Meet the experts leading the 2026 ANA-Illinois Nurse Educators Summit.
Nursing education is evolving and preparing the next generation of nurses requires educators who are ready to evolve with it.
On Friday, September 11, 2026, ANA-Illinois invites nurse educators and leaders to the 2026 Nurse Educators Summit: Transforming Nursing Education Through Shared Vision, Shared Governance, and Collective Impact.
From workforce readiness and competency-based education to advocacy and community partnerships, four speakers will lead conversations around the challenges and opportunities shaping nursing education today.
Meet the Summit Speakers
Tiffany L. Simmons, M.Ed, RN, PhD(c)
The Alignment Imperative: Transforming Nursing Education Through Shared Vision, Shared Governance, and Collective Impact
Opening the Summit, Tiffany L. Simmons will explore what can happen when nursing education, practice, policy, technology, and community work toward a shared vision.
With more than 22 years of experience spanning clinical practice, academia, research, leadership, and community engagement, Simmons will challenge attendees to think differently about collaboration and the future of nursing education.
Pamela A. Di Vito-Thomas, PhD, RN
Competency-Based Education: Get on Board!
Are nursing graduates truly prepared for the realities of today’s healthcare environment?
Dr. Pamela A. Di Vito-Thomas will explore competency-based education and how educators can strengthen the connection between what students learn and what they must be prepared to demonstrate in practice.
Arlene Ryndak, MPH, BSN, RN
Building Advocacy Skills, Confidence, and Professional Voice Across the Nursing Profession
Nurses have a powerful voice but developing the confidence and skills to use it starts with education.
Arlene Ryndak will share strategies for incorporating advocacy into nursing education and helping nurses translate their professional expertise into meaningful action.
Michelle Henry, MSN, RN
Partnerships in Community Health
How can stronger partnerships better prepare nurses to serve the communities that need them?
Closing the Summit, Michelle Henry will explore the connection between nursing education, clinical practice, and community health and the role collaboration plays in preparing nurses for today’s healthcare needs.
Why Should You Attend?
The Nurse Educators Summit is more than an opportunity to hear from four accomplished speakers. It’s a chance to connect with fellow educators, exchange ideas, and leave with strategies you can apply within your own classroom, program, or organization.
Attendees will explore emerging approaches to nursing education, strengthen their understanding of advocacy and collaboration, and earn 4.0 contact hours.
Whether you’re teaching future nurses, leading a nursing program, supporting clinical education, or helping shape the nursing workforce, this conversation is for you.
Join Us September 11
The future of nursing begins with how we prepare nurses today. Join ANA-Illinois and be part of the conversation shaping what’s next.
Register here. In-person and live virtual attendance available.
Make It a Two-Day Experience & Save $25
The ANA-Illinois Professional Issues Conference follows on Saturday, September 12 at the same location. Register for both the Nurse Educators Summit and Professional Issues Conference and save $25.
Are you ready to join us?