It was only at the last minute that I found I would have the opportunity to attend the 2010 Congress. I was sure that the deadline for offering to serve as a Delegate had passed. I was thrilled when I arrived and met with Terri at the eChapter booth, to find that there was, indeed, a delegate spot for me.
To me, this is one of the highlights of Congress. I love the opportunity to be actively involved in the decision-making process of the organization at this level. I take the responsibility very seriously and find myself reading the agenda items carefully. I think, as I go through them, what the implications for my daily practice might be.
In my role as the Director of Surgical Services in a rural hospital, I work hard to instill in my staff the belief that they can, and must practice at a level of professionalism that is as high as the largest and most sophisticated teaching facility. I insist that they have access to the Standards and use them in daily practice decisions.
Being a part of the House of Delegates demonstrates that I am invested in my profession and involved in its growth and development. I think it shows how to “walk the walk” rather than just “talk the talk”.
My goal is to bring at least one of my staff nurses to Congress next year, and serve beside them in the House of Delegates. I am so grateful that the existence of eChapter makes active participation so accessable to nurses like those here in rural Virginia.
See you next year!
Susan