EDITORIAL
Dear NSNA Members,
It has truly been a privilege to serve as your Imprint Editor for the past two terms. My time with NSNA has reinforced the incredible impact we have as student nurses and the power of coming together as one professional community. Throughout my journey, I have witnessed firsthand how NSNA supports nursing students across the country by providing opportunities for leadership, professional development, networking, mentorship, and lifelong connections. Publications like Imprint magazine also serve as an important platform to celebrate student accomplishments while sharing insights from experienced nurses and healthcare leaders.
This summer issue is filled with inspiring stories and valuable resources. Be sure to explore information about upcoming scholarships, important NSNA deadlines, and the MidYear Conference this October.
Our Up Close column feature highlights a nurse practitioner ' s journey in women ' s health, emphasizing mentorship, patient advocacy, maintaining healthy career boundaries, and pursuing nursing with passion and purpose.
You ' ll also find the article,“ Protecting the Professional Image and Future of the Most Trusted Profession, Nursing,” which explores how nursing has earned the distinction of being America ' s most trusted profession for 24 consecutive years. The article examines how our professional image influences patient trust, quality of care, ethical practice, and the future of healthcare. Authors Sabrina Ehmke, Lauren Olson, and Faisa Yusuf share meaningful perspectives on preserving the integrity of our profession while inspiring the next generation of nurses.
This issue also spotlights the Volunteer State Student Nurses ' Association and their commitment to community health through a successful American Red Cross blood drive. Supported by the Littmann ® Stethoscope Leadership Development Grant, their initiative demonstrates outstanding student leadership while strengthening chapter involvement, increasing membership, and promoting community wellness. Their experience offers excellent ideas for student nursing organizations looking to make a meaningful impact within their own communities.
Nursing is one of the most trusted professions because nurses advocate for their patients, regardless of other factors. Read about leaving bias at the door and how nurses should focus on education and awareness to best care for patients with Kim King’ s article on cannabis education.
One of my favorite opportunities in this issue was collaborating with Dr. Farah Laurent to record the podcast, " New Grad Confidence and Personal Branding." In this conversation, we discuss networking, building a professional online presence, standing out during interviews, and developing confidence as a new graduate nurse. Dr. Laurent also shares her inspiring nursing journey and practical advice for creating new opportunities throughout your career. I hope you ' ll take a few moments to listen— you may discover a few tips you haven ' t heard before.
As I conclude my time as Imprint Editor, I want to thank each one of you for allowing me to be part of your nursing journey. It has been an honor to help share the stories, accomplishments, and voices of nursing students across the country. I hope this magazine continues to inspire you to lead, serve, and advocate for our profession.
Happy reading,
Lauren E. Tickner Imprint Editor
4 NSNA Imprint