For student nurses attending Student Nurse Political Action Day (SNPAD), the march to the Illinois Capitol is sure to be a memorable and powerful experience.
“Watching 1,000 future nurses march towards the Capitol is awe inspiring,” says Susan Swart, EdD, MS, RN, CAE and Executive Director of ANA-Illinois.
But the march and rally are only part of the day-long conference for student nurses, hosted by ANA-Illinois, in Springfield, Illinois, on April 18, 2023.
What’s Happening at SNPAD 2023
The theme for the conference this year is “Human First, Nurse Second.” This year’s theme serves as a reminder that nurses’ humanity and well-being are the foundations of professional success.
- ANA-Illinois Executive Director Susan Swart will deliver the keynote address on this year’s theme.
- The ANA-Illinois Lobbyist will present in-depth information about the Illinois’ 103rd General Assembly legislative session.
- Student nurses can earn certification with Stop the Bleed® Hands-On Skills Training, which takes place before SNPAD programming begins in the morning.
Join the March
After the conference concludes in the afternoon, student nurses will march together to the Capitol and rally at the Illinois State Capitol steps to advocate for nurses and improvements in healthcare across Illinois.
“The rally empowers participants and sends a message to the legislators that nurses care about health policy and we are there to advocate for our patients and our profession,” says Swart.
The march begins at 2:15 p.m. at the Bank of Springfield Convention Center. Participants are encouraged to wear a “Human First, Nurse Second” t-shirt available at SNPAD to help amplify the message to legislators.
Register for SNPAD
Register now to join us in Springfield, Illinois, on April 18, 2023, for the 25th Student Nurse Political Action Day.
Registration is easy and affordable:
- Individuals can register online.
- Send your group registration form (.xlsx)to Jessica Mahnke at jessica@sysconsultingsolutions.com by March 28, 2023.
There is true power in numbers. Attending the conference and marching to the Capitol are meaningful and effective ways to engage in political action to advance nursing and healthcare in Illinois. We hope to see you there!