TOADN Newsletter

Message from the President

Just as Change is occurring in Nursing Education, it is also happening in TOADN leadership and membership. In February, I will be leaving the presidency in the very capable hands of Sally Durand. There will be new members on the Board of Directors (don't forget to vote) and our membership will begin to include organizations which are not community colleges but grant a similar degree to their graduates.

Early in my presidency, a past president of TOADN and NOADN, Sue Ocshner, gave me a plaque which stated "God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the Courage to accept the things I can and the Wisdom to know the difference." As AD nursing advocates, the practice of this thought is vitally important (I dare say it is evidenced based! [Smile]). There is neither time nor energy to oppose issues that cannot be changed. The only way we can know the viability of an issue is if we are aware of current decisions made by the Legislative Body (including the governor), Coordinating Board, Board of Nurses, Texas Nurses Association, and nationally based committees/organizations. However, knowledge from these decision making bodies is only the beginning. This acquired knowledge must be shared!

These are my wishes and thoughts for the TOADN members and theTOADN organization of the future.

• Accept that you can only do what you can do!
• In Texas TNA is the legislative arm of nurses. Join TNA. Stay apprised of the various issues and volunteer to be on TNA committees.
• Stay informed of THECB issues including volunteering for their committees.
• If you agree to be on a committee, be accountable. Work diligently as you are representing AD Nursing. If you must be absent from a committee always send a substitute because without a representative TOADN has no voice.
• To speak makes one vulnerable, but you are an advocate for AD Nursing Education - Speak confidently.
• Become an individual member of TOADN and encourage faculty to do the same. Support agency membership.
• Support attendance at TOADN & NOADN conventions (see pages 9&10)
• Embrace the future, it is coming whether you are ready or not!

Over the years, I have served TOADN on the BOD or as president for a total of 9 years and I will serve one more year as past-president. I appreciate the opportunities to serve nursing and to serve you. My sincerest wish is that TOADN is a better organization for my having been one of its presidents.

My best wishes for our profession and you,
Bonnie Higgins EdD, RN, CMSRN

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