Long before nursing professional development (NPD) professionals make their travel plans for the annual ANPD Aspire Convention, the Convention Content Planning Committee (CPC) works to pave the way for the best educational opportunities of the year. This year’s CPC chair and co-chair sat down to share what attendees can expect from—and what they’re most excited for—at this year’s convention.

What have you enjoyed so far about taking part in the CPC and planning for this year’s Aspire Convention?

Linda Bub, MSN, RN, GCNS-BC, NPD-BC (LB): I have so enjoyed planning the convention in the Chicagoland area! It’s in my backyard, where half my colleagues work, so planning a convention this close to home has been a pleasure. I love reading about the amazing work NPDs are doing across the country!

Melissa Dibble, MSN, RN, NPD-BC (MD): I think what I enjoy most about the CPC is collaborating with NPDs from various geographical locations—it’s great to plan the convention and have fun while doing it. The best part of this year’s Aspire Convention planning has been being able to reflect on prior year’s conventions to continue to make improvements and offer the best content based on the identified needs. 

What can attendees expect from this year’s event?

LB: I believe attendees will be delighted with our Game Changer presentations—we have a nice variety of topics! Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN, “The Inspiration Nurse,” starts us off on Tuesday with impactful motivation and opportunities in nursing.

Brigit M. Carter, PhD, RN, FAAN, is our afternoon Game Changer on Wednesday with a focus on inclusive excellence. We round out the convention with Dan Weberg as the closing speaker on Friday, focusing on leading through innovation.

MD: Attendees can expect amazing content that spans the breadth of NPD roles and responsibilities while incorporating fun networking opportunities. The CPC has also been intentional about offering content for unique NPD specialties such as ambulatory and incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

Is there anything different they should know about?

LB: Every year at convention, there is an opportunity to serve the community, which changes based on the location. I am so excited about what we have planned this year, so be on the lookout for the details—you won’t want to pass it up!

MD: I agree with Melissa, there is a wonderful opportunity with the chosen community organization to give back to those in need! In addition, based on the feedback of the attendees, pre-conference sessions were carefully chosen and timed to provide the best experience for those interested.

What educational sessions in the program are you most excited about attending?

LB: I always love going to the awards ceremony. Hearing about the inspiring NPDs across the country and the world always gets me excited for convention. Poster sessions are a slice of NPD life, and I love being able to stop at posters, talk with the presenter(s), and hear their stories!

MD: Being an ambulatory educator, I am most excited about the content that intersects ambulatory and NPD practice. I am also excited about Star Search because it’s an excellent opportunity for aspiring speakers to develop. Last year’s Star Search was so inspiring!

Can you tell us about opportunities for NPDs to network with one another?

MD: There are so many opportunities to network—formal and informal. The formally planned networking opportunities are the poster reception, Partner Pavilion, and Bingo Singo (bingo with songs). I encourage all attendees to bring business cards and meet other attendees on the elevators, during meals, or while waiting for sessions to start. The informal networking opportunities have been the most valuable for me. 

LB: I could not agree more with Melissa! All the social/not as formal events are a fantastic way to get to know one another. Strike up a conversation with your next door “seat” neighbor or sit with someone new at lunch! You never know who you are going to be talking with, and it’s a wonderful way to build collaborative relationships with NPDs from anywhere.

Are there any safety protocols being put into place to ensure the well-being of attendees?

LB: We will be continuing our usual health and safety policies. The health and safety of the 2024 Aspire Convention attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and staff remains a top priority. ANPD actively monitors health and safety guidelines and plans the event adhering to the latest guidance for masks, physical distancing, and related protocols defined by the CDC, the Illinois State Department of Health and local health authorities. While masks are not required at the 2024 Aspire Convention, we ask all attendees to respect the choices of their colleagues to mask and/or socially distance throughout the meetings.

Anything else you would like to highlight about the convention?

LB: Be prepared to take back many ideas and information. Bring a notebook or use your laptop/other device to take notes to follow up on, and have your ANPD-provided convention resources handy. Be sure to look for your CPC members and say hi—we will be wearing something fun to stand out in the crowd!

MD: Have fun! And if you see me in the hallway, introduce yourself—I would love to meet you!

Interested in learning more about the 2024 Aspire Convention? Visit the event webpage for the event schedule, travel information, and more.