Happy September!  It is the month that signals not only the return of fall and the beginning of another academic year, but also the return of our annual AAHN conference. Gathering together from around the world, we share our latest historical research, celebrate achievements, renew old friendships, and welcome new members to our amazing association.

This year’s conference in Dallas, Texas, promises to be an exciting one – and, by the way, you can still register! Implementing our Diversity and Inclusion initiative, this year’s pre-conference will focus on the discovery of primary source materials on heretofore under-represented communities of nurses. Adhering to that theme, our keynote speaker, Dr. Barbra Mann Wall, will address the idea of revisiting and reinterpreting previously published narratives through the lens of “inclusivity.” Then, in addition to the usual break-out sessions, special panels, and opportunities for networking, the Board will present our new Strategic Plan to attendees during the membership luncheon on Saturday. (For more details about the conference, please see the conference brochure on this website.)

Because we are meeting in Dallas, during the conference we have the exciting opportunity to visit the Book Depository at Dealey Plaza – the site from which Lee H. Oswald assassinated U.S. President John F. Kennedy on that tragic November day in 1963. Hosted by Texas Women’s University, our Friday evening reception at the Depository will provide the opportunity for members to tour the JFK museum located on the building’s sixth floor. From my perspective, as one who still remembers that historic event, the visit may prove to be the highlight of our conference!

As we remember JFK, and in the setting of dwindling membership and participation in AAHN, I cannot help but recall some of his most famous words, spoken from the steps of the U.S. Capitol on his inauguration day: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.” I ask the same of you today: think about what you can do for our association to ensure its viability and sustainability in the future. We need an active and involved membership. I welcome your thoughts, ideas, and participation as we approach a new decade.  (Feel free to contact me at [email protected].)

I hope to see you in Texas! Let’s make our attendance numbers reflect the size of the state!