The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) successfully hosted the fourth annual University of Maine System (UMS) Nursing Research Symposium on Friday, Oct. 24, bringing together nursing professionals, educators, and students to share innovations in research, education, and clinical practice. The event was held in the Nadeau Hall conference room, with virtual participation available via Zoom.
The symposium, themed “Nursing on the Frontlines of Change: Compassion, Adaptability, and Strength,” highlighted the resilience, adaptability, and leadership that define the nursing profession. Attendees engaged in keynote speakers, podium presentations, and poster presentations from experts across the UMS.
Keynote speakers Erin Soucy Ph.D., RN, UMFK associate provost for academic affairs and dean of Nursing, Allied Health and Behavioral Science and Dr. Shannon Gauvin, DHA, MSN, RN, AHN-BC, University of Maine at Augusta director, program coordinator, and associate professor of Nursing opened the symposium with a session on Supporting Educator’s Learning to Enhance Teaching Effectiveness in Simulation Education. Presentations throughout the day addressed topics including higher nursing education and workforce development, clinical preparation and transition to practice for nurse practitioners, cultural competence and health equity in nursing care, innovative simulation and immersive virtual reality learning experiences, and the integration of artificial intelligence in nursing education.
The symposium provided attendees the opportunity to identify strategies to sustain healthy environments for nurses, students, and faculty, engage with colleagues in advancing nursing education and practice, and synthesize new knowledge to improve patient care and professional practice.
“This year’s symposium was an inspiring gathering of nursing professionals and students across Maine,” said Maisie Plourde, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, UMFK associate professor of Nursing and a member of the symposium organizing committee. “The presentations, discussions, and poster sessions fostered meaningful dialogue and collaboration that will continue to influence nursing education and practice statewide.”
This nursing continuing professional development activity was approved by the Connecticut Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.