September 18, 2019 | NLN CEO Update on Dates & Deadlines

It seems to me, colleagues, that I’m always talking about dates and deadlines — and if you scroll down after you read each Member Update, you'll notice that we try to provide a concise list of our many upcoming faculty development opportunities, along with links of interest to nursing education and the NLN in the news. It's true. I'm always trying to seek a balance between keeping you informed and sharing topics of great importance to nursing and nursing education. On certain days, these dual goals merge beautifully — and today is one of those days as I tell you about upcoming deadlines and the important topics of nursing leadership and excellence in nursing education.

Coming up on October 7 is the deadline for applications to the NLN Leadership Institute, our three-part personalized, supportive program for those new to leadership positions (LEAD); for experienced simulation educators who aspire to a leadership role; and for executive leaders in education or practice who seek to maximize their leadership potential. It is important to remember that leadership skills can be taught. The elements we provide through the NLN Leadership Institute — our world-class faculty, dynamic curricula, and experiential learning opportunities with individual and group coaching — are well worth your investment of time and funds. Please take a moment to read about this valuable NLN program. Learn how participation will help you develop a plan for your personal leadership journey, developing your career and learning the strategies and techniques that will help you on your way.

At the NLN we also know that recognition from our peers is an important aspect of leadership. When you stop by the NLN booth at the NLN Education Summit next week — yes, the time for the Summit is just about here — you will meet representatives from two NLN recognition programs: Our Centers of Excellence Program (COE) and the NLN Academy for Nursing Education. They will be happy to talk with you about their respective programs and what is involved in the application process. Yes, both programs require applications, and both involve deadlines, so let me give you a bit more information so that you do not miss out.

A letter indicating intent to apply as an NLN Center of Excellence must be submitted by October 15. The COE program recognizes nursing schools whose faculty are doing the outstanding work that sets them apart from others. COE designation for schools is based on a sustained demonstration of excellence in faculty development, nursing education research, or student learning and professional development. We also recognize health care organizations that promote the academic progression of nurses. If your school partners with such a health care organization, please share information about our program. Collaboration through partnership provides the highest quality students, resulting in top-level nursing graduates.

Designation as a COE entails recognition of collective leadership. When we recognize schools and health care institutions at the Honors Convocation and Awards Ceremony at each Summit, it is not only the dean or director who comes to the stage for a handshake and photo opportunity — it is often several or even all faculty members, and their pride is evident. See which schools we are recognizing this year and think about stepping forward for 2020.

At the Honors Convocation we also recognize the new members of the NLN Academy for Nursing Education. You have more time to apply for this honor — the application period opens October 15 and closes February 15, 2020, but think about it — is this the year you deserve recognition for your leadership journey? The Academy recognizes outstanding individuals in and outside the profession who not only have contributed in the past to nursing education in sustained and significant ways but will continue to provide visionary leadership in nursing education and support us in our mission. Notice how often the leaders you admire proudly bear the credential ANEF — fellow in the NLN Academy of Nursing Education. Don't be shy — if you deserve it, apply to be an ANEF in 2020!

As you may have gathered, I feel strongly about the importance of recognition for nurse educators within the nursing community and beyond. For this reason, when Modern Healthcare opens voting each year for the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare, I believe it is important to make sure nurses are represented. Entries are accepted from all sectors of the health care industry and I am gratified that once again I am on the ballot as your representative. Reader voting has begun and ends October 7. It only takes a moment to vote. Just scroll through the long list of names and look for me — Beverly Malone — as well as my other nurse colleagues. There are only a few nurses on the list.

Finally, the biggest date of the NLN year is happening next week at the National Harbor near Washington, DC. That is, of course, The NLN North Star: Purpose, Power, & Passion. If you are in driving distance and have not yet registered for the NLN Education Summit 2019, feel free to register onsite — you may even want to join us for one of the three eventful, jam-packed days ahead (September 26–28). Don't forget the incredible Gala at the end, on Saturday night.

I'll take a small break right after the Summit and will be back with my next Member Update on October 16, ready to tell you about all our plans for the year ahead. 2020 is the World Health Organization’s Year of the Nurse and Midwife, with the celebration of Florence Nightingale's 200^th birthday. Let's see each other at Summit 2019 and start preparing for the fascinating year ahead.