BY ANDREA BIRDEN, RN and MONICA AKINS, RN, GUEST WRITERS TO THE TIMES
SAN FRANCISCO, CA. – The Central Florida Black Nurses Association of Orlando, Inc. (CFNBA) significantly impacted the 52nd National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Annual Institute and Conference. The conference was held from July 23- July 28, 2024 in San Francisco, California. This year’s conference was marked by the chartering of four new chapters, highlighting Black nurses ongoing growth and influence nationwide. The 2024 theme for the conference was “Advancing Health Care Across the Lifespan: Through Re-Imaging Nursing and Human Caring”.
CFBNA was well-represented, with seven members in attendance, five of whom served as official delegates. These dedicated professionals participated in various educational sessions including leadership, mentoring, and health policy.
In addition to the educational opportunities, the conference also emphasized health awareness. Members wore red on Friday to promote heart health awareness and blue on Saturday for men’s health awareness. These color-coordinated efforts underscored the NBNA’s commitment to addressing critical health issues within the underserved communities. Another attire themed event was the President’s Gala on Saturday night, which featured a Bridgerton theme.
Several highlights and recognized accomplishments during the conference included poster presentation by Dr. Judith Clark; Dr. Jennifer Sankey-Battles second appointment as an advisor for the fellows and leadership program with Johnson and Johnson; Mrs. Constance Brown induction into the inaugural Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing Program; and CFBNA being awarded the mid-size chapter community service award.
During the Ecumenical service, NBNA honored the lives of members that transitioned including two members from CFBNA: Ms. Erma Jean King and Past President Ms. Elaine Caldwell.
The association’s ongoing commitment to professional development, health advocacy, and community service continues to have a profound impact locally and nationally.
The National Black Nurses Association annual conference for 2025 will be will take place from August 5 – 10, 2025, in Dallas, TX. For more information on volunteering with or joining Central Florida Black Nurses Association of Orlando, Inc., please submit an email with contact information to [email protected] or call 407-476-6862.
