North Central Missouri College nursing student Asa Palmeri recently attended Missouri Nurse Advocacy Day at the state capitol. During the event, he listened to guest speakers, learned about legislative bills impacting healthcare in Missouri, connected with fellow nursing students, and met Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe.
Missouri Nurse Advocacy Day aims to increase awareness of the political process among nurses and nursing students. The event helps participants understand the legislative process and equips them with effective advocacy techniques for their patients and practice. The event highlighted the importance of legislative advocacy, identified the Missouri Nurses Association’s key legislative priorities, and outlined what is needed from each nurse in the state to be successful at the Capitol.
Asa shared, “I was able to listen to the Governor give a speech advocating for nurses and nursing students and visit the capitol to meet with lobbyists and legislators who are currently fighting for various nursing and healthcare-related bills. Overall, it was a really rewarding day.”
During the day, Asa delivered a speech welcoming participants, informing them on how they could advocate for nursing, and providing information on MONSA (Missouri Nursing Students’ Association) and NSNA (National Student Nurses’ Association). Listen to Asa’s speech
Andrea Schuelke, NCMC PN to ADN Online Coordinator said, “Asa has a clear drive and passion for nursing. He goes above and beyond, and makes the most of every learning and leadership opportunity that comes his way. We are beyond proud of him and his representation of NCMC. He has a bright future ahead of him and we are honored to have been a part of his journey!”
Asa is pursuing his associate in nursing degree and plans to graduate in May from NCMC. North Central Missouri College expresses pride and recognition to Asa for his dedication to healthcare and his representation of nursing students at the capitol.
To learn more about NCMC’s nursing programs, visit www.ncmissouri.edu/ or contact the nursing department at (660) 359-3948.