latest in pharmacology. Registration is now open, so secure your spot today! Click the event below to register!

APRN 2 APRN Collaboration Calls

Navigating the complexities of practice, business, and leadership is easier when we do it together. Join our APRN-2-APRN calls, held every fourth Thursday of the month, for open discussions, networking, and shared insights from APRNs across Illinois. Whether you're seeking support, offering guidance, or just looking to connect, this is the space for you. Click the event below to register!

Membership Matters – We Need You!

Strength in numbers is more than just a phrase—it’s the key to ensuring APRNs have a powerful voice in Illinois. When we stand together, we advocate stronger, influence policy, and create meaningful change. If you haven’t renewed your membership or know a colleague who should join, now is the time! If you have any questions, or concerns please don't hesitate to contact me, April Odom, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC . I am committed to hearing what you have to say.?

? Become a Member https://join.isapn.org/membership/

Your engagement fuels ISAPN’s mission, and we’re grateful for your continued support. Let’s keep pushing forward—together.

See you soon at one of our upcoming events!

- April Odom, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC , ISAPN President