| | IONRP Leadership at ANPD Aspire 2026 | The Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program team recently exhibited at the 2026 ANPD Aspire Convention in Louisville, KY (March 23–27). Site coordinators Jess Ociepka and Amanda Bruscher connected with NPD colleagues from across the country while earning CE credit, and our Director, Nicole Weathers, had a standout week—presenting two well‑received sessions and serving on the 2026 ANPD Content Planning Committee. A busy and energizing conference focused on innovation, connection, and advancing nursing professional development. | | | (L to R): Heidi Gilroy and Nicole Weathers. | | (L to R): Keynote Speaker Renee Thompson and ANPD Convention Planning members Teresa Glandorf, Nicole Weathers, and Mary Jennings. | | (L to R): ANPD Convention Planning members Gayla Goleman, Mary Jennings, Melissa Liu, Rachel Bentley, Emily Dobrinska, and Nicole Weathers. | | (L to R): Challenges with TTP: A National Survey research team Nicole Weathers, Ryan MacDonald, Mary Harper, and Kathy Casey. | | (L to R): Stacey Fort, Rachel Frija, and Nicole Weathers. | | (L to R): IONRP Program Coordinators Amanda Bruscher and Jess Ociepka. | | | | Congratulations to our Director, Nicole Weathers! | Nicole has been named one of only 18 University of Iowa staff members to receive a 2026 Staff Council Award. Her visionary leadership has helped grow the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program from a grant-funded initiative into a nationally recognized program supporting thousands of new graduate nurses across multiple states. We’re proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition. Read more about this year’s Staff Council Award recipients. | | | Competency is often treated as a task to complete, but what if it could be the foundation for engagement and professional growth? In this month’s blog, Nicole Weathers reflects on moving competency beyond compliance and into something that builds safety, belonging, and confidence. Read on to explore what happens when the how matters just as much as the what. | | | |
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| New Episode: Competency That Supports Nurses with Donna Wright | In this episode of the Beyond Nurse Residency Podcast, host Nicole Weathers sits down with nationally recognized competency expert Donna Wright to challenge traditional, check‑the‑box approaches to nursing competency. Together, they explore how a more human‑centered, trust‑based model can strengthen confidence, engagement, and professional growth across the nursing workforce. | | | | Celebrating the April 2025 Online Nurse Residency Cohort | |
We are pleased to recognize the April 2025 graduates of the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program. Last week, 12 nurse residents from healthcare facilities across the country successfully completed the program, marking an important milestone in their professional development.
Under the leadership of Program Coordinator Amanda Bruscher, MSN, RN, this cohort demonstrated significant growth in clinical judgment, confidence, and professional practice throughout the program.
We proudly congratulate graduates from the following organizations:
We commend these emerging nurse leaders as they transition into the next phase of their careers and begin making meaningful contributions within their organizations and communities.
| |  | Resident Spotlight: Noelle Fjeld | |
Meet our newest Resident Spotlight, Noelle Fjeld, a graduate of Spencer Hospital’s blended nurse residency program. In her spotlight, Noelle reflects on how meaningful discussions with fellow new nurses and supportive instructors helped her build confidence during her first year in practice.
We’re proud to feature Noelle and to celebrate our long-standing partnership with Spencer Hospital, a valued participant in the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program since 2014.
| We would also like to congratulate Spencer Hospital on being named one of the Top 20 Rural & Community Hospitals in the nation. Following its recent recognition as a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital, Spencer Hospital’s elevation to the Top 20 reflects its continued commitment to excellence in rural healthcare. | | | | | Enrollment for our April Online Nurse Residency cohort closes Friday, April 3. Secure support for your new graduate nurses today. Enroll your facility today. | | |
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| Recognizing Residents Who Inspire | |
Our residents mean the world to us. That first year as a practicing nurse is filled with challenges, growth, and defining moments, and we’re honored to walk alongside our residents every step of the way.
Through one-on-one support, guidance during tough situations, and consistent encouragement, our program coordinators serve not only as educators but as trusted guides. Their support reminds residents they’re never alone and helps keep their passion for nursing strong.
As we look ahead to National Nurses Week 2026, we want to shine a light on residents who inspire their teams and make a difference every day.
If you know a resident who deserves to be celebrated, we would love to hear their story.
Nominations are open through April 30, 2026
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After completing the course, participants may apply for the MCIRN Advanced Preceptor Fellowship, which offers advanced preceptor development, a stipend, and 29 continuing education hours.
Deadline reminder: MCIRN Advanced Preceptor Fellowship registration closes April 25, 2026.
| | Free Preceptor Training for Iowa Nurses | |
Iowa nurses can take advantage of free preceptor training through the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program (IONRP). Our course, Supporting Nurses: Training for Preceptors, Mentors, and Clinical Coaches, is available at no cost to Iowa learners through a collaboration with the Midwest Clinical Instruction Regional Network (MCIRN).
This refreshed training includes updated materials, enhanced content, and additional learner support designed to strengthen preceptor confidence and effectiveness.
| | | Conferences, Presentations, & Publications | |
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2026 ANCC Professional Development
& Practice Summit
| We are pleased to share that Jessica Ociepka, MSN, RN-BC, Coordinator for the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program, will represent our team at the ANCC Professional Development & Practice (PDP) Summit, held April 14–17, 2026, in Orlando, Florida. As a Summit Ally Sponsor, we will also host a designated sponsor table, inviting attendees to connect with us and learn more about how our program supports nurse transition‑to‑practice initiatives nationwide. | | | | Enhance the Transition to Practice Experience. | |
A successful transition to practice takes more than a curriculum. That’s why we go beyond nurse residency. At IONRP, we connect nurses, preceptors, leaders, and organizations with the tools, support, and practical resources they need to succeed—because when new nurses start strong, healthcare thrives. | | | | UI College of Nursing: Explore Online Academic Programs | | UI College of Nursing Outreach: Education, Research, and Service | |
| | A newly updated, free resource offering evidence‑based tools to support quality pain assessment and management in older adults. The site features easy‑to‑navigate sections for clinicians, older adults, and family caregivers, with practical guides on assessing pain, managing symptoms, and communicating with healthcare providers. | | | | Simulation in Motion - Iowa (SIM-IA) | |
Attention Iowa hospitals!
SIM-IA is a unique program designed to provide simulated clinical learning opportunities in local communities across Iowa. With three mobile simulation trucks, state-of-the-art equipment, and highly-trained staff, SIM-IA will bring much needed continuing education to EMS and other emergency providers throughout the state.
| | | | | | By 2030, 1 in 5 people in the U.S. will be over 65, necessitating support and resources for an aging population. The Barbara and Richard Csomay Center for Gerontological Excellence is uniquely positioned to unite people, organizations, and resources to meet these needs. Join us in creating a vibrant future where we can all age optimally. | | | | | |
