The Black Student Nurses Association hosted a ConnectFest on Nov. 16 at the Universities at Shady Grove, at which minority nurses from various specialties served on a panel and volunteered to serve as mentors for undergraduate nursing students.
Nurse mentors were represented from practice, research, and academia, with roles such as a critical care director, emergency room director, certified registered nurse anesthetist, and nurse practitioner.
Students in attendance heard from a panel of professionals and engaged in several rounds of table discussions with experienced nurses.
The goal of the program was to create a mentoring program to foster a safe space where culturally competent mentorships can be developed between minority nursing students and experienced nurses. Offering mentoring programs that connect students with resources for success is a necessary strategy to build a more diverse nursing workforce and advance health equity.