As the Fall season begins to unfold, there are many exciting processes in the works at AAENP to support our members in the coming months. The inaugural nominations and elections process has launched, and an excellent slate of qualified candidates has been released to members for voting in early October. This is an important opportunity for members to assert their informed professional opinion to determine future leadership and the direction that AAENP will take over the next decade. Serving on a national board was never a consideration or desire in my early career as an emergency NP. However, over time I came to understand and embrace a personal responsibility to contribute to my specialty and not rely on the work of others to make decisions that would impact my practice. If you have not already chosen to do so, I hope you will consider serving on an AAENP committee or taking part in other service opportunities.

Applications are pouring in for the Kyle Kincaid Rural Emergency Care Memorial Scholarship. If you know of a graduate student who meets the criteria for the award, please encourage them to apply by September 30th. Additionally, the preparations for EmergNP 2025 are moving forward thanks to our dedicated Conference Planning committee members. This team is working diligently to assemble a robust slate of educational content to support NPs in diverse emergency care settings & offer networking with colleagues in Dallas March 13 – 15, 2025. Please make plans now to attend the conference before you get “roped in” to a work schedule!

Today, I watched a video of an ED nurse saving a man from imminent drowning due to flooding from the most recent hurricane to make landfall in Louisiana. This brought tears to my eyes as it reminded me of the sacrifices that exceptional individuals just like you, dedicated ENPs and other members of the emergency team make every day whether on or off duty. Most of us provided care during the Pandemic and continue to hold strong as challenges like ED boarding and workplace violence persist. Why would anyone continue to work in this often chaotic environment? Because WE CARE!! We care about patients, their families, and our communities. We care about those who have nowhere else to go but to us for help. Among our colleagues, there are those suffering symptoms of compassion fatigue and burnout. It is important that we recognize the signs of burnout in ourselves and in our peers. If you see this occurring, seek care or offer support and assistance to others in need. You are vital to the provision of compassionate, safe and quality emergency care. Be kind to yourself and others. BE THE DIFFERENCE.

With warmest regards,