The April 7, 2024, NCAA Championship victory of The University of South Carolina Women’s Basketball team left a lasting imprint on our hearts and minds. Coach Dawn Staley’s words, echoing the sentiment of “Uncommon Favor,” resonated far beyond the basketball court. Those words translated in the halls of hospitals, clinics, and care facilities across South Carolina, where nurses embody this spirit daily.

As nurses, we understand the essence of Uncommon Favor. Our profession is a testament to perseverance, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Each day, we confront challenges that seem insurmountable, yet we rise to the occasion with unwavering faith, focus, and love for our craft.

Just like Coach Staley’s team, we too face odds that may seem overwhelming. Whether it’s battling the nursing shortage, advocating for legislative changes to empower our profession, or pioneering innovative healthcare strategies, we are no strangers to adversity. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of trial that we witness the true power of Uncommon Favor.

We witness it in the lives we touch, the trajectories we alter, and the futures we shape. It’s in the miraculous recoveries, the prevention of catastrophic events, the holding of a hand at the final moment of life, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in patient care. Regardless of our geographical location or alma mater, the recent championship win united all South Carolinians in pride and celebration. It served as a reminder that collective victories transcend boundaries and affiliations. It also reminded us that victories are hard-fought and the only way to achieve them is with a constant drive to improve. The South Carolina Women never settled into their undefeated record after each game, instead they continued to keep their focus on the goal of making it to the championship game. Nurses of South Carolina, we must embody that same energy. We must remain laser-focused on improving our profession and the health of those we serve.

Just as the basketball championship was a win for our state, our profession’s victories are wins for all of us. When the profession of nursing triumphs, it paves the way for a brighter future, not just for individuals but for entire communities. That’s why membership and engagement in the South Carolina Nurses Association (SCNA) is paramount.

As the state’s premier nursing association, we at SCNA are always considering the nurse FIRST! We are not just advocates; we are architects of change. We strive to elevate nursing practice, education, and advocacy to unprecedented heights. We invite every nurse to join us in this noble endeavor. Let us raise our voices, collaborate on solutions, and unlock levels of Uncommon Favor that exceed our wildest imaginations.

Together, we can propel nursing forward, ushering in an era of unparalleled excellence and innovation. Let us embrace the challenge, embrace the opportunity, and embrace the Uncommon Favor that awaits us on this remarkable journey.

Consider joining SCNA today, to become a vital part of this meaningful pursuit. We look forward to serving you.

To Join SCNA go to www.scnurses.org.