As I reflect on my first year and a half serving as Executive Director of the South Carolina Nurses Association (SCNA), my heart is full of gratitude and excitement. It has been an incredible journey, and I’m humbled to lead such a dynamic and passionate organization dedicated to elevating and supporting the nursing profession in South Carolina. Together, we have achieved so much, and I’m thrilled to share some of the highlights with you as we continue to pave the way for a brighter future.
Celebrating Our Accomplishments
To say we’ve been busy is an understatement. Over the past 18 months, SCNA has been on a mission to enhance the professional lives of our members, advocate for meaningful change, and expand our reach. Let me walk you through some of our key accomplishments:
The Launch of the SCNA App: We’ve taken a bold step into the digital age by launching our very own SCNA App. This tool has become an essential resource for nurses across the state, offering easy access to news, continuing education (CE) opportunities, and a space to connect with fellow members.
Membership Growth: We are thrilled to announce that SCNA has increased its membership by nearly 1,000 nurses! This growth is a testament to the trust and value our association brings to nurses in South Carolina.
The First SCNA Nurse 5K Run: This inaugural event brought nurses, families, and community members together in a celebration of health and camaraderie. It was a joyous occasion and a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care and well-being within our profession.
Sweet Tea and Stethoscopes: We launched our own social media platform, where I, alongside our SCNA President, discuss all things SCNA. From policy updates to upcoming events, Sweet Tea and Stethoscopes has become a fun and engaging way to stay connected with our members. Check us out on our Facebook and Instagram pages. We hope to expand to LinkedIn this year.
A Statewide Presence: Increasing our physical footprint has been a priority. This year, we participated in hospital events, nursing school initiatives, and community gatherings across the state, ensuring SCNA remains visible and accessible to all nurses.
Advocating for Important Legislation: SCNA has been steadfast in supporting policies that benefit nurses and patients alike. We played an active role in backing the Compassionate Care Act which focused on Medical Cannabis access, ensuring nurses’ voices are heard at the legislative table around this important topic.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we prepare for the new year, our vision is clear: SCNA will continue to lead with purpose and determination. We have big goals for 2025, and with your support, I know we can achieve them. Here’s a glimpse of what’s on the horizon:
Full Practice Authority: One of our top priorities for 2025 is passing legislation to grant full practice authority for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). This critical change will empower nurses to practice to the full extent of their training and improve access to care for patients across South Carolina. We are committed to seeing this through to the finish line. For more information on our bills, please visit our website at ww.scnurses.org and click on the advocacy tab.
Workplace Violence: We are committed to safe working environments for nurses. We are partnering with several other organizations to support legislation ensuring safe workplaces, increased penalties for violent offenses against nurses, and ongoing mental health support for nurses who have experienced violence at work.
Workforce Development: Working with our partners at AHEC and other organizations, we have been on a journey to find common sense solutions to workforce shortages and overall workforce pipelines in the healthcare space. We understand the need for out-of-the-box ideas, and together, with our partners, we are finding our path forward.
Enhanced Continuing Education: We’ll be expanding our CE offerings, providing more opportunities for nurses to learn and grow both online and in person. Whether through webinars, workshops, or conferences, SCNA is dedicated to ensuring our members have access to the latest knowledge and skills.
Networking and Collaboration: Partnering with leaders in the pharmaceutical and technology industries, as well as our valued organizational affiliates, we aim to create even more opportunities for networking and professional development.
Increased Visibility: SCNA will continue strengthening relationships with key organizations like the South Carolina Department of Public Health, the South Carolina Hospital Association, and community groups statewide. Our participation in national coalitions will also ensure that South Carolina nurses have a voice on the national stage.
Community Engagement: From health fairs to advocacy events, SCNA will maintain a strong presence at community events across the state, solidifying our commitment to the nurses and communities we serve.
All Gas, No Breaks
In 2025, we’re putting our foot on the gas and pressing it all the way down. This is the year to connect, engage, and grow—together. We’re building on our momentum and striving to thrive in every sense of the word. Nurses, I encourage you to:
Get Involved: Whether it’s attending an SCNA event, volunteering, or sharing your expertise, your participation matters.
Stay Engaged: Follow us on Sweet Tea and Stethoscopes, explore the SCNA App, get into a community on the SCNA website and stay updated on our advocacy efforts.
Thrive Together: Let’s work collectively to improve the state of nursing in South Carolina. Your contributions make all the difference.
A Bright Future
My excitement for what lies ahead is unwavering, and I hope it is infectious. Together, we are building an SCNA that is innovative, inclusive, and impactful. I am honored to stand alongside each of you as we advance the profession of nursing and improve healthcare for all South Carolinians.
Let’s Thrive in 2025!
With gratitude and enthusiasm,
T.K.
