Last October, RPNs from across the province gathered in London, Ontario, for two days of engagement, networking, and a celebration of practical nursing at WeRPN’s 61st Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference. The agenda was packed with opportunities for learning, knowledge exchange, and discussion about the latest trends in nursing.
The two-day event kicked off with a passionate keynote by Erin Davis, former radio host of 98.1 CHFI’s Morning Show. Erin shared the captivating story of her experience with loss and grief after the unexpected loss of her daughter Lauren, at the young age of 24. Through her engaging storytelling, wit, and humor, Erin set the tone for an inspiring event.
To start our AGM, we were joined by the Leader of the Ontario Liberal Party, MPP John Fraser, who shared stories about growing up as the son of a nurse. Our CEO Dianne Martin also set the stage for the evolution of RPNAO’s look and feel and brought branding leader Erin Brand of Parcel Design up to showcase our new brand WeRPN, which was met with much support from the audience. Members then voted for their Board representative for Region 1, re-electing Melissa Erdodi.
Over the course of the two days, attendees enjoyed a series of breakout sessions focused on topics ranging from the RPN leadership, quality care improvement, and CNO’s code of conduct to supporting nurses with disabilities and the role of the natural environment in health care.
Callout: We thank all the RPNs and health partners who joined us.
The Evening Gala was yet again a fun-filled affair thanks to the return of energetic Master of Ceremonies George Thomas. Within minutes of taking the stage in his festive costumes, George has guests up on the dance floor. We also welcomed local MPP Teresa Armstrong, who delivered remarks about the important roles nurses play. During the gala, WeRPN also celebrated the work of RPNs from across the province with its Annual Awards of Excellence.
Day 2 began with the screening of Cracked: new light on dementia, innovative theatre production, and film that challenges the stigma associated with dementia, followedby an engaging discussion. During the afternoon, we were delighted to welcome Ontario’s Minister of Health, Christine Elliott, who shared details about the government’s plans to end hallway healthcare with the creation of Ontario Health Teams.
One of the highlights of the conference was a mid-day plenary that featured stories from RPNs. The five RPNs who took part in our 2019 Caring Ontario Forward Nursing Week campaign, shared their personal stories and career trajectories, highlighting the challenges and opportunities they faced along their paths. This engaging discussion with Jen Calver, Deanna Clatworthy, Wendy Colmenero, Sandra Osbourne, and Megan Sloan, shed light on the shared experiences and unique perspectives of RPNs working in different settings across all corners of Ontario. The conference concluded with an energetic and funny closing keynote by comedian Jody Urquhart.
We thank all the RPNs and health partners who joined us for this exciting event, and we hope to see many of you at our upcoming 62nd AGM and Conference.
