The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) has appointed a select handful of nursing students to its national Leadership Council of the Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA). While more than 10,000 GNSA members were eligible for consideration, only eight were selected including Regis nursing graduate student Grace Udoh, of Forney, Texas.
As members of the GNSA, students commit to two years of service as they collaborate with their peers to develop strategic goals, plan a national conference, and grow GNSA membership and engagement. Udoh applied for the leadership position to make a stronger impact in the field of nursing. As a member of the council, she will have a voice in representing the interests of nursing students and professionals, contribute to initiatives that will improve the profession as a whole, and enhance health and nursing education.
“The nursing education I received at Regis provided me with the foundational knowledge, critical thinking skills, and hands-on experience I need to be an effective leader in the nursing field,” said Udoh. “The extensive education and training have given me faith in my abilities, allowing me to take on leadership roles and contribute to initiatives that advance healthcare and nursing. The positive reinforcement, acknowledgment of hard work, and constructive feedback I received at Regis motivated me to strive for excellence in my studies and endeavors, further fueling my passion for nursing and leadership.”
Udoh applied to the Regis nursing program to advance her education and expertise in nursing as the university, “stood out as a place that could provide me with a challenging and all-encompassing education to help me grow as a nurse and a future nurse practitioner.” Regis also offered Udoh the opportunity to participate in a program that would help her become a practical nurse and advocate for better patient care and healthcare delivery.
Udoh aspires to open her own medical practice and improve peoples’ and communities' quality of life through individualized care and attention. “My goal is to make the healthcare system more welcoming and accessible for all people so that they may receive excellent care,” shared Udoh.
To be eligible for a GNSA leadership consideration, applicants must be enrolled in a nursing school that offers master's and/or doctoral degree programs. Through its Young School of Nursing, Regis offers several such academic programs – many online – such as a Nurse Practitioner tracks in pediatric, psychiatric-mental health, family, women’s health, adult-gerontology, and several nursing leadership tracks, Doctor of Nursing Practice; and several more.
“This leadership position provides opportunities to become immersed in the broader field of nursing and healthcare, allowing me to better understand the industry's challenges and opportunities,” said Udoh. “It will also offer pathways to acquire knowledge and skills related to leadership, advocacy, and project management.”
Other students appointed to the national council include those attending Columbia University, University of Cincinnati, the University of Michigan, Villanova University and others.
