Dear Friends,

Nurses from around the globe gathered this May in Eldoret, Kenya, for the AMPATH Global Nursing Conference “Advancing the Role of Nurses in Global Health.” Led by AMPATH Global, the conference sought to address issues impacting global populations through the lens of nursing practice. IU School of Nursing faculty member Dr. Jane von Gaudecker led the planning and implementation efforts on the conference committee.

For two days, presentations and discussions focused on the most pressing issues of our times – health disparities, heart disease, cancer, and smoking among others. Dr. Rebecca Ellis presented "Engaging Students in Improving Patient Safety and Quality Outcomes: The Harm Prevention Partners Program,” and I had the honor of delivering the keynote address for the second day of the conference. What began with robust conversations led to the germination of strategies that will now spread to communities around the world.

There are few opportunities for students and faculty to engage with developing countries. One of the most amazing experiences at the conference was witnessing the students, from IU and other global universities, unite to bloom and grow. These reciprocal and dynamic exchanges of knowledge and cultural understanding benefit everyone and often prove to be lifechanging. You’ll see that in alumna Amie Bockstahler’s story below.

Nursing fundamentally connects all of humanity. We have a key role to play in addressing global health issues, preparing students to lead in all communities, and building the bridges that lead to improved health outcomes and quality of life for all.