Meeting officially kicked off!

Greetings from Indy! This morning it was my pleasure to kick off the Annual Meeting! I am thrilled to report that we have over 2,200 nurse leaders and exhibitors in attendance this year.

I began this morning's session by recognizing our past presidents and current AONE board - I'm so grateful to carry on their collective torch! - and I was then joined on stage by my wonderful colleagues at Health Management Associates who presented me with a HUGE bouquet of pink roses. Then Gail Latimer from Siemens Healthcare - one of our wonderful longtime industry supporters - introduced our keynote session speaker David Whyte. David, a very engaging poet and author, talked about developing leadership through courageous conversations, both internally and with others in our organizations.

Now it's off to the Exhibit Hall for our ribbon cutting ceremony and then concurrent sessions in the early afternoon. Tonight is the president's reception sponsored by Hill-Rom. If you are one of our attendees, I highly suggest you bring your dancing shoes. If you forgot a pair, fear not. I packed fifteen pair!!! Take care, Pam