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By Samta Bhakta, MHA (she/her/hers); NCNA Manager of Special Projects
The Diversity in Nursing Leadership Fellowship is centered around individual goal development, with sessions focused on the challenges frequently faced by underrepresented populations. In 2024, NCNA received a grant from the National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing in hopes of meeting the diverse needs of marginalized nurses and providing leadership development opportunities.
Throughout the course of the 2024-2025 fellowship, our Fellows expressed the importance of this program. They felt heard, saw advancement in their professional growth, and found ways to connect with one another and build nurturing relationships with diverse like-minded individuals. Put simply: many found that they are not alone in their experiences.
NCNA continues to work on its path of Relentless Inclusion and emphatically embedding the ideals of that strategic priority into our everyday work. The road ahead for DEI is bumpy and winding with challenges, but it also lays groundwork for opportunities in this unprecedented era. By continuing to uphold and embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion – even in the face of pushback from outside the organization – we strengthen the nursing profession. Intentionally focusing on diversity and belonging is not only the right thing to do, but it also will allow us to learn, connect, and continue to advance Nursing Forward®.
The Diversity in Nursing Leadership Fellowship is not federally funded and NCNA is fully committing to this important program with the backing of private funding. Thank you to Blue Cross NC for giving the Fellowship the vital financial support it needs to thrive.
We hope you will consider applying for our 2025-2026 application cycle!