Go beyond your classroom and clinical experiences by attending the 2021 NJNS Virtual Annual Convention!
Each year, the New Jersey Nursing Students, Inc. (NJNS) Board of Directors puts together a two-day convention that features various leadership and career development opportunities. Over 1,000 nursing students attend for opportunities to listen to renowned nursing leaders during breakout focus sessions. Meet and network with students, faculty members, and nursing leaders from across New Jersey. Breakout focus sessions will enhance your academic and clinical skills. You will expand your network at the exhibit hall and social events, like the First Night Party! Attendees, especially graduating nursing students, will gain confidence during the NCLEX review session. The convention includes a Narcan training program on the second day.
Convention is a great time to develop your leadership skills as a monitor, delegate, or elected candidate for the state NJNS board! Register now! Enjoy lifelong memories, leadership, and endless educational opportunities!
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Alana Cueto
MSN, RN, CNL-C
PRESENTING
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“Equity, Diversity & Advocacy: Beyond the Educational Setting”
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Alana has spent her professional career improving the health and well-being of vulnerable children and families living in distressed urban neighborhoods through service, scholarship, education, and advocacy. Alana is a registered professional nurse, certified clinical nurse leader and Fellow at the New York Academy of Medicine. She currently serves as President-Elect of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN).
Alana combined purpose and passion as Founding President of the NAHN Garden State Chapter having led the chapter in cultivating healthier communities for all residents in the state of New Jersey. She also served on Governor Phil Murphy’s Healthcare Transition Advisory Board for the State of New Jersey.
As a nurse member of the Nightingale Initiative for Global Health (NIGH) she contributed to the survey for the development of the Sustainable Development Goals used at the United Nations. She presented at the 2018 U N 62nd Commission on the Status of Women, Empowering Girls and Women through Innovative Nursing and Midwifery Interventions, and as panel presenter at the 2019 League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) State of LatinX Health in America Summit.
Alana has been honored for her leadership, health advocacy, and volunteerism. Recognitions include 2019 NJSNA/Institute for Nursing Dons & Divas Award, NAHN National Henrietta Villaescusa Community Service Award (2016), NAHN Ambassador Award (2016), Seton Hall University College of Nursing Elizabeth Ann Seton Young Alumni Award (2015), and the Hispanic Leadership of New Jersey Health Advocate Award (2015)- - a three-part award that includes a Bronze Medal of Honor and Special Recognition from both the United States Congress and the State of New Jersey Joint Legislative Commendation. On September 28, 2019, The Wilson Initiative for Health & Social Equity, Inc. honored Alana as an “Unsung Hero” for her advocacy in addressing the social determinants of health and for creating a more diverse workforce. The Alana Cueto Nursing Scholarship was also established by The Wilson Initiative to help pave the way for minority students pursuing careers in nursing.
Alana resides in the City of Perth Amboy, New Jersey where in 2018 she demonstrated her commitment to servant leadership by running against the incumbent for a City Council position. Despite not being elected to that role she continues her civic engagement and commitment to the community as a member of the City’s Planning Board and through collaboration with community leaders and stakeholders in an effort to engage residents on initiatives related to health and well- being.
Alana is proud to share that of all her achievements, the greatest one has been to be the mother of her two children; Wesley age 32 and Caryn age 28.