Dear SDSNA Members,
Over the past several months, the SDSNA Board has been carefully evaluating our conference registration, member participation, and the future of our organization. We want to be transparent with our members about the challenges we are facing and ask for your support as we determine the path forward.
Like many professional organizations, SDSNA has experienced declining engagement. We are struggling to fill leadership positions, recruit active volunteers, and generate sufficient attendance at our annual conference. In March, we shared information about several open board positions, including Secretary, Treasurer, and Data Coordinator. Since that time, our President has resigned, and our President-Elect has graciously stepped into the role of Acting President. We are thankful that one member has expressed interest in serving as President-Elect, but additional leadership is urgently needed.
After careful consideration, the Board has made the difficult decision to cancel the July conference due to low registration and concerns about the membership participation. If you made reservations you will need to cancel them with the hotel. Your registration will be reimbursed. We will be having a member/board meeting in the near future. It will be announced and you are all invited.
While this is disappointing, we do not believe it has to be the end of SDSNA. School nurses across South Dakota need a professional organization that advocates for our students, supports our practice, and provides opportunities for networking and professional growth. However, SDSNA can only continue if members are willing to participate, serve, and help lead.
Being a member is just the beginning. Real impact comes from being active—by getting involved, sharing your voice, and helping shape the future of the organization.
In the coming weeks, the Board will be discussing options for the future of SDSNA. We encourage every member to reflect on what this organization has meant to you and consider how you might contribute. Whether serving in a leadership role, volunteering on a committee, helping with membership recruitment, or simply sharing ideas, your involvement matters.
Thank you for your continued support of school nursing and the students we serve.
Sincerely,
The SDSNA Board of Directors