More than one way into nursing

Nursing is one of the most versatile and impactful professions, offering numerous entry points to fit your unique journey. Whether you're just starting to explore healthcare or transitioning from another career, there's a pathway for you.  

Take, for example, the Executive Director of CCNW. Before becoming a nurse, she dedicated four years to educating students in the classroom. Her enjoyment for teaching and helping others ultimately led her to nursing, demonstrating that it’s never too late—or too early—to pursue this incredible career.  

From Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs to Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs, or Accelerated Pre-Licensure Programs (ABSN), there are options for everyone. Many programs offer flexible schedules, making it easier for individuals with varying commitments and responsibilities to pursue a career in nursing.

To explore the right fit for your nursing journey, visit CT Nursing Guide https://www.ctnursingguide.com. This comprehensive resource provides details on programs, licensing requirements, and opportunities across the state. No matter where you start, every pathway in nursing leads to the chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.  

Supporting Pre-licensure Students

CCNW is excited to announce the launch of our "Pre-licensure Student Success Series"—a monthly forum dedicated to empowering pre-licensure nursing students as they transition into professional practice.  

This series is designed to provide a supportive space where future nurses can build confidence, competence, and resilience. Each session will feature evidence-based strategies, insights from experienced nursing professionals, and real-time guidance tailored to the unique challenges of pre-licensure students.  

When and Where:

Join us on the fourth Wednesday of every month from January through May 2025, 8:00–9:30 PM EST. Sessions will be held virtually, making it easy for students across Connecticut to participate.  

Together, we’ll ensure that our emerging nursing workforce receives the support, guidance, and preparation they need to thrive from day one.  

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to invest in your success. Register now and take the next step toward your professional nursing career!  

A Nurse residency program can help launch your career

As a new nursing graduate, launching your career is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Connecticut provides a wealth of resources to help you transition seamlessly from the classroom to clinical practice and beyond.

One of the best starting points is a nurse residency program, which is specifically designed for new graduate nurses. These programs focus on building essential skills, confidence, and competence in a supportive environment. Over 6–12 months, you’ll receive structured mentorship, hands-on training, and professional guidance, making the shift to your first nursing role smoother and more rewarding.

As your career progresses, you may consider a nurse fellowship program, which targets experienced nurses ready to specialize or take on leadership roles. These programs provide advanced education and targeted training in areas like critical care, oncology, or management. Fellowships are typically shorter and tailored to deepen expertise and prepare you for advanced practice or specialized responsibilities.

Whether you’re beginning your journey or pursuing growth opportunities, Connecticut’s vibrant healthcare community offers robust support. Take advantage of these programs, seek out mentors, and explore professional development opportunities. Remember, your first role is just the beginning of a fulfilling and impactful career in nursing. Connecticut is here to help you thrive every step of the way!

The power of narrative and graphic medicine

Narrative and graphic medicine combine storytelling and visuals to deepen our understanding of healthcare and its human impact. As a visual learner and a firm believer in the power of storytelling, I recognize how these tools can make complex concepts accessible and relatable. This approach invites individuals to own their stories, promoting healing, empathy, and growth. It goes beyond charts and diagnoses, creating a space to explore the human side of health and care. By engaging in reading, writing, and discussions, healthcare professionals and patients alike uncover new insights, strengthen connections, and transform clinical encounters into meaningful experiences. To learn more, visit https://library.usfca.edu/narrative-medicine

Become a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing

The American Academy of Nursing advances health policy and practice by generating and sharing nursing knowledge to benefit the public. With over 3,000 Fellows, it represents nursing's top leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia. Fellows are recognized for their extraordinary contributions to improving health both locally and globally. Being inducted into the American Academy of Nursing as a Fellow is a prestigious honor recognizing extraordinary contributions to nursing and healthcare. Fellows gain access to an influential network of nursing leaders, opportunities to shape health policy, and resources to advance their work locally and globally. Membership enhances professional credibility, fosters collaboration, and supports efforts to improve health outcomes.

The Academy’s 2025 Fellowship Application Cycle opened on January 7, 2025, offering a chance to join this distinguished community. Learn more at https://aannet.org/

Trinity Health's fourth annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Health Equity Symposium

Trinity Health is proud to present the fourth annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Health Equity Symposium on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 11 am to 1 pm ET. Dr. King’s work focused on humanity, equity, and justice – ensuring access to the same opportunities for all humankind. Inspired by the words of Dr. King, "We must walk on in the days ahead with an audacious faith in the future," Trinity Health presents “Mission Possible: Advancing Health Equity.”

This year, we are focusing on racial equity by addressing issues like eliminating algorithms that create racial bias, reducing health disparities affecting mothers and babies, and understanding how challenges from past generations impact families today.

Register today for what is bound to be an extraordinary event! http://www.trinityforhealthequity.org/