A Conference Like No Other: Turning Courage Into Collective Action
In a moment when nursing, healthcare, and society are facing unprecedented strain and unprecedented pressure socio-politically, the Opportunity & Impact in Nursing Summit hosted by the American Nurses Association emerges as a powerful convening space for truth, courage, and action.
This national summit takes place February 12th through 14th at the JW Marriott Hotel in Washington, DC, bringing together students, nurses, nurse leaders, educators, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and partners from across the country to do more than talk about equity, leadership, and impact – but show actions taken. This is a summit designed to collectively move the profession – and society- forward.
The Opportunity & Impact in Nursing Summit builds on the momentum of the inaugural 2025 Equity in Nursing Summit, expanding the conversation beyond awareness and intention to measurable outcomes and sustained change. At its core, the summit is about expanding pathways, dismantling barriers, and investing in the people and systems that shape the future of nursing.
Across 2 ½ days, participants will engage in thought-provoking keynotes, dynamic concurrent sessions, fireside chats, and immersive discussions that confront hard truths while offering disruptive, evidence-based solutions. Topics will span leadership development, workforce sustainability, policy and advocacy, academic–practice partnerships, health equity, and ethical governance that is grounded in our code of ethics.
This is not a conference built on comfort. It is a brave space that invites dialogue across differences, challenges entrenched systems, and calls on nurses to fully claim their positions of power as leaders, social change agents, and architects of a better future. Attendees will hear from nationally recognized voices and emerging leaders who are shaping policy, transforming education, and redefining what leadership looks like in today’s sociopolitical landscape.
Collaboration and Accountability
A hallmark of the summit is its emphasis on collaboration and accountability for impact. Participants will leave not only inspired but equipped with practical tools, scalable models, and partnerships that translate ideas into action long after the final session closes. A few highlights from the summit:
- The summit will also celebrate excellence through the American Nurses Foundation Health Equity Awards, including the inaugural global impact award for MD Governor Wes Moore
- A live 2-hour re-enactment of “A Refutation,” which includes acclaimed actors and reactions from our nursing icons
- Plenary sessions with Corenza Townsend, RDML Jennifer Moon, Joan C. Williams, Lily Zheng and the mother who delivered her newborn roadside after being discharged in active labor, Mercedes Wells.
- Reimagine, Enlighten, and Disrupt Talk,s along with Sunrise sessions with nurses and nurse leaders from around the country
Whether you are a student nurse, direct care nurse, executive leader, academic, or partner invested in the future of nursing, the Opportunity & Impact in Nursing Summit offers something rare: a space to be challenged, affirmed, and moved – all at the same time.
This is where momentum becomes movement.
This is where opportunity turns into impact.
Join us in Washington, DC, February 12–14, 2026 and be part of shaping what comes next for nursing.
