A University of Arkansas alumna was chosen as president of the Northwest Arkansas chapter of the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association. Heather Hunter graduated from the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree. She is now enrolled in the nursing school’s Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program delivered online with the Global Campus.

The chapter received its charter last July. Other graduates of the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing who are involved include Kathryn Gearhart, treasurer; Neta Winston, membership chair; and Shelly Lackey. Holly VanWinkle, clinical instructor of nursing, serves as nominating chair on the group’s executive board.

The group is open to all disciplines – nurses, social workers, physicians and certified nurse-assistants – interested in the hospice and palliative care specialty.

“Our group is a support network that offers educational opportunities at monthly meetings,” Hunter said. “The Northwest Arkansas Chapter of HPNA is working diligently to make its existence known to prospective members in the area. As a new group, gaining membership dedicated to the advancement of hospice and palliative care is our primary goal as we seek to make an impact on the community."

For more information, email nwahpna@gmail.com