This was my second Congress attendance and second time as a delegate. My first experience was two years ago in Anaheim and I was amazed by all that Congress had to offer. Really, I thought nothing could be better than that first experience. Fast forward to Congress 2010 in Denver, the home of AORN, and an even better event filled with excellent education sessions, activity and fun!
Waking up to a view of snow capped mountains was a real treat. All in all, it was a perfect setting for this year’s Congress theme- Reaching the Peak of periOperative Practice: Safety, Quality, and Collaboration. Denver is a beautiful city filled with a variety of activities to suit just about everyone’s preferences. Of course, there was so much going on in and around the convention center that attending other activities within the city required some strategic planning. Luckily, I arrived on Friday and was able to do a bit of sight-seeing and some shopping at Cherry Creek. I also went to a wonderful live jazz show at Dazzle with my cousin who resides in Denver.
The delegate experience was great and I highly encourage members who have not been delegates to participate. I appreciate AORN and eChapter and was honored to represent our chapter membership. This year there was some hot button business on the table! Sessions included extensive discussion on the issues of a dues increase, one member-one vote, growing membership and making the necessary changes to move AORN forward. Our delegate body was well informed and prepared to address these hot topics.
The one member-one vote initiative's passing was a positive shift. This measure will do much to promote increased activity and involvement among current and new members. The approval of the dues increase above what was proposed was a plus. Even in difficult economic times, members are willing to do what it takes to keep AORN positioned as a strong and viable organization. Many thanks to eChapter for allowing me to serve. I still consider myself a newbie and learn so much each time. Terri, Mark, Sherry, Carole, Janis, Marilyn and everyone else I bugged...thanks for answering all of my questions.
The eChapter breakfast meeting was top-notch. We have so many talented, active and award-winning shining stars in this chapter. It was good to be able to put faces with names and network with members at the eChapter booth. Sharing eChapter information with others was a highlight as well. I think we even had people join right there on the spot! Congress is THE place to interact with peers. The environment is warm, supportive and friendly. I was able to re-connect with OR nurses I worked with five years ago and even ten tears ago who encouraged me when I was new to the OR....but alas, I digress!
Congress 2011 is in Philadelphia and I believe it will be another energetic, educational, and fun-filled opportunity to be active in AORN, take part in the delegate experience and network with OR nurses from all over the world...all while getting a little vacation time for yourself! I look forward to seeing you all there.
De Ann
