From the Editor
Carol Toussie Weingarten, PhD, RN, ANEF
This issue of Pennsylvania Nurse is about connections and networks that impact
careers and communities. In his PSNA President’s column, Dr. Mark Crider focuses
on 2019 PSNA Summit keynote speaker, Nurse Blake, who connects through social
media to a huge audience of nursing students, nurses, and others to entertain and to
advocate. President Crider’s November presentation to the entire state convention
of the Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP) underscored the connec-
tions that occur with professional involvement that begins during the earliest days
of nursing education. From the perspective of PSNA’s President, he shared his own
journey that began with membership and then presidency of the state SNAP. From his start as a student inspired
by outstanding nurses, Dr. Crider became a PSNA President who has connected with and inspired others at all
stages of their careers.
PSNA Government Affairs Specialist Alex Bonner profiles Pennsylvania’s Ellen Schauerman, who was elected
in November 2019 to Erie County Council District 7. A practicing neonatal nurse, PSNA member and Trustee of
the Nursing Foundation of Pennsylvania (NFP), she has moved from “setting up meetings to educate lawmakers
about healthcare” to an elected political role, connecting her background and expertise in healthcare with issues
facing people and businesses.
Mary Ann Durant’s article, available for continuing education credit, addresses the pain and isolation of elder
abuse, which she identifies as an “alarming saga.” Durant connects readers with the definition and descriptions of
elder abuse and resources nurses can access.
Deb Cardenas, featured as this issue’s member highlight, was recently elected to PSNA Board Secretary. Since
childhood, she has known that she wants to be a nurse. Read about her path in professional nursing and her fu-
ture goals.
Kristal Hockenberry’s article on “Sustainability in a Simulation Lab” connects daily use of materials in simula-
tion scenarios with the importance of environmental health and the need for sustainable simulation activities
that decrease the high costs for nursing programs. With increasingly urgent needs for conservation and climate
control, her work illustrates how initiatives can begin locally nursing education settings.
As you read this issue, take some time to read the Spotlight and sidebars which summarize such opportunities
as scholarships and events like the April 8 Legislative Day, a powerful experience being together with nurses in
Harrisburg. See the names of the newest PSNA members and who represents PSNA as Board members and staff
leaders. Look for your picture among the photos taken at recent PSNA events or plan how you can be involved in
the excitement and outcomes of a future event. There is always a place for you.
Wishing happy holidays to you and your families and a 2020 that becomes the best year yet,
Carol
Issue 74, 3 2019 Pennsylvania Nurse 4