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Brooklyn, NY – April 30, 2025. The National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) is pleased to introduce D. Ryan Barrett, Sr. as the 2025-2026 NSNA President. The election results were announced on April 12, 2025, during the NSNA 73rd Annual Convention in Seattle, WA. Mr. Barrett is a student nurse at Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY.
Currently, Mr. Barrett works as a registered nurse in the Emergency Department at CHI St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington, KY. Prior to his election, Mr. Barrett served as Ex-officio Director on the NSNA Board of Directors and Chair of the Council of State Presidents Committee (2024-2025). He also served as the President of the Kentucky Association of Nursing Students (KANS) from 2023-2025.
On his election, Mr. Barrett expressed, "I am deeply honored to serve as NSNA President. As nursing students and nurses in practice continuing our education, we each bring unique perspectives and experiences that strengthen our profession. I am excited to begin the work of our members and to build that bigger table where every voice matters and where we can collectively shape the future of nursing education and healthcare."
As NSNA President, Mr. Barrett wants to focus on advocacy for nursing students, faculty, the communities and the profession. "There's an old saying in advocacy: 'If you're not at the table, you're on the menu.' But we have a bolder vision," he shares. "We're not just pulling up a chair – we're building a bigger table. A table where every nursing students' voice echoes through the halls and where decisions on the future of the nursing profession are made. A table where the future of healthcare is shaped by those who deliver it."
More recently, Mr. Barrett received the honor and title of Kentucky Colonel designated by the Governor of Kentucky, recognizing his work as State President of KANS. He also received the NSNA DAISY Award for Extraordinary Student Leader at the NSNA 73rd Annual Convention, in Seattle, WA. Mr. Barrett graduated from Madisonville Community College, Madisonville, KY with an associate degree in nursing in December 2024.
"President Barrett embodies the heart of servant leadership and the vision of a wise sage," said Dr. Kenya Williams, EdD, MBA, MSN, RN, RP, CAE, FNYAM, FADNL, FAAN, NSNA Chief Executive Officer. "His deep understanding of our mission, shaped by his invaluable service on the previous board, makes him uniquely equipped to lead in this pivotal time for nursing. I am thrilled to continue working alongside him as we chart a bold and inclusive path for the future of our profession."
As NSNA President, Mr. Barrett serves as chair of the NSNA Board of Directors and Executive Committee; as a member of the NSNA Finance Committee; and as ex-officio member of the Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association Board of Trustees.
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