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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 26, 2007
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Dermatology Nurses’ Association Embraces the Future of the Specialty at Anniversary Convention
During the convention, DNA celebrated its 25th Anniversary and recognized outstanding members.
Pitman, NJ – The Dermatology Nurses’ Association (DNA) drew over 1,000 attendees to its 25th Anniversary Convention in Washington, DC, February 1-4, 2007, making it one of the highest-attended conventions in DNA history.
Armed with the theme Embracing the Future of Dermatology, attendees reflected on DNA’s history and mission to advance dermatology nursing as well as memorable moments from the past, and looked to the future of the specialty.
To commemorate the 25th anniversary, DNA held a special celebration during the Opening Reception on Thursday, February 1. Participants networked, enjoyed a festive “Moonlight by Monuments” theme and had an opportunity to have their photos taken in front of a Capitol Building display, a very well-received remembrance sponsored by Galderma. All attendees received pashminas embroidered with the 25th anniversary logo as a keepsake.
Attendees also enjoyed an expanded exhibit hall with more than 80 exhibitors filling over 100 booths, as well as special events, networking opportunities and a wide slate of education sessions. The sessions, taught by experts in the nursing, medical and research communities, covered such topics as nurses’ roles in treating patients with skin cancer; basic and advanced wound care; protecting skin for life; connections between psychiatry and dermatology; and influencing legislative change.
“The convention always proves to be a stimulating event, and the 25th anniversary certainly contributed to a wonderful atmosphere,” said DNA’s new president, Susan Tofte, MS, RN, FNP-C. “We are looking forward to an exciting future.”
Keynote speaker Alvin Law helped elevate the attendee experience with his inspiring opening address. Law, a Thalidomide baby, was born without arms. In a humorous yet honest address, Law shared his life story, described his family’s support in teaching him he could be whatever he wanted, and showed the audience how he uses his feet to do just about everything.
Awards
Barbara Bielan, BSN, RN, NPC, received a lifetime achievement award during the Opening Reception on February 1. She was recognized for her outstanding dedication and loyalty to DNA. Bielan is retiring this year from being a nurse practitioner in dermatology, Kaiser Permanente, San Francisco, CA,
Diane Hanna, MSN, ARNP, received the President’s Award during DNA’s Business Meeting/Recognition Luncheon on Sunday, February 4. The award is given each year to an individual for outstanding contributions to DNA. Hanna is a family nurse practitioner at Midwest Dermatology, Leawood, KS.
2007-08 DNA Board of Directors
The members of DNA’s 2007-08 Board of Directors were inducted at the convention. They are:
| President |
Susan Tofte, RN, MS, FNP-C, Portland, OR |
| President-Elect |
Karen M. Fairbrother, BSN, CDE, DNC, Helena, MT |
| Immediate Past President |
Melodie Young, MSN, RN, ANP-C, Dallas, TX |
| Secretary/Treasurer |
Barbara Sinni-McKeehen, MSN, ARNP, DNC, Largo, FL |
| Director |
Trudy Adamson, BSN, RN, DNC, Byron, MN |
| Director |
Lakshi M. Aldredge, ANP-C, Beavercreek, OR |
| Director |
Nina MacDonald, BScN, RN, DNC, Vancouver, BC, Canada |
| Director |
Marianne C. Tawa, MSN, RN, ANP, Medfield, MA |
Senior Staff
Senior Staff
Executive Director |
Michael Brennan, CMP, Pitman, NJ |
| Association Services Manager |
Eileen Schnapp, Pitman, NJ |
DNA will hold its 26th Annual Convention at the Las Vegas Hilton, Las Vegas, NV, March 27-30, 2008. For more information about DNA and its conferences, visit www.dnanurse.org or contact the National Office at East Holly Avenue Box 56, Pitman, NJ 08071; phone: 800-454-4DNA (4362) or 856-256-2330; e-mail: dna@ajj.com.
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The Dermatology Nurses’ Association (DNA) is a professional nursing organization comprised of a diverse group of individuals committed to quality care through sharing knowledge and expertise. DNA’s core purpose is to promote excellence in dermatologic care.