Eleanor Mann School of Nursing students recently participated in Nurses Day at the Capitol, an annual event where nurses from across the state come together to advocate for policies that support the profession and improve patient care. 

"This was an amazing opportunity for our students to meet with Arkansas state legislators to advocate for policies relevant to nursing, tour the capitol and attend committee meetings," said Sara Sugg, a clinical instructor at the nursing school who helped facilitate the visit.

The keynote speaker for the event was Jennifer S. Mensik Kennedy, board president of the American Nurses Association, which hosted the day.

Sugg said the event allows nurses and nursing students to make their voices heard and influence legislation directly affecting their work. Participants attended legislative briefings, where they learned about current healthcare issues, the legislative process and ways to develop effective advocacy strategies.   

"Nurses Day at the Capitol is a powerful reminder that when nurses unite, their voices shape the future of healthcare, ensuring their profession is heard, valued and supported," Sugg said.

Kayla Sonner, a senior in the U of A nursing program, felt privileged to attend the Little Rock event and gain insights about nursing advocacy. She also enjoyed learning about breakthroughs in the profession, such as the advanced cauterizing system designed to protect healthcare professionals from surgical smoke exposure. She said it highlighted "how innovation and policy work together to improve patient and provider safety."

Hannah Reeves, also a senior, called the experience "unforgettable" and said it was exciting to watch legislators interact and discuss a bill that was presented. She and her peers also appreciated meeting with the state's elected officials — including Reps. Denise Garner and Nicole Clooney from Fayetteville — to discuss issues like safe staffing, workplace violence, pay equity and access to quality healthcare.

Nursing students also had the opportunity to network, allowing them to connect with colleagues, share experiences and build relationships across Arkansas.

"We are so thankful to Dean Mamiseishvili's support through a WE CARE grant and for advocating for our nursing students to attend this year's Nurses Day at the Capitol," Sugg said.