AONL 2022 Inspiring Leaders – Recap

By Cindy Plonien

The AONL Conference began with a bang. The Nurse Northwell Choir (America’s Got Talent finalists) led the way with a display of song and dance talent that included their renditions of “I’ll Never Give Up on You” and “Stand by You.” The keynote speakers were awesome. “THE POWER OF JOY” was the presentation title and message shared by the keynote speaker Shabnam Mogharabi, founder of SoulPancake. Tim Porter-O’Grady, noted for his work on professional governance models and leadership, presented futuristic viewpoints related to “ENDINGS AND BEGINNINGS: A NEW REALITY FOR NURSING PROFESSIONAL GOVERNANCE.” Dan Pink taught attendees “THE POWER OF REGRET: HOW LOOKING BACKWARDS MOVES US FORWARD.” Plenary sessions included a panel designed to offer workforce solutions for nurse executives. Detailed were creative workforce strategies implemented in their organizations. The conference ended with Louie Swartzberg, an award-winning cinematographer, inspiring the audience with “VISUAL HEALING FOR MIND, BODY AND SOUL."

The conference schedule was filled with networking events, an expansive Expo Exhibit Hall and informative education breakout classes. Among the many messages conveyed, highlighted was the value that diversity, equity and inclusion bring as part of the AONL’s organizational culture. Also, nurse well-being as a priority. Teachings related to leadership learning and emerging technology were threaded throughout conference presentations.