Greetings All !!

Members of UAPRN and Non-Members:

That time is quickly approaching in which members and non-members come together for the state UAPRN conference. Historically, it's been a time in which faces are put to known names and we get to learn more about what individual UAPRN chapters are doing in their parts of the state. It also allows a time for conference attendees to meet state officers and invest some face to face time with your state leaders. Of noted importance, it becomes my arduous task as your state president to rise to the occasion and sit in the "hot seat" while attendees may ask me any questions relating to our organization. My other objective is to provide a sense of organizational unity and collegiality that extends to all corners of our state by instilling in our members of UAPRN that we are all one state organization working together on identified goals and objectives, albeit, we are also 12 local chapters striving to perform these tasks in their local communities.

Solidarity and organizational collaboration are weaved throughout the events each year at the state conference. However, I would also state that we should strive to be in attendance to offer support for the host chapter as well as show our gratitude to the conference planning committee members. Usually, those committee members wear this unique facial expression depicting their relief that the dates have finally arrived, but also an expression of fatigue and almost melancholy. Thus, if you are in attendance please do this favor for me. Make a conscience effort in seeking out those planners and show your appreciation and gratitude for their year-long marriage to this event. These men and women are the true heroes and celebrities of our annual state conference.

Lastly, I strongly encourage, allow me to reiterate its significance, I vehemently recommend that all UAPRN student members attend this year's conference in Macon, Georgia on September 12-13, 2014.

Conference registration along with the conference brochure are located on our state website of UAPRN Georgia. Do your homework, prepare in advance, practice your elevator pitch of your plans post-graduation, and assemble your professional portfolios to present to those UAPRN members that you will approach to ask about precepting you. Your next preceptor may be at this conference. Your future employer for your first APRN position may be at this conference. Dress professionally, appear polished, articulate, and poised from your efforts in preparing for this important conference! My eyes and many others' eyes will also be upon you!

I am looking forward in seeing and speaking with as many as possible at Macon's conference.

James F. Lawrence, Ph.D. APRN BC CHPN CPS FAANP
UAPRN State President