Candidate for President-elect and ANA Representative Name: Judith M. Malachowski, PhD, RN, CNE GNA Chapter: Old Capital Chapter of GNA Statement: I believe that the major issue facing the nursing profession is the need for engagement: with our professional organization and with the arenas that impact our profession. The position of President-Elect offers a two-year mentorship for the person in that role to look and listen in preparation for the office of President. It also offers a unique opportunity to focus on a specific professional initiative that will build the organization. The President-Elect must look for others interested in connecting with the association, and listen to members of various stakeholder groups and elected officials. Working closely with the President, the President-Elect prepares for a smooth transition into the role of the President. In my four years as Director of Legislation and Public Policy for GNA, I have had the opportunity to interact with so many passionate nurses. I ve written about building a leader, collaboration, and grassroots. I ve chronicled my involvement with many individuals and organizations that play key roles in the strength of nurses and nursing in Georgia. I chaired a group of thoughtful, committed, and proactive nurses who want to advocate for professional nursing. If elected as President-Elect for Georgia Nurses Association, I would work to expand nurses active involvement in the issues facing our profession. Present Position: Associate Dean, College of Health Sciences, Georgia College & State University PhD University of Virginia MSN/MPA West Virginia University BSN Duquesne University Board Member Southern Regional Education Board Council on Collegiate Education for Nursing 2014-current GNA Director, Legislation & Public Policy 2009-2013 GNA Southwest Regional Coordinator 2005-2007 President GNA District 12 2001-2003 Delegate GNA annual convention 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Vice President/President Mu Pi Chapter-Sigma Theta Tau, International 2005-2006,2006-2007 Fellow American Nurses Advocacy Institute 2011-2012
Candidate for Secretary and First Alternate ANA Representative Name: Joseph Vincent Potts, BSN, RN GNA Chapter: Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA Statement: The biggest issue facing nursing is that so many nurses are not taking an active role in helping to shape and support their profession. I refuse to be a part of that problem. This is why I am running for the position of Secretary on the GNA Board of Directors. As Secretary I will work diligently to ensure that the hard work of the Board of Directors is documented and communicated to the membership as prescribed in the bylaws. I will also use the credibility I have gained from my past experiences with state and national nursing leaders to represent GNA and it s members. Being a member of Georgia Nurses Association is about participating in something larger than myself. Running for Secretary represents my deeper commitment to the association and the profession. I hope that you choose me as your Secretary as we continue to work toward the continued growth and improvement of GNA. If you have any questions, or would like to get to know me a little better, please feel free to connect with me on Facebook or Linkedin. Thank You. Present Position: Clinical Training Specialist, Anthem Healthcare Bachelors of Science University of North Florida Member, GNA Legislative Committee President National Student Nurses Association 2012-2013 Member ANA Congress on Nursing Practice and Economics 2012-2013
Candidate for Secretary and First Alternate ANA Representative Name: Thea Delora Sullivan, MBA, BSN, RN GNA Chapter: Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA Statement: My diverse nursing experience over the last 10 years has shaped my perspective as a nursing leader and a change agent within the healthcare environment. As our profession focuses on the future, it is vital to build innovative and sustainable methods for preparing nurses to meet the challenges posed by increasing patient and organizational complexities of daily practice. I believe through collaborative relationships with nursing and non-nursing partners, we can develop inter professional methods for promoting effective and positive changes. My goal is to be an active member of the GNA board. I want to ensure excellent communication at the state level, within the GNA chapters and with all GNA members. If elected, I will model and promote transparency and collegiality. I will use my clinical and leadership expertise to make informed decisions that are reflective of the ideals and values of the GNA membership. Present Position: Patient Care Manager, Primary Care- Geriatric Extended Care Services Department Veterans Affairs MBA- Masters in Business Administration Walden University BSN- Bachelors of Science in Nursing University of Alabama at Birmingham Northwest Metro Chapter of GNA - President Elect National Foundation for Transplants - Memphis, TN Campaign Chairperson 9/2014 to Present Post Baccalaureate Nursing Residency (PBNR) Oversight Committee Atlanta VA Medical Center- Quality Improvement Council (Nursing Shared Governance) - Chair
Candidate for Treasurer and Second Alternate ANA Representative Name: Jill E. Williams, RN, MSN, MCSM GNA Chapter: Informatics Chapter of GNA Statement: Having served as Treasurer for GNA and the GNF, I feel I have the experience to lead the GNA Finance Committee and be able to respond to members concerns regarding their fiduciary responsibility. GNA continues to operate on a balanced budget. The GNA Finance committee meets regularly to discuss all aspects of GNA Finances. It has been a pleasure to serve the GNA membership in this position and am hoping the GNA members will continue to support me so I may continue to server as their Treasurer. Present Position: MIDAS+ System Manager/Clinical Analyst, Meadows Regional Medical Center Masters in Nursing Georgia College and State University Bachelors in Nursing Georgia College and State University Associate's in Nursing Mississippi Community College GNA Treasurer 2014 present GNA Bylaws Chair 2013 present GNA Treasurer 2009-2012 GNA Bylaws Chair 1998 2000 President GNA District 17 1996-1998
Candidate for Director Leadership Development and Third Alternate ANA Representative Name: Kathy Bailey Williams, MA, BSN, RN Statement: The Georgia Nurses Association mission, Nurses shaping the future of professional nursing for a healthier Georgia, has nursing leadership at the core. This is an extremely important time in our nursing profession, as we reflect on and direct our efforts toward preparing future nursing leaders in Georgia and in this nation. Advancing nursing to the next dimension, will require the creation of a pipeline of nursing leaders, who can influence the profession and continue to foster high standards of nursing, across the continuum of care. As we think about the number of nursing leaders who will be retiring in the near future, we must continue to focus our attention on succession planning, and developing nursing leaders who will remember one of the most important aspects of nursing, which is, caring for our patients. It is essential that we impart our knowledge, foster an environment to empower, develop, and support the next generation of nurses, to advance their education and career. Nurses must continue to engage in research, evidence based-practice, and innovation, as they collaborate with interprofessionals, organizations, and the community to provide, safe, quality care, and healing environments for patients, that will yield extraordinary clinical outcomes. As we develop our nursing leaders, we must prepared them, to deal with the complexity of health care, make substantial contributions, and truly represent the nursing profession with advocacy, strength, knowledge, power, and visionary leadership. If elected as Director of Leadership Development, I commit to building opportunities and avenues for advancement of future leaders and sustain support of experienced leaders. I will also perform my duties with integrity, and excellence, upholding the GNA Bylaws. Present Position: Associate Nurse Executive, Primary Care Service Line, Atlanta VA Medical Center-2008 to present Masters Degree in Management and Human Resources Webster University, St. Louis Missouri- 1992 Bachelor Degree in Nursing Northwestern State University, Natchitoches, Louisiana- 1983 GNA Director of Leadership Development-2014-2015 Chi Eta Phi Sorority Incorporated, Mu Phi Chapter- Anti-Basileus (Vice President)-2015
Candidate for Director Membership Development Name: Mary A Watson, RN GNA Chapter: Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA Statement: Today's complex health care system demands a welleducated workforce! Our nurses must be committed enough to challenge themselves and take advantage of the educational opportunities available to them. This strategic action will enable the nurses to advance academically, have meaningful dialogue with interdisciplinary teams of medical experts, collaborate with progressive peers, and ultimately be able to more effectively influence patient outcomes. Let us take the first step in preparing and fostering a culture of inclusiveness by engaging, mentoring, and embracing the upcoming future leaders. GNA membership is paramount to our nursing profession. We must speak with "One Voice" and courageously advocate for Patients. As visionaries, we are a nursing Body making an investment in our future and remaining steadfast in Nursing excellence. If I am elected I will fulfill the responsibilities of Director of Membership Development as outlined in the bylaws of GNA. Present Position: Relief In House Supervisor, Critical Care Float Nurse, US Department Of Veteran Affairs Masters Oklahoma University Bachelor Of Science Indiana University GNA Director of Membership Development 2013-2015 Secretary Asian Pacific AACN 1992-1994
Candidate for Director Nursing Practice & Advocacy Name: Sherry Sims, RN, MSN GNA Chapter: Old Capital Chapter Statement: Quality of healthcare and safety in healthcare are the forefront topics in the restructuring of the healthcare system. Georgia Nurses Association has always supported nurses and the promotion of safe and healthy work environments. My belief is the collaboration and coordination with the related specialty nursing groups, other organizations and health professions on matters related to nursing practice, education, administration, research and concerns in special can provide the leadership to guide the direction of change to obtain quality and safety healthcare goals in Georgia and America. I believe with the support and resources that are available the gap between what we know and what we do can be bridged by supportive change via collaborative learning. I wonder how many of the 110,000 plus registered nurses in Georgia know where our licensure fees actually go. The Georgia Nurses Association, in collaboration with the Georgia Board Nurses, discovered this and is encouraging the legislators to make changes to support nursing practice. The resources that have not been allocated appropriately to allow the Georgia Board of Nursing to have the resources needed to efficiently govern nursing need to be investigated and addressed. I would like to serve in the role of Director of Nursing Practice to focus on these issues. Present Position: Assistant Professor of Nursing, Middle Georgia State College Master of Science Nursing Georgia College and State University, Millegeville, GA Bachelor of Science Nursing Georgia Southwestern University, Americus, GA Associate Degree in Nursing Middle Georgia State College GNA Director of Nursing Practice & Advocacy 2014-2015 GNA Intervention Program State Chair Person 2013-2015 Georgia Nurses Association Intervention Program State Committee 2005-2015 Georgia Nurses Association Intervention Program Chair elect 2010-2013
Candidate for Director - Staff Nurse Name: Joanne Patrice Butler, BSN, RN GNA Chapter: Metro Atlanta Chapter Statement: Today the nursing profession is continuously changing due to advancements in medical science, evidence based practice and technology. As such, we must remain abreast of healthcare trends that influence the way we deliver care to meet the demands of our patients, families and communities. There are realities we must acknowledge such as: the growing shortage of staff nurses in direct patient care, the lack of nurse educators to prepare a workforce for tomorrow, and suboptimal work conditions for nurses. These major issues are not uncommon to our profession but to achieve the triple aim of health care, we must set as a priority, efforts that protect the profession and advance the development of nurses in Georgia. Alarmingly, Georgia ranks as 42nd in having the worst nursing shortage and declared the most fragile and in need of attention. Nurses are integral in transforming healthcare in Georgia. Our engagement, empowerment and preparedness to deliver quality care will be my highest priority if appointed to this position. I will assist in reaching those national benchmarks and developing pathways to increase our staffing percentages of nurses in the workforce. As a nurse who has worked in the hospital, public health, community and home health settings, I have an all-inclusive view of how these issues affect nurses across the spectrum of health care. For that reason, being on the Board of Directors at GNA will afford me the opportunity to serve and contribute to the advancement of the nursing profession in Georgia. Present Position: Public Health Nurse, Fulton County Health Department-DBHDD BSN Emory University AS Georgia Perimeter College GNA Director for Staff Nurse 2015 ANA New Graduate User Panel Member 2014-present ANA Scopes and Standards of Practice Advisory Board Member 2014-present VANAP Advisory Board Member Emory University and Atlanta VA Medical Center 2013-present Project Wellness RN Facilitator for Urban League of Atlanta 2014-present
Candidate for Director Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Name: Suzanne Staebler, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC, FAANP Statement: Although relatively new to Georgia, I am not new to advanced practice or advocacy on behalf of the profession. The major issues before the profession of advanced practice nursing include the inability of APRNs to practice to the full extent of their education and certification, barriers at the state levels regarding practice authority and prescriptive authority, prescribing durable medical equipment, radiology exams and other out-patient needs for patients and lack of engagement from front-line APRNs. Having been a member of LACE and an integral part of developing the Consensus model and policies governing APRN practice, I understand the language and the intricacies of the issues at hand. Through my experience in LACE and the Neonatal APRN profession, I have built collaborative relationships with other organizations and stakeholders to create synergy in advancing common goals. My past and current involvement in national and specialty APRN issues sustains my ability to effectively engage with lawmakers, lobbyists and APRNs in this important advocacy position. Utilizing my skill set, I would: Strategize regularly with the APRN groups across the state to design the legislative strategies for moving APRN practice forward; utilizing collaborations with outside organizations (NCSBN, AANP, ACNM, AANA) Meet regularly with key lawmakers and influencers within the state legislature as well as other stakeholder groups. Collect data related to care/access barriers across the state and impact of APRNs on improving health outcomes in Georgia Develop talking points for clear, concise and consistent messaging for ALL APRNs across the state. Present Position: Associate Professor and the Specialty Program Coordinator for the Neonatal NP program, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University; Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Grady Hospital BSN Baylor University MSN University of Texas HSC San Antonio DNP Texas Christian University GNA Director for APRN 2014-2015 Board of Directors National Certification Corp 2014-current LACE representative NANNP 2008-current Singles Ministry leadership, Buckhead Church 2015-current Governing Council Chair National Association of Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NANNP) 2012-2014 BOD National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) 2000-2004; 2012-2014
Candidate for Director Legislation/Public Policy Name: Richard M. Lamphier, RN GNA Chapter: Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA Statement: The major legislative issues affecting GNA are our ability to practice to the fullest extent of our education. Work place safety, including bullying, safe staffing and shift work. For all Georgia citizens to have access to healthcare. I will work, with GNA members and other health care stake holders, to bring Nursing s voice to elected representatives. Using Bi-Directional communication I will take your legislative and public policy concerns to decision makes and key stake holders in the state. I will disseminate the information back to our members through GNA news letters and e-mail blast. Thank you for considering me for the Director of Legislation and Public Policy. Present Position: Clinical Program Manager of Project S.A.V.E., Children's Healthcare of Atlanta ASN Broward Community College GNA Director Legislation and Public Policy 2014-Present Chair-Elect GNA Intervention Program 2013-present Preventing Sudden Cardiac Death in the Young national committee Pediatric Association of Congenital & Electrophysiology Society (PACES) 2015-present Sports Safety state committee Georgia High School Association (GHSA) 2014- present GNA Director Staff Nurse 2013-2014 Chair Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA 2014-2015 Chair Elect Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA 2013-2014
Candidate for Chair Nominating Committee Name: Avia Turner-Gray, JD, BSN, BA, RN GNA Chapter: Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA Statement: Nursing empowerment is one the leading issues facing the nursing profession today. Power has been defined in many ways, but within the context of nursing, it is "the ability to get things done, to mobilize resources, to get and use whatever it is that a person needs" to achieve the goals that she has in mind (Kanter, 1993, p. 166). While the profession of nursing has become increasingly more sophisticated and technologically advanced, I am troubled by the fact that many nurses individually still see themselves as being "just nurses." When a nurse announces that she is just a nurse, she is effectively saying that she does not have power, control, or value. Surely, no good can come from such a powerless attitude. Research indicates that powerless nurses are ineffective, more susceptible to burnout, and contribute to poor patient outcomes (Manojlovich, 2007). In my role as the Chair of the Nominating Committee for GNA, I empower nurses. I recruit nurses to participate in GNA at the state level where I encourage them to use all of their individual gifts to advance the profession of nursing particularly in the legislative, political, and policy making arena. I assist these nurses in the transformative process of becoming empowered and influential beings. As these nurses use their personal power, there are able to effectuate positive changes in their workplace, their practice, and in their nursing care. Present Position: Attorney and Counsellor at Law, Turner-Gray Legal Group JD University of Georgia School of Law BS UNC Chapel Hill AD Gordon State College Chair, GNA Nominations Committee 2014-2015 Chair, GN-PAC 2015-2015 Member, GNF Board of Trustees 2012 to present Member, GNA Legislation and Public Policy Committee 2013 to present Trustee Fulton DeKalb Hospital Authority with oversight for Grady Health System 2011 to present Executive Committee Member Fulton County Citizen's University 2011 to present Fulton County Medical Reserve Corps/Community Response Team 2011 to present Grant Reviewer, CMS, Health Innovation Project 2012
Candidate for Member Nominating Committee Name: Rolyn Clarke, BSN, RN GNA Chapter: Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA Statement: Greetings Georgia Nurse s Association Members, my name is Rolyn Clarke. Last year I entered GNA, specifically the Metro- Atlanta Chapter as 2014 nurse graduate seeking mentorship, guidance, and community involvement. As the Chair-Elect of the Metro Atlanta Chapter I seek to utilize the wisdom of seasoned nurses to develop programs for our meetings that provide nursing education, inspire innovation, and improve current practice. Since my term began as the Chair-Elect, the Atlanta Chapter has double their meeting attendance. I believe I have a special purpose within Georgia Nurse s Association. As a part of the nomination committee, I will ensure that nominees for elective office provide cohesive views that align with the purpose statements of GNA and ANA. In addition, I am willing to advise nominees, implement policies and procedures of the election process, and coordinate with my peers within the nomination committee. In my two year term, I would specifically like to advise and encourage GNA collaboration with Georgia Student Nurses Association and Georgia Association for Nursing Education to increase the membership of new graduate nurses into GNA. I will continue to serve to minimize the gap between novice nurses and season nurses. I appreciate the support, mentorship, and encouragement I have received thus far from GNA members. I am a worthy nomination chair committee candidate and I would be honored to continue working hard as a member of an extraordinary organization such as GNA. Please vote, Rolyn Clarke, Nomination Committee Chair Member. Present Position: Resident Nurse/Neurovascular Unit, Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital Bachelor's of Science in Nursing Purdue University Academic Honors High School Diploma Avon High School Chair Elect Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA 2014-2015
Candidate for Member Nominating Committee Name: Wanda Jones, BSN, MSN, FNP-BC GNA Chapter: Northwest Metro Chapter of GNA Statement: Having been involved with the GNA s Board of Directors (BOD) since 1994, I feel it is essential to have qualified people on the Board of Directors. The nominations committee has a very important task in seeking out, selecting and interviewing candidates for the many positions on the BOD. As a member of the nominations committee, I would like to continue in the process of selecting candidates who are willing to serve with commitment, has integrity and is forward thinking. I would feel privileged to serve on GNA s nominations committee. Present Position: Retired from Dept of Army - Ft. Benning, GA Post Graduate Family Nurse Practitioner Troy State University MSN - Adult Health Education Troy State University BSN Columbus State University Secretary for GNA Board of Directors 2011 to present GNA Finance Committee 2007 to present GNA By-Laws Committee 2012 to present GNA Legislative Committee 2013 to present BOD for Heritage Oaks Homeowners Assoc 2015 to present GNA Director of Nursing Practice 2007 2011 ANA Delegate for GNA 2011-2012 GNA Professional Development Conference Committee 2013-2014 GNA Chapter Chair Columbus Chapter 2005-2010 Vice President United Advanced Practice Registered Nurses 2013 to January 2015 Chair for Georgia's Barriers to Practice GNLC 2012-2014 President UAPRN 2011-2013
Candidate for Member Nominating Committee Name: Chikita Mann, MSN, RN, CCM Statement: A major issue facing the nursing profession is its ongoing battle to be recognized as a legitimate profession and it's importance of revamping the healthcare system. An issue facing the association is prospective member seeing how GNA can assist with professional development and advancement. Present Position: RN Disability Case Manager Supervisor, GENEX Services, LLC MSN Grand Canyon University BSN University of Southern MS Chair, Informatics Chapter of GNA 2014 to 2015 Commissioner - Commision for Case Manager Certification (2015 2019) Health and Fitness Coordinator at Covenant Christian Ministries 2014 to present
Candidate for Member Nominating Committee Name: Jill Ray, RN, MSN Statement: I am excited to have the opportunity to work with GNA Nominations and elections for a 2nd term. My goal is to continue to work to facilitate active involvement in GNA with new school graduates. Present Position: Instructor, Georgia Gwinnett College Nursing MSN Georgia Regents University BSN Georgia Regents University GNA Nominations Committee 2013-2015 GNA Liaison to GANS 2013-2015 Chair, Awards Committee Pi Gamma Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau 1995-current GNA Liaison to GANS 2011-2013
Candidate for Incoming President & ANA Representative Name: Aimee Manion, DNP, RN-BC, NEA-BC GNA Chapter: Metro Atlanta Chapter of GNA Statement: Personal and professional experiences over the past few years have provided me with a panoramic view of the nursing profession from the perspective of consumer of healthcare, nurse educator, community activist and nurse leader. These experiences have given me a clear viewpoint regarding the predominant factors impacting the nursing profession within our state and nationally. Factors such as barriers to maximizing practice at all levels of the nursing profession, unsafe work environments and staffing shortages are just a few of the most critical issues that significantly affect nurses on a daily bases. As a leader, within our professional organization, it is my responsibility to address these and other factors that detrimentally influence optimal nursing practice and the provision of safe and effective care within the healthcare environment. I strongly believe the president should be an agent for positive and enduring change. Leading positive change is not just facilitated by the power of spoken words but by converting words into execution of strategic and purposeful actions. It is in these actions innovation and significant transformations are born. As president of the Georgia Nurses Association, I will have been and will continue to be a visible leader and to remain intune and responsive to pertinent state and national healthcare issues impacting nurses and provision of care. I will continue to strive to be a transformational leader dedicated to fostering a united voice for all nurses and promoting the health and well-being of all Georgians. Present Position: Associate Nurse Executive for Education, Atlanta VA Medical Center Doctorate of Nursing Practice University of Alabama Master of Science in Nursing Kennesaw State University BSN Grambling State University GNA President November 2014-present GNA President-elect 2013-2014 Chair- Georgia ECC Committee American Heart Association March 2015-present Co-Lead Georgia Nursing Leadership Coalition (Georgia Action Coalition) 2012- present GNA Director of Leadership Development 2011-2013 Interim Chair of Nursing Future Leaders Chapter of GNA 2011 Member GNA Bylaws Committee 2009-2011 Member Continuing Education Committee 2007-2011 Chair-Elect Georgia ECC Committee American Heart Association July 2014-March 2015