I came away from Congress in Denver with more than a “Rocky Mountain High”, but also an “eChapter High”! An impressive week for our Chapter. We have an incredible number of members who are influencing and contributing to peak performance in perioperative practice. As evidenced at our Annual General Meeting, our members were session presenters, poster authors, Specialty Assembly, State Council, National Committee and Task Force members and leaders. And of special note – successful candidates for national office and award winners!

The Congress week had a new schedule which I found to work well. The Monday night Exhibits Reception was a terrific start to the week and for meeting vendors. For me, it relieved the usual pressure of Thursday exhibits amongst the many other activities of the final day. With only one Forum, delegates had more opportunity for educational sessions and other meetings.

Always full of interesting debate and discussion, the Forum and House of Delegates were no exception this year. The HOD showed great support by not only approving the proposed dues increase, but added an additional $5 to the increase (for a total of $25).

The General sessions are always my favorite. This year in particular, I thought the topics and speakers were quite relevant to the current culture, social and political influences to healthcare and therefore, our practice. And how about that Quiz Bowl! It was hard this year! I also attended the International Summit on Saturday. This was an excellent “international” initiative that will be included in future Congress schedules.

Our Annual General Meeting went very well. Much of the business to date was presented in written reports for review, allowing more discussion time for candidates and delegate issues, such as proposed bylaws revisions.

What was really remarkable about the week was the number of AORN members who converted their membership to eChapter – onsite, during Congress week! Several new members were spontaneous, approaching the eChapter booth. Others were by our members visiting with friends and colleagues, highlighting the benefits offered by eChapter.

The focus of the eChapter booth this year was also new, and in my humble opinion, very positive – for the Chapter and members alike. Instead of using the time, space and energy on raffling items, we focused on highlighting our Chapter profile and benefits. It allowed us to get to know each other better, as well as interact with other booth visitors. A tri-fold brochure was available, as well as the business cards and logo bookmark and letter opener. I enjoyed stopping by several times during the week, for a quick “breather” from the full day and for catching up with others!

So, as usual, I came away very energized and passionate about perioperative nursing, as well as impressed and humbled by the incredible talent, knowledge and accomplishments of our Chapter and organization. The opportunity to represent the Chapter is much appreciated.