Nursing Week – Celebrating Across the Province
The Alberta Association of Nurses (AAN) was thrilled to be able to connect face-to-face with AAN members to celebrate Nursing Week in events across the province. Read below for event details from Grande Prairie, a joint event with UNA Local 415, and Foothills Medical Clinic.
_________________________________________________________________
Grande Prairie
The AAN hosted an evening event in Grande Prairie at ‘Better Than Fred’s’ on May 7, and it was a significant gathering for the nursing community. Hosted by AAN CEO Kathy Howe and AAN Board Director Stephanie Barker, the event brought together 19 dedicated AAN members. The venue, known for its vibrant atmosphere, provided a welcoming space for attendees to engage in meaningful conversation about pressing issues in the nursing field.
The event concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue and action. Members expressed appreciation for the opportunity to connect with peers and leaders in the field, leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and community. The in-person event at ‘Better Than Fred’s’ not only highlighted issues in nursing but also reinforced the collective strength and resilience of the nursing community in Grande Prairie.
(Below: AAN members in Grande Prairie with Kathy Howe, AAN CEO, and Stephanie Barker, Board Director, gathered to celebrate Nursing Week).
AAN with UNA Local 415 – South Health Campus
During Nursing Week, a special event was co-hosted with UNA Local 415 at South Health Campus. AAN joined UNA local executives to honour the dedication and hard work of nursing professionals.
The event provided an excellent opportunity for collaboration between the Alberta Association of Nurses and UNA Local 415, highlighting the shared commitment to support and recognize the vital contributions of nurses. The gathering fostered a sense of community and appreciation among attendees, strengthening ties between the organizations. A door prize draw added an extra element of fun, and Board Director Caroline Knox presented the lucky winner Clara Hlabangana, NP, with an AAN gift bag!
The Alberta Association of Nurses expresses gratitude to Stephanie Wilcox and the UNA Local 415 executives for their invitation and the chance to work together. The event underscored the importance of partnership in advancing the interests of nurses and enhancing the nursing profession.
(Below: Board Director Caroline Knox with gift bag winner Clara Hlabangana, NP)
Foothills Medical Clinic
The Alberta Association of Nurses visited Unit 36 at Foothills Medical Centre, engaging with frontline staff and nursing students to celebrate Nursing Week. The visit was part of AAN’s ongoing commitment to connect with nurses across the province, listening to their experiences and sharing the association’s purpose.
During the visit, AAN spoke about the important role the association plays in supporting Alberta’s nurses through its core pillars: collective advocacy, member benefits, meaningful connection, and professional development for all nurses—whether they are just beginning their careers or are seasoned professionals. Staff and students had the opportunity to ask questions, share their perspectives, and learn more about how AAN is working to advance the nursing profession.
The visit underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in nursing, and AAN’s dedication to being a strong, independent voice for nurses across Alberta.
(Below: AAN’s Operations Director, Terri Shaul, set up a table with AAN swag and cake at Foothills Medical Clinic.)
