Welcome to the AORN NSSA Page & Letter From the Chairs!

Welcome to the new page dedicated to the AORN Nurse Scientist Specialty Assembly! We will use this as our communication hub for events and notifications. Don't hesitate to contact us with any requests to add valuable information to the site.

The holidays are usually one of my favorite times of the year. On December 25th, we look forward to the cheesy music, the decorations, the reunions with old friends, some well-earned rest, and, if we're lucky, the sight of fresh snow. This happy tradition has also grown to include the annual holiday message, which provides an opportunity to recognize our accomplishments and show appreciation.

I was constantly reminded by a blank white page and a blinking cursor that there were no suitable words to express how we were all feeling about our difficulties. Instead, I began reflecting on all the things for which I am thankful, things that the Nurse Scientist Specialty Assembly (NSSA) has sharply highlighted as being of utmost importance and deserving of its existence.

I want to begin by expressing my gratitude and pride in each team member. Their tenacity, ingenuity, and cooperation brighten even the worst of days. Because of their accomplishments this year, their talent, and their commitment to using science to make the world a better place, I have faith that the future is in good hands. Working with a group of people who always support one another, especially in difficult times, is a rare blessing. Despite our busy schedules, we keep coming up with new ideas and working together to achieve amazing things in the fields of social responsibility, education, and research. I sincerely appreciate you all; you are truly remarkable.

I hope you will take a moment to think about the things for which we are all thankful as we make our way through the holiday season and anticipate another uncertain year. I encourage you to join our team this year by attending our upcoming event on January 21, 2025. You'll get to know some amazing people who are aware of the difficulties you encounter at work. Being a member of NSSA is more than just belonging to an organization; it's about being a part of a family that encourages one another to succeed.

From the NSSA family, happy holidays! Take care of yourself, stay safe, and relish your well-earned vacation. May you discover wonderful glimmers of the joy that still exists beneath the surface and moments of hope amidst the chaos.

Respectfully,

Co-chairs:

Gert Mayes, PhD, RN, NPD-BC, CNOR

Marell “Hazel” Garcia, DNP, MS, RN, CNOR