The 2025 NCONL Membership Meeting and Annual Conference brought together a diverse group of nurse leaders under the theme “Nurse Leaders: Creating a Healthy Work Environment.” With over 280 attendees engaging in thought-provoking discussions, research presentations, and networking opportunities, the event served as a crucial platform for shaping the future of nursing leadership.

The Nursing Beat was on-site, capturing key moments and engaging with influential speakers to highlight how nursing leadership is evolving in response to workforce challenges, patient care advancements, and policy changes.

Setting the Stage: A Conference Rooted in Action

The event opened with a warm welcome from NCONL President Chantal Howard, DNP, RN, CEN, NEA-BC, setting the tone for a conference centered on innovation and resilience in nursing leadership. This was followed by a powerful keynote address by Rose O. Sherman, EdD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, titled “Nursing Leadership in the New World of Work: New Strategies and Tools for Success.”  

Sherman’s message resonated deeply with attendees, as she emphasized:

“The traditional leadership models no longer suffice in today’s complex healthcare environment. Nurse leaders must be agile, empathetic, and ready to adopt new strategies to support both staff and patient outcomes.”

The session underscored the importance of equipping leaders with practical tools to navigate burnout, staffing shortages, and organizational change. All attendees received a copy of Rose Sherman's book Nurse Leader Coach, and she was available for a book signing.

Key Takeaways from Thought Leaders

A major highlight of the conference was the session “The Science of Bite-Sized Well-being During Uncertain Times” by Bryan Sexton, PhD, Director of Duke University’s Center for the Advancement of Well-being Science. His discussion on fostering resilience among healthcare teams provided actionable strategies for combating burnout.

“Well-being isn’t a luxury—it’s a leadership responsibility,” Sexton emphasized.

Another critical discussion was led by Dr. Chantal Howard in her session “A Lethality Assessment in an Emergency Department,” offering a deep dive into risk assessment strategies to enhance patient and staff safety in high-stakes environments.

Spotlight on Research and Innovation

The Poster Gallery Debut and Reception was a highlight of the event, featuring 40 poster presentations from nurse leaders addressing challenges within their institutions. Covering topics such as staffing solutions, workplace violence prevention, and well-being initiatives, the posters reflected the innovative problem-solving mindset of nursing leadership.

Each presentation demonstrated a commitment to improving patient care, optimizing resources, and strengthening leadership strategies within healthcare organizations. Discussions surrounding these projects reinforced the critical role of nurse leaders in driving innovation and addressing workplace challenges.

Poster Awards

Best Research – Preparing Nurses to Support the Family during Resuscitation
Presenter: Jaclyn Duncan, Atrium Health, King’s Mountain

Best Practice – Improving Efficiency and Staff Satisfaction in the OR through a Revised Block Scheduling Framework at a Rural Hospital
Presenter: Juli Forbes, ECU Health Beaufort

People’s Choice – Goodbye Contract Labor... Hello Internal Pipeline
Presenter: Garth McClune, Atrium Health

The event highlighted how nurse leaders are shaping the future of healthcare through innovation, leadership, and collaborative problem-solving.

Mentorship and Leadership Development

The conference provided a dedicated space for emerging nurse leaders to build skills and connections. Samantha Belden, DNP, RN, CEN, led the breakout session “Empowering the Voice of Emerging Leaders,” engaging attendees in discussions about professional development and career growth.

Panel discussions such as “Broadening Horizons” moderated by Euniqua Bullock, MSN, RN-BC, CEN, CNML, NEA-BC, brought together diverse perspectives from leaders across minority nursing organizations.

Dr. Ernest Grant, representing the American Association for Men in Nursing, stressed the importance of inclusivity in leadership roles:

“Diversity isn’t just a checkbox—it’s essential for innovation and patient-centered care.”

Fostering Collaboration and Connection

Networking was a major focus throughout the event, with multiple receptions and opportunities to make connections. Qualivis and NCHA sponsored the Poster Gallery Debut Reception while Wolters Kluwer sponsored the Exhibit Hall reception. Other sponsors included: Atrium Health, Cone Health, Duke Health, WakeMed and Laudio. These gatherings provided attendees with valuable opportunities to connect with executives, educators, and vendors, fostering discussions on solutions to the most pressing challenges in nursing today.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Nursing Leadership

The conference closed with a call to action from Deb Zimmermann, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, President of AONL and CEO of The DAISY Foundation, alongside Patricia Mook, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAONL. Their session, “A Progress Report on Nursing: Our Gains and Continued Workforce Opportunities,” focused on advocacy and long-term solutions for workforce sustainability.

Zimmermann urged leaders to embrace change:

“We can’t afford to lead reactively. We must be proactive in advocating for policies that support nurses at every level.”

Mook echoed this sentiment:

“A strong, engaged nursing workforce is the backbone of a successful healthcare system. Leaders must prioritize support systems that prevent burnout and foster career longevity.”

Keeping a Pulse on Healthcare Initiatives

At The Nursing Beat, we recognize the importance of staying attuned to both local and statewide healthcare initiatives that directly impact the nursing profession. By tracking policy changes, workforce developments, and innovative programs, we ensure that nurses across the country remain informed and empowered to advocate for meaningful improvements in their workplaces.

Our coverage goes beyond the headlines—we engage with frontline nurses, healthcare executives, and policymakers to provide actionable insights that help shape a better future for the profession. Whether addressing staffing shortages, tackling workplace violence, or fostering leadership pathways, The Nursing Beat remains committed to amplifying the voices of nurses at every level.

To learn more about NCONL’s ongoing efforts and initiatives, visit the NCONL website.

Stay tuned for more in-depth coverage and exclusive interviews as we continue to advocate for a stronger nursing profession.