“Reflections from the Past, Celebration of the Present, Vision for the Future”

By: Nancy Nolasco Hoff, MSN, RN – PNACC Founding President 

 

The 25th anniversary celebration of PNACC started May 9, 2014 during Nurses Week. It was at that time when PNACC recognized nursing excellence among its members and awarded scholarships to four Filipino-American student nurses. The celebration ended October 18th when the newly elected 2014 -2016 officers were inducted. It was indeed a celebration of 25 years of “Making a Difference.” The theme for this momentous event was, “Reflections from the Past, Celebration of the Present, and Vision for the Future.”

 

PNACC has evolved from its humble beginnings to an organization that is relevant and focused on empowering its members. It celebrated the successes and accomplishments of its members and provided scholarships to Filipino-American student nurses to prepare for the future. PNACC members and leaders participated in local, national and international conferences and hosted two western region conferences. PNACC worked closely with PNAA in strengthening the association through representation, revitalization, recognition and research. PNACC continued to promote the image of the Filipino nurses in the Central Valley as essential members of the healthcare team through education, collaboration and participation.

 

PNACC is at the table to discuss the future of nursing in the Central Valley based on the Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations. Opportunities to lead initiatives, and be in the forefront to affect change in healthcare are truly rewarding. Equally rewarding was the opportunity to share blessings with the less fortunate through service, material and spiritual assistance. Outreach programs widened and aligned with the national goal of the organization. PNACC continues to be the partner of the Philippine Consulate in emergency and disaster response for the Central Valley.

 

The October evening was the end of the present and beginning of the future. The evening was a celebration of what PNACC has become. Another layer of foundation has been laid to strengthen the organization. Seeds of wisdom were planted and new paths were created for others to follow. That evening PNAA President Leticia Hermosa’s presence and message inspired the newly inducted PNACC officers and members. Western Region Vice President Mindy Ofiana was present to assist in recognizing the contribution of Stephanie Robinson, Director of Nursing at Fresno City College, not only for what she does for PNACC but most especially for what she has done for the success of the “Curriculum Concurrency” project for the Filipino-American graduates of Philippine nursing schools.

 

The future of PNACC is bright. The reflections from the past and the colorful lights of the present will create a vibrant vision for the future. PNACC will turn challenges to success and will seize opportunities for a better future. Many paths had been created, roadmaps designed and a solid foundation is in place. PNACC will create new paths, design new roadmaps and not only will be part of change but will initiate change for a brighter future. PNACC will have the strength and skill of the members, creativity and wisdom of its leaders and unwavering faith in the heart of its members.

 

The 2014 – 2016 PNACC officers were inducted by Philippine Vice Consul CarlynMonastrial. The highly motivated slate of officers led by Sally Wee will no doubt embrace PNAA President Hermosa’s call to “Lead, Empower and Transform.” The morning after the celebration, PNAA President Letty Hermosa and Western Region Vice President Mindy Ofiana met with the newly inducted officers to update them on where PNAA is and to share with them the PNAA goals for the next two years. It was a successful and productive conversation and sharing. A great start in making PNACC’s vision for the future a reality