An Inspirational Letter to the Nursing Students…

Dear Nursing Students,

It is with great joy and pride that I welcome you into this noble and rewarding profession. Nursing is more than a career; it is a calling to serve, to advocate, and to care for others with compassion, excellence, and integrity. These are the very values that guide The Professional Nurses Association of Dutchess/ Putnam (PNA), and they are the values we hope to inspire in each of you.

My journey in nursing began on the beautiful island of Dominica, where I was born and raised. In 2012, I moved to the United States to pursue my education. Since then, I have been fortunate to gain growth opportunities both academically and professionally, earning my Associate of Applied Science in Nursing in 2015, my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2018, and my Master of Science in Nursing Education in 2023, and now working towards a Ph.D. in Nursing at Pace University. Along the way, I have worked in various inpatient and outpatient settings, serving as a bedside nurse, charge nurse, aesthetic nurse, and, most recently, as a clinical associate professor. Each step has shown me that growth in nursing is limitless when you stay committed to lifelong learning and compassionate service.

The Professional Nurses Association of Dutchess/ Putnam Inc. (PNA) exists to support you on that very journey. As part of our organization, you will gain access to mentorship, networking, continuing education, and advocacy. As part of our organization, you will have access to mentorship, networking, continuing education, advocacy opportunities, and a community of nurses dedicated to advancing the profession. You will be connected with leaders and peers who share your passion for patient care, professional growth, and community service. Most importantly, you will never walk this path alone.

To our future nurses, I encourage you to remain curious, compassionate, and always remember why you chose this profession. The challenges are real, but the rewards of touching lives, promoting health, and leading change are invaluable. I invite you to join us in the Putnam/Dutchess Nurses Association, where together, we can amplify our voices and elevate the nursing profession for generations to come.

With pride and encouragement,
Nicaise S Williams-Douglas MSN-Ed, RN CALA
President of Professional Nurses Association of Dutchess/ Putnam Inc.