President Letter

I am both humbled and honored to address you as the newly installed President of the Arizona Organization of Nurse Leaders (AzONL). I am truly inspired by the rich 40-year history of this organization and the incredible legacy of the nurses who paved the way for us. With a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude, I am excited to lead this organization forward as we promote safe, effective, and affordable patient care through its leadership and the advancement of our members as leaders within health care delivery systems. Together, let us continue the AzONL mission of transforming health care in Arizona through expert and influential nursing leadership.

I am fortunate to have a qualified and eager board serving with me, individuals who share a passion for advancing nursing, supporting our members, and championing the values that define our organization. Their dedication and expertise will undoubtedly play a crucial role in steering AzONL towards new heights. 2024 is a year full of opportunities and benefits for our members including state advocacy, education and resources, public policy updates, national affiliation and representation, career center and professional networking.

I would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to Teri Wicker, our Immediate Past President, who served with distinction from 2017 to 2023. Teri navigated the organization through many challenging times as we rebuilt the organization after COVID.  It is with great admiration that I acknowledge the momentum she and the team have created. As I step into the role of President, my commitment is to build on this strong foundation and continue the positive trajectory set forth by Teri. Together, with the support of our members, board of Directors and volunteers, I am eager to contribute to the ongoing success and growth of the AzONL. Once again, thank you, Teri, for your outstanding leadership, and I look forward to honoring your legacy.

As a not-for-profit organization, for us to achieve our robust goals we rely on the support of members like you.  In this spirit of collaboration and shared commitment, I invite you to consider stepping forward to run for an open board positions or volunteer for a committee such as event planning.  In-person events will be a cornerstone of our engagement strategy, with a focus on their success as key opportunities for connection and learning. We will be providing our members with an in-person leadership intensive in the Fall of 2024.

Next, to recognize nurses who are currently leading positive change in patient care, public policy, education and research throughout Arizona, the board is very excited to announce that we will be bringing back our Leadership in Action Award Program. We will be hosting our Annual Membership Meeting and Presentation of Leadership Action Awards on September 27th at the Waugh Auditorium at Mayo Clinic. More information about these events will be accessible on our website: azonl.nursingnetwork.com.

Over the next two years, my vision for the AzONL is rooted in ambitious goals that reflect our commitment to growth, influence, and excellence. Growing membership and welcoming nurses at all levels including but not limited to executives, directors, educators, front line nurses and those in un-official leadership positions and expand our community partnerships. Together, we can make a lasting impact on health care, policy, and the nursing profession in our great state.  Thank you for your trust, and I look forward to the incredible journey ahead.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Barendt DNP, RN, NE-BC

President of Arizona Organization of Nurse Leaders