The American Nurses Association (ANA) welcomes its newest president, Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, Ph.D., MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN. She brings more than 25 years of nursing experience to the ANA presidency. She has devoted more than a decade of service to ANA, providing leadership in high-profile positions such as ANA Committee Treasurer and service on ANA’s Board of Directors while maintaining membership with the Oregon Nurses Association.
Ready to Tackle Pressing Nursing Workforce Issues
Dr. Mensik Kennedy is ready to continue work to address some of the most pressing issues facing nurses: racism in nursing, the health and well-being of nurses, full practice authority for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), and nurse staffing.
“It is a tremendous honor to be elected as the president of the American Nurses Association and as the national, leading advocate for nurses during these unprecedented times in nursing history. The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant challenges to the nursing profession, with workforce issues making national headlines despite decades of existence. I am committed to maintaining this visibility and, more importantly, the momentum made to call for real solutions that address safe staffing concerns, workplace violence, and burnout to ensure nurses receive the support they so desperately deserve. I will also ensure that ANA’s work with the National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing and journey of racial reconciliation continues.”
She says nursing is truly her passion and calling, and in addition to tackling the hard issues, she’s excited to connect with fellow nurses across the country.
“I want to hear their challenges, but I also want to celebrate their vast contributions to society, education, public health, science, research, and so much more. Working together, we can support our profession and make health care delivery the best experience for our patients and communities.”
- From Dream to Reality: Jolene Scatton’s Journey to a Fulfilling Nursing Career - April 17, 2024
- Mount Sinai South Nassau Nurse Eileen Mahler Honored for Illustrious 45-Year Nursing Career - April 10, 2024
- A Day in the Life: Hospice Nurse - April 8, 2024