Welcome to our 12th PNA-IN Induction of Officers, Awards, & Fundraising event!

 

Tonight, I’d like to focus on the state of wellbeing of PNA-IN. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID 19 pandemic, our officers and members really like what we are doing in our association. We have forged meaningful collaborations with the PNAA, ISNA, IU Health, IU School of Nursing, Indiana Hospital CNEs, IU Bowen Center for Health Workforce Research & Policy that enabled us to achieve success in our legislative advocacy: the passage of HB 1003 and its’ implementation. The bill includes expanded pathways for RN licensure of foreign educated nurses (FENs) in Indiana making it easier for qualified FENs to practice nursing in our state.

 

PNA-IN creates a culture of recognition and create celebratory events like tonight where we value and recognize the achievements, recognize and honor these individuals from PNAA & PNA-IN, our nursing leaders from hospitals, ISNA & Educators for their support & achievements, including our Governor and legislators. Thus, we are honoring and celebrating them tonight.  

 

Financially, PNA-IN is thriving. Thanks to our sponsors, donors, patrons and colleagues who have supported our fundraising event and to all those participating in this event with us tonight. Thanks also, to Mrs. Violeta McKee’s family specially her daughters Michelle, PNA-IN Secretary & Vicky Dorotheo who honored their Mom’s Memory by funding our 2022 MSN Education Grant.

 

Our officers and members and our families and friends support one another to maintain physical wellbeing. They have the energy to get things done. We like the community where we live. We contribute to the wellbeing of our fellow Hoosiers: by providing excellent nursing care for those of us who are still working in hospitals, long term care and rehab, clinics, etc. and by providing Free Wellness Screenings, Health Promotion, and Medical Consultation at local Festivals and community events. We thank our community outreach partners: Barangay Club of Indiana, PTS Diagnostics, IPMA, Nationalities Council of Indiana, PAMET, Philippine Cultural Center, especially our very own PNAA President Dr. Gloria Lamela Beriones & Ren, PNA-IN EB & members & NPs past and present. We welcome and support our new FENs as they transition their nursing practice & way of living from the Philippines to the U. S.

 

Sincerely,

Matilde “Mattie” delos Santos Upano, MSN, RN, FNP-BC