Board Elections

Jami Blackwell, RN, MBA, BSN, TCRN, CBRN, CEN

Administrative Director Hospital Service Line, CoxHealth

Responsibilities: As the Administrative Director of the Hospital Service Line, I oversee the operations of the hospital to include the oversite of the Time Critical Diagnosis programs for the system. This includes our Level I trauma program. I am responsible for the operations and leading the collaboration of the care of the inpatients throughout the system, strengthening the collaboration of the entire trauma team.

Past Experience: Before joining the trauma team in 2006, I worked in roles caring for the trauma patient in various positions to include flight nursing, Emergency Department, Neuro/Trauma ICU, and Pediatric ICU. In 2006, I began my full-time trauma career in Trauma Services working as the Injury Prevention Coordinator and moving into the Trauma Program Manager position two years later. I was able to take the knowledge of my past experience and provide guidance to the care of the trauma patient and to build the program. Since that time, I served as a site surveyor for trauma programs and participated on state committees to assist in writing regulations and providing education to new trauma managers. I have most enjoyed being a mentor to trauma managers to help them grow into strong leaders. Over the last two years, I have been in the administrative position over the trauma program, continuing to provide the administrative support for the trauma program staff, using my experience to better support the program from the administrative level.

Statement of Intent: I am seeking the position of Board of Directors, President-Elect. I have been actively involved in STN in many capacities over the years. I have successfully supported my team to become one of the top Level I trauma centers in the state, providing strong mentorship and support as the program has grown. I would like to use my leadership strengths to assist in the continued growth of STN and supporting the mission, vision and the strategic plan of the organization. I feel the work of STN around advocacy, leadership and clinical performance aligns with my own goals and values as a trauma nurse.

Motivation: My motivation for running for this position is to connect trauma nurses across the continuum. One of my goals would be to make sure the committees have the support they need to fulfill the strategic goals of the organization and for the trauma nurses from all aspects of trauma care have the support and education they need to provide optimal trauma care. I truly feel, regardless of the role of the trauma nurse, we can all learn from each other through collaboration and mentorship.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees:

• Director-at-large for the STN board - Current Position
• Missouri Organization of Nurse Leaders Board - District Liaison 2022-2023
• Board of Certification of Emergency Nurses (BCEN) - Member of the Exam Construction Review Committee for the Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN) exam - began work in the early stages with the Role Delineation Project and then the development of the TCRN exam.
• Board of Certification of Emergency Nurses (BCEN) - Mentor for the Exam Construction Review Committee for the Certified Burn Registered Nurse (CBRN)
• TCAA Education Committee - 2022-2023
• TNCC Revision Work Team - 2022-2023
• Emergency Nurses Association
• Chapter President 2009-2013
• State President 2014-2016
• Emergency Nurses Association
• TCD Taskforce
• Trauma Sub Committee
• Pediatric Sub Committee
• Southwest Missouri EMS - Vice Chair

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN:

• Current Liaison for the following committees
• PTACC
• TACTIC
• Past Liaison for the following committee
• Research
• STN Mentor
• Poster Judge for Research and Evidence Based Practices
• Co-chair of the Advanced Trauma Program Management workgroup

Kristen Chreiman, MSN, RN, TCRN, NE-BC, CCRN

Trauma Program Manager, Penn Presbyterian Medical Center

Responsibilities: After holding many different roles within a trauma center such as clinical nurse, flight nurse, performance improvement coordinator and network consultant, I finally achieved my dream job as Trauma Program Manager. I have been privileged to serve in this role and I have a phenomenal team. Currently I have direct oversight of 12 FTEs and operations of the trauma program and trauma service, trauma registry, trauma performance improvement, injury prevention and outreach, and the Penn Acute Care Education program. I orchestrate interdisciplinary services and organizational systems of the trauma center to ensure optimal care of the injured patient and maintain trauma center accreditation. I strive to build effective teams to drive staff engagement and patient experience. I aim to support and foster relationships with local, national and international trauma program leaders, embedded navy program partners, referring facilities, prehospital providers and our trauma network clients to enhance trauma, surgical critical care and emergency surgery outcomes. I continue to partner with hospital leadership across Penn Medicine on strategies to enhance business continuity, disaster preparedness, health equity and outcomes, employee wellness and patient’s long-term recovery.

Past Experience: I graduated from Villanova University in 1995 (and again in 2015) and began my career in the ICU at a Level One trauma center just outside of the Philadelphia area. Since then, I have held several different positions as a clinical nurse, pre-hospital flight nurse, and outpatient clinic nurse. Through the last 30 years, I have had the privileged of some unique leadership experiences such as starting up a CVICU program, overseeing a Trauma Network, building and moving an established urban, academic Level One Trauma Center to a new location, and leading 10 outpatient practices, a global network and 2 proton startups through the COVID pandemic. Each time, I found my way back to my passion and what I love most of all, serving our critically injured patients, their families and the interprofessional teams that work so hard every day to provide the injured with the best chance of recovery. Most recently I hold the Trauma Program Manager role where I have spent most of my nursing career, Penn’s Level One Trauma Center at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center.

I have over 29 years of professional experience in healthcare with the majority focused on building and fostering strategic relationships, innovation, trauma center development, quality improvement initiatives and injury care. I am a lifelong learner and am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a focus on executive nursing leadership. My research interests include vascular access, trauma video review, trauma performance improvement, augmented reality in nursing and surgery, leveraging AI and biomedical engineering integration to enhance trauma care, long-term outcomes and recovery.

Statement of Intent: I can still remember my first shift off orientation as a trauma & critical care nurse. It was a crazy night shift with multiple traumas arriving. I vividly remember being singled because the patient was so critically ill and calculating the drip rates of the multiple pressors and taping them around the room for quick reference. A lot of wonderful changes have evolved since then with how we resuscitate injured patients and the technology we leverage to manage their care. During those early years, I found my affinity for trauma. I knew that this is where I was meant to be.

This however was not the only turning point in my now 29-year career. Many years later I met with a CEO of a hospital that offered me a different pathway. Although nervous to steer away from the bedside, I felt empowered as she explained the essence of leadership. She told me that leadership is the ability to serve not just one or two patients at a time but many, now and in future years to come. I took the leap and never regretted the decision. I have spent the later part of my career dedicated to making an impact by improving trauma center outcomes. Whether it was focusing on bedside practices, participating in national organizations like STN, engaging in research efforts, implementing new innovative technology, advocating for resources or legislative change, I remain committed to the mission of ensuring optimal and equitable trauma care to all people.

I am honored to submit my candidacy for the role of President-Elect/President of the Society of Trauma Nurses (STN). My journey within STN has been both enriching and transformative, having served as Secretary, twice as a Board Director at Large, and as a member of various committees. Through these roles, I have gained a deep understanding of STN’s mission, values, and the impact we strive to make in trauma care on both national and international levels.

My vision as President is to implement STN’s strategic plan to foster a global network of trauma professionals committed to advancing trauma care through collaboration, education, and advocacy. Building on my experience with STN, I aim to strengthen our partnerships with national and international trauma organizations, elevate our members' expertise through innovative educational programs, and advocate for trauma care policy improvements across the trauma continuum. I am dedicated to amplifying our collective voice to ensure that trauma nurses are equipped, recognized, and empowered to deliver high-quality, lifesaving care worldwide.

The Society of Trauma Nurses has been the cornerstone of my journey in trauma nursing, providing invaluable opportunities to build connections on both national and international levels. Through STN, I have been privileged to engage in bidirectional learning and to develop my own leadership skills. I am passionate about advancing our field and deeply committed to giving back to the organization that has shaped my career. Serving as STN President would allow me to continue this meaningful work, championing the mission of STN and supporting our community of dedicated professionals. Thank you for considering my candidacy. Together, we can drive trauma nursing forward and make a lasting impact.

Motivation: If elected as President-Elect of the Society of Trauma Nurses, I will be committed to championing our mission, vision, and core values by driving initiatives that empower trauma nurses and elevate the quality of care we provide. My motivation for this role stems from a profound dedication to advancing trauma care and supporting the professionals who make it possible. I have witnessed firsthand the resilience, skill, and dedication trauma nurses bring to their roles under immense pressure, and I am passionate about creating an environment where they feel valued, equipped, and ready to meet the demands of an evolving healthcare landscape.

My focus as President would be to foster collaboration across disciplines, advance educational and research opportunities, and advocate for policies that not only enhance patient outcomes but also prioritize the well-being of trauma nurses. I am driven to address pressing challenges in our field, such as workforce shortages, high turnover, and the complexity of patient needs, by promoting innovation, supporting professional development, and ensuring that trauma nursing has a strong voice at the decision-making table. Together, we can continue to shape the future of trauma nursing, uphold the highest standards of care, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of trauma patients and their families.

Additionally, I am driven by the desire to lead initiatives that address the current challenges facing the trauma nursing field, including workforce shortages, turnover, and the growing complexity of patient needs. My leadership experience and dedication to improving both patient care and the work environment for nurses position me to effectively partner with you and the board to guide STN in shaping the future of trauma nursing. I believe that by fostering innovation, supporting professional development, and advocating for a seat at the table, we can continue to elevate trauma nursing and ensure excellence in care for all trauma patients.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees: While my experience with governing boards is developing, I am actively engaged in various leadership roles at both local and state levels. I serve on the Pennsylvania Trauma Nurse Advisory Council, where I was elected Treasurer in 2023. Within my organization, I have consistently participated in a variety of committees, including the Workplace Violence Prevention Committee, Project Impact Committee (focusing on improving access to care), and UPHS Community Health Needs Assessment as the Community Violence Sub-Committee Chair. Additionally, I contribute to the Hospital-Based Violence Recovery program, Hospital Quality Committees aimed at reducing hospital-acquired infections and complications, and initiatives in disaster management and survivorship programs.

At the state level, I have also been involved in several critical committees, such as the Standards Committee, Outcomes Committee, Registry Committee, Technology Committee, and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee. These experiences have given me valuable insights into collaborative governance, strategic planning, and policy implementation, preparing me to bring a well-rounded perspective to board-level discussions and initiatives.

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN: My involvement with the Society of Trauma Nurses (STN) extends over 14 years. It has truly been fulfilling, allowing me to contribute to numerous initiatives and serve in diverse leadership capacities over the years. My active engagement began with participation in several STN committees, including the Leadership Committee, and as the Online Digital Editor for the Journal of Trauma Nursing where I was able to engage with followers and bring awareness to all the wonderful activities and benefits of STN. I was first elected to the STN Board of Directors as a Director at Large in 2018, where I also served as a liaison to the Leadership Committee. In 2021, I was re-elected to the board, where I served as liaison to both the Government Advocacy and Public Policy (GAPP) Committee and the Injury Prevention Special Interest Group, joined the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, and was appointed to the Executive Committee. During this time, I led a national focus group of nursing leaders to create a position paper on Trauma Registry recommendations and best practices.

Currently, I serve as the STN Secretary, where I am the liaison to the Journal of Trauma Nursing’s editorial board and the TCRN Committee. Over the last 18 months, I co-led a national workgroup focused on developing the Advanced Trauma Program Management (ATPM) course, a new leadership development program for experienced trauma program managers. This initiative involved several multidisciplinary teams of thought leaders and aims to enhance leadership skills, critical thinking, strategic planning, public relations, advocacy, project management, and financial acumen for trauma professionals in pivotal roles.

Below is a summary of my STN roles and contributions:

• 2024-present: STN Secretary
• 2024-present: STN TCRN Committee, Board Liaison
• 2024- present: Journal of Trauma Nursing Editorial Board, Board Liaison
• 2023-present: STN Executive Committee
• 2023-present: Co-Lead STN Advanced Trauma Program Management Taskforce
• 2023-2024: STN GAPP Committee, Board Liaison
• 2022: Lead STN Taskforce - Statement on Trauma Registry Recommendations and Best Practices
• 2020-2023: STN DEI Committee
• 2022-2024: STN Injury Prevention Special Interest Group, Board Liaison
• 2019-2024: STN Board of Directors, Director at Large (2 Terms)
• 2016-2023: STN Leadership Committee
• 2016-present: Reviewer for Journal of Trauma Nursing
• 2015-2016: STN Leadership Institute Course
• 2010 – present: STN member

My commitment to STN’s mission and my hands-on experience in these roles have given me the opportunity to help shape programs, advocate for our field, and enhance professional development pathways for trauma nurses within my home organization and beyond.

Melissa Smith, MSN, RN

Trauma Program Manager, Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Responsibilities: As a Trauma Program Manager, my primary responsibilities include overseeing the daily operations of the trauma program to ensure high-quality patient care and adherence to ACS and State regulatory standards. This involves coordinating trauma services across departments, managing data collection and analysis for performance improvement, and ensuring compliance with accreditation requirements. I also collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement trauma practice management guidelines, and serve as a liaison between the hospital and external agencies. Additionally, I am responsible for budget management, staff supervision, and community outreach and injury prevention initiatives related to trauma care. I serve as a member of the TN Trauma Care Advisory Council and function as a nurse reviewer for the State of Tennessee. Additionally, I am a nurse reviewer for the American College of Surgeons.

Past Experience: I have spent the past 22 years at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, serving in various roles within the Division of Trauma. I began my career as a Trauma ICU nurse, dedicating eight years to direct patient care. Subsequently, I took on the role of Trauma Nurse Educator for the Trauma ICU. For the past 13 years, I have served as the Trauma Program Manager. During this time, I transformed our trauma program from a state-verified trauma center to an ACS Level 1 verified trauma center. I have successfully navigated four verification visits since our initial accreditation.

Statement of Intent: I want to express my sincere interest in the Treasurer position at STN. Although my direct experience in financial management is limited, I am eager to bring my enthusiasm, dedication, and foundational skills to this role. I have been currently serving as the Treasurer since April 2024 and have demonstrated strong organizational skills and attention to detail. I am deeply passionate about STN and I am motivated by the opportunity to support an organization that aligns with my values. While I may not have extensive experience in a financial role, I bring a fresh perspective, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn. I am eager to contribute my skills and energy to STN and to support its financial stability and growth.

Motivation: Running for the position of treasurer is driven by a deep commitment to ensuring financial transparency, accountability, and management of our society's resources. I am motivated by a desire to serve and contribute to the financial well-being of our organization, ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely and effectively to achieve our collective goals. Additionally, I aim to work with our board and STN members to develop innovative strategies to maximize our financial resources, support sustainable growth, and ensure that we are well-prepared for future endeavors.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees:

• TN Trauma Care Advisory Committee
• TN EMS Clinical Issues Committee-Board Member
• TN Trauma System Development Committee
• Trauma Center Association Of America (TCAA) Membership Services Committee
• Journal of Trauma Nursing-Reviewer
• American College of Surgeons Nurse Reviewer
• West Nashville Sports League- Secretary and Treasurer

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN:

• STN Member since 2013
• Society of Trauma Nurses Membership Engagement Committee- Jan 2018-April 2023
• Society of Trauma Nurses Director-at-Large April 2019-April 2024
• Society of Trauma Nurses Executive Committee April 2022-Present
• Society of Trauma Nurses Treasurer- April 2024-Present
• Society of Trauma Nurses Finance Committee- April 2024-Present
• Board Liaison to the Leadership Development Committee April 2023-Pressnt
• Society of Trauma Nurses OPTIMAL Instructor- April 2024-Present
• Society of Trauma Nurses OPTIMAL Committee- April 2024- Present

Carrie Chismarich, MA, BSN, RN, TNS, TCRN

Trauma Performance Improvement Coordinator, SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital

Responsibilities: I am one of the Trauma Performance Improvement Coordinators and the interim Trauma Research Coordinator at a Level 1 ACS Verified Trauma Center. We serve the greater St. Louis area and southern Illinois, and surrounding counties. We are also dual state designated in Missouri and Illinois.

Past Experience: I have been a nurse in the field of emergency, critical care, and trauma nursing for over 23 years. My clinical background in various emergency departments and trauma critical care units enriched my skills and knowledge in the field of trauma nursing. For the past 13 years, I have held several trauma program positions in various levels of designated and/or verified trauma centers. This includes the Injury Prevention Outreach Coordinator at a Level 1 ACS Verified Center and the Trauma Program Director at a state designated Level 2 trauma center. I am an experienced healthcare leader, with a strong focus on program development, healthcare operations, performance improvement, and trauma research and education. Currently I am one of the Performance Improvement Coordinators and the interim Research Coordinator at a Level 1 ACS Verified Trauma Center.

Statement of Intent: I am seeking a position on the Board of Directors for the Society of Trauma Nurses (STN). I am specifically interested in being considered for a Director-At-Large position.

Motivation: Having been involved with STN for over nine years, I have developed a strong connection with the mission, values and initiatives set forth by the organization. I am wholeheartedly committed to trauma nursing education and have past experience with committee positions related to education. Over the past several years, I have expanded my understanding of the vast array of initiatives STN has to offer. It is clear to me that the injured patient and trauma care team remains in the forefront of the great work produced by the organization. I too strive to ensure my focus remains connected to patient care, clinical outcomes, and a well-developed trauma team. My past volunteer activities demonstrate my commitment to the organization because I foresee a strong path in growth and remarkable direction within the organization. I feel strongly connected to the strategy and initiatives STN has set forth. I appreciate this opportunity to support the work in an expanded role and I aspire to contribute to the overall continued success of STN.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees:

• Missouri State Advisory Council
• Missouri State Advisory Council, Trauma Subcommittee
• Missouri Hospital Association, Time Critical Diagnosis (TCD) Committee
• Missouri Hospital Association, Trauma Workgroup
• Voting Member, Illinois Trauma Region 4 Trauma Committee

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN:

• 2015-present - STN TraumaCon Conference Planning committee member
• Vice Chair, Conference Planning committee: 2020-2022
• Chair Conference Planning Committee: 2022-2024
• Immediate Past Chair, Conference Planning Committee: 2024-2026
• 2017-present - STN, ATCN Committee
• Vice Chair, ATCN Committee: 2020-2021
• Chair, ATCN Committee 2021-2025
• Immediate Past Chair, ATCN: projected 2025-2027
• 2019-present - ATCN National Educator, member of ATCN Educator Subcommittee
• 2017-2020 - STN CEPU Committee Member, ATCN CEPU Nurse Planner

Cristiane Domingues, PhD, MSN, MBA, BSN

Manager, All Trauma

Responsibilities: I currently manage a trauma team that works in several hospitals in the city of São Paulo. I am also responsible for the Quality Program for patients treated by the team.

Past Experience: I have experience in Medical Education and Nursing Education. In addition, I coordinated the Trauma Training Programs of the American College of Surgeons in Brazil for almost ten years. I have experience providing assistance in both the Emergency Department and pre-hospital care.

Statement of Intent: As Director-at-Large I will be able to contribute to STN's mission and vision, providing a comprehensive view of other realities to ensure that we promote optimal and equitable trauma care to all people.

Motivation: Being part of the STN Board of Directors will allow me to reach a wider audience of nurses around the world, so that they have access to the resources offered by STN, in addition to the possibility of working very closely with the International Director to take STN beyond borders and ensure the best care for trauma patients around the world.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees:

• Panamerican Trauma Society - Nursing Committee Chair (2012-2013)
• Panamerican Trauma Society - Nursing Subcommittee Chair (2013-2017)
• Panamerican Trauma Society - Member of the Advisory Board (2014 - 2017)
• Panamerican Trauma Society - Nursing Committee Member (2012-current)
• Panamerican Trauma Society - Program Committee Member (2023-current)
• Brazilian Committee on Trauma (BCOT) - Second Secretary (2014-2017)
• Brazilian Committee on Trauma (BCOT) - First Secretary (2018)
• Brazilian Committee on Trauma (BCOT) - Quality Director (2018-2020)
• Brazilian Committee on Trauma (BCOT) - Treasurer (2020-2023)

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN:

• STN - International Director-at-Large (2013-2015)
• STN - ATCN Committee Member (2013-current)
• STN - International Committee (2017-current)

Brody Eick, MBA, BSN, RN, CCRN, CEN, TCRN

Director of Trauma Services, Eisenhower Health

Responsibilities: I am currently in the process of building and advancing a California state designated Level 4 trauma center to an American College of Surgeons verified and state designated Level 3-N with a vision of progressing to verification as an Adult and Pediatric Level 2. I have complete oversight of the program development and management including financial, education, performance improvement, registry, and injury prevention. This has also included collaborating with the C-suite on trauma medical director and trauma surgeon recruitment, interviewing, and onboarding.

Past Experience: I have spent my career, of almost 18 years, working in different areas of trauma. My clinical bedside work was primarily in trauma critical care and the emergency department in a very high-volume adult Level 1 trauma center. I moved into more leadership roles as House Nursing Supervisor and trauma education where I quickly found my passion for program management. I took some time to do travel nursing in different large trauma centers to experience how other programs worked and learn from diverse nurses and surgeons. This allowed me to have a much broader knowledge and overall understanding of trauma systems. In 2023, I was recruited to build a new trauma program from the ground up and that is where I currently am employed as the Director of Trauma Services.

Statement of Intent: I am excited to run for the position of director-at-large for the board of directors for the Society of Trauma Nurses.

Motivation: The Society of Trauma nurses has been my professional home for many years and has provided me with amazing opportunities for advancing my knowledge and career through networking and education. I am excited to be able to be a part of continuing the legacy of the incredible trauma nurses that have led this organization in the past and helping to advance and build the society into even more of an international leader in supporting our trauma community. We can do this by enhancing our opportunities for involvement and education for the bedside nurse while promoting career advancement and development to all of our members. We have an opportunity to continue to expand our membership body to include our domestic and international colleagues and be a part of standardizing trauma nursing across the board. We have the resources and experience within our membership to make changes that will continue to promote the highest quality of care and innovation with our trauma patients and keep fueling the excitement and passion that we feel for trauma.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees: I am currently serving as Director-At-Large for the STN Board of directors and am hoping to be able to continue in this role. I was the chair for the Membership Engagement committee and currently serve as the immediate past chair for this committee.

Outside of the STN, I am currently completing my first term as a member-at-large on the Board of Directors for the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). I was a part of the initiation of the TCRN exam and have been an item writer and currently sit on the Exam Construction and Review Committee for this certification. I am also on the Education Committee for the Trauma Managers Association of California where we are working to develop and standardize trauma system education across the state.

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN: I am currently serving as Director-At-Large for the STN Board of directors and am hoping to be able to continue in this role. I was the chair, and currently serve as the immediate past chair, for the Membership Engagement committee. I have lectured at the All Levels Trauma Care international conference in representing the STN as well as presenting at TraumaCon and I had the privilege of publishing my first peer reviewed article in the Journal of Trauma Nursing. I have helped develop and moderate multiple webinars and online panel discussions through the membership engagement committee and I was a part of the redesign and implementation of the revised mentorship program offered through the STN.

Kenyatta Hazlewood, MPH, BSN, BSHS, RN, NE-BC

Trauma Program Director, Howard University Hospital

Responsibilities: I am currently serving as the Trauma Services Director at a Level 1, Academic Trauma Center, in the heart of Washington, DC. I am responsible for developing, organizing, implementing, coordinating and evaluating functions of the interdisciplinary Trauma Service. In addition to clinical services, I am the liaison to the Executive leadership and Trauma services. I direct distinct teams, Trauma registry, Injury Prevention and Outreach, Trauma Social Work, Trauma Education and grant coordination. I am also responsible for the organization of services and systems necessary for the multidisciplinary approach to trauma care in the hospital. I maintain trauma certifications and am certified to direct national curriculums for trauma nurses and physicians. I am the Director the Trauma and Violence Center of Excellence and Project Change Grants.

Past Experience: I love the intersection of nursing and public health. In nursing, I’ve worked throughout the Trauma spectrum at two Level 1 and a Level 2 trauma center. In my early career I was an Emergency and Trauma bedside nurse. I was then hired as an Injury Prevention and Outreach Coordinator (the first at that hospital). I've worked as a Trauma Educator, Trauma Program Manager and now Trauma Services Director. In terms of my Public Health career, I've worked with the District of Columbia Department of Health on HIV and Children's Vaccine initiatives.

Statement of Intent: I am excited to apply for the board position, Director-at-Large I believe that a two-year appointment will enable me to make meaningful contributions to both the board and its members, particularly in advancing the field of trauma nursing.

I am motivated by the opportunity to enhance our impact on critical care nursing while continuing our legacy of training and supporting trauma nurses. I look forward to collaborating with fellow board members to drive initiatives that elevate our profession and improve outcomes for our patients.

Motivation: My motivation for running for a board position stems from my deep commitment to the Society of Trauma Nurses and my desire to serve in a more impactful capacity. Over the thirteen years as a member, I have actively engaged in various roles, including co-chair, member and liaison of committees, while proudly supporting STN as an enthusiastic advocate.

I’ve observed that many familiar faces attend our conferences year after year, and I believe it’s vital to rejuvenate our community and create an inclusive environment for new nurses, seasoned nurses and all other disciplines within Trauma. My goal is to foster engagement and innovation within STN, ensuring that we attract fresh perspectives while supporting our dedicated members. I am eager to collaborate with fellow board members to drive meaningful change that enhances the experience for all members and advances the field of trauma nursing.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees: I’ve had experience serving on several local, regional and national boards.

• Washington D.C.’s Trauma Injury Prevention Coordinators Collaborative (TIPCC)
• Research Advisory Board of – American Foundation for Firearm Injury Reduction in Medicine (AFFIRM)
• Co-Chair of the Washington D.C. - Violence Fatality Review Committee, of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner
• STN Liaison, American College of Surgeon, Committee on Trauma-Injury Prevention Committee
• Chair- STN –Injury Prevention Committee, Special Interest Group (SIG)
• American Hospital Association’s Age- Friendly Action Committee
• Washington D.C., Office on Aging
• Member, Scholarship Chair - Chi Eta Phi Sorority Inc. – Professional Nursing organization.
• Member, Sigma Thea Tau Inc.
• Advisor, U-Street Safety Committee
• Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) Gun Violence Prevention Committee

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN:

• STN member over 13 years, multiple conferences
• STN Board of Directors
• STN Injury Prevention - Special Interest Group (SIG) Chair and Co-Chair
• STN Liaison to the ACS –COT committee on Injury Prevention
• STN Trauma Program Manager focus groups for the standardized positon description
• STN Conference Planning Committee
• STN Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Committee
• STN Nominating Awards Committee
• Presented a poster at TraumaCon
• Liaison on STN Research Committee
• STN ATPM Operations Committee
• STN Committee Chairs

Andrea Light, MS, RN, EMT, CEN, TCRN

Trauma Program Manager, OhioHealth Pickerington Methodist Hospital

Responsibilities: Experienced TPM for a new Ohio provisional Level III-N trauma center at a brand-new hospital that opened 12/6/23. On track to become an ACS-verified trauma center by Spring/Summer 2026. Completed a successful ACS consultative review in June 2024. Have hired two full-time trauma registry professionals, one of which is a lead, as well as a full-time PI coordinator, and a part-time injury prevention coordinator. Stood up Trauma Peer Review Committee and systems/ops meetings within one month of opening hospital. Leading OhioHealth Trauma Network system project for ESO HDE implementation for four trauma centers. Working with lead trauma registry professional to implement new registry software by 1/1/25. Continuing to grow and mature Trauma PIPS program that is highly integrated with hospital quality.

Past Experience: I have been in my current role since June 2023. Prior to that, I worked at another health system for nearly 22 years. My clinical background is primarily ED, as well as some critical care and ambulatory care. While in the ED, I was a charge nurse and preceptor and chaired our engagement council. I was the first-ever Trauma PI Coordinator for our adult Level II trauma program and then was promoted to Trauma Program Manager a few years later. During that time, I worked collaboratively with leadership and key stakeholders to move our Level II trauma center from one hospital to another, which was a seamless "flip of a switch" on go-live day without a pause in services. After moving the trauma center, our trauma volumes doubled in about 18 months. We grew our program, adding registry professionals and Trauma APPs to achieve 24/7/265 APP coverage. I started our Stop the Bleed program and developed our nursing education framework to ensure our nurses were well-trained and prepared. I was promoted to Regional TPM, charged with growing our Level II trauma program to a Level I and started a new Level III at another hospital in the system. Unfortunately, due to COVID and other financial reasons, system leadership decided not to move forward with those projects.

Statement of Intent: I am seeking a Director-at-Large position and would be honored if chosen.

Motivation: I am looking for ways to continue to grow as a trauma leader. I have been a TPM for nearly 10 years and a nurse for 19. I enjoy being an expert in the field and resource to others. I have been a member of STN's Leadership Development Committee for the past few years and would like to become more involved with STN, helping to set the organization's direction and advancing the mission. I am serving and have served on multiple committees throughout my career and find it fulfilling to be a part of something bigger than me or the organization I work for. I enjoy networking with leaders from around the country and the world, learning from them, as well as sharing my experience and knowledge. I think it's vitally important that trauma nurses have an organization where they feel they belong and can make a difference for our profession. I'm excited for the opportunity to help lead that charge. My goal is to bring my experience and knowledge to the board and ensure we represent the diverse population of trauma nurses all over the world, meeting and exceeding their needs.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees:

• Current member of STN's Leadership Development Committee and developing the Business Proposal Writing course with two other committee members
• Current member of BCEN's Exam Construction Review Committee for the TCRN exam. Previous item writer for TCRN exam
• Current member of Ohio's State Trauma Committee, representing non-trauma centers until my center is verified
• Current board member of our regional trauma system's (COTS) Trauma Advisory Board/Clinical Trauma Committee
• Current chair of COTS Trauma Program Manager committee, which reports to the Trauma Advisory Board
• Current webmaster/board member for Ohio Society of Trauma Nurse Leaders (OSTNL)
• Current Grove City High School band booster member, serving as Chair of the medical team for all football games, contests, parades, trips, and band camp

I have also previously served on Ashland University's advisory board for the Women in Leadership program, as well as president and a few other officer positions for my local ENA chapter and serving as a delegate to two ENA general assemblies.

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN: In addition to serving on the Leadership Development Committee as stated above, I have also served as a mentor for a new TPM in Texas via STN, and was a Trauma Research mentee for a brief period of time as my facility was considering verifying as a Level I. I have been a member of STN most of my trauma leadership career, going to several conferences. I presented a poster at the 2018 conference. I took the STN Nurse Leadership Institute course early in my career. I have also taken several TOPIC and Optimal courses hosted by STN.

Todd Nickoles, MBA, BSN, RN, TCRN

Director, Trauma Services, Phoenix Children's

Responsibilities: As the Director of the Trauma Program, Children’s Surgery Program, and Injury Prevention Program at a prominent urban Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center, I collaborate closely with the Trauma Program Manager and Medical Director to manage both the clinical and operational aspects of the trauma program. I also oversee three state Level IV trauma centers in Arizona, as additional hospital locations of Phoenix Children's. In my role with the Injury Prevention Program, I support a variety of grant-funded and hospital-based initiatives aimed at enhancing child passenger safety, home safety, bicycle safety, suicide prevention, and drowning prevention. Additionally, I oversee a research team of five, guiding our investigator-initiated and multicenter research projects. Lastly, I lead the Level 1 Children’s Surgery Program and its staff to ensure surgical quality at Phoenix Children’s.

Past Experience: I began my nursing career 25 years ago in Michigan, transitioning from a background in construction. My journey started in the trauma bay as a nursing technician, followed by completing nursing school and working in the trauma intensive care unit. After approximately ten years of direct bedside clinical experience in both the trauma bay and the trauma ICU, I moved into the role of Pediatric Trauma Program Manager at a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Program, where I served for six years.

Subsequently, I joined Phoenix Children’s as the Trauma Program Manager, where I also began supporting the extensive Injury Prevention Program. Eventually, I advanced to the role of Director, overseeing the initial Level 1 Children’s Surgery verification. Throughout my career, I have facilitated six American College of Surgeons site visits across two hospital systems and two ACS programs.

During my leadership tenure, I have achieved several milestones, including earning TCRN board certification, obtaining a master’s degree in business administration, securing numerous committee and board appointments, participating in various nursing education and research work groups, planning conferences, publishing ten articles, and continuing my dedication to pediatric trauma care.

Statement of Intent: If selected, I would be deeply honored to serve as a Director-at-Large on the board of the Society of Trauma Nurses. Throughout my career, I have been a dedicated and active member of STN, benefiting immensely from its networking opportunities, educational resources, conferences, and professional development. I am eager for the chance to contribute to the society in a leadership role and give back to the organization and its members who have provided me with so much support and growth.

Motivation: My motivation for running for office is three-fold. Firstly, I would be honored to serve an organization that has significantly contributed to my personal and professional development. Secondly, I believe my professional experience would be a valuable asset to the leadership team of STN and its members. Lastly, I am eager to advance the mission and vision of the society, promoting optimal and equitable trauma care as the premier global nursing organization across the trauma continuum. My primary goal as a board member of STN would be to enhance the direct value of society membership for trauma nurses in every role.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees: I have served on various committees with numerous professional and regional organizations, including the Society of Trauma Nurses, Michigan Trauma Coalition, Arizona Trauma Association, Michigan Region 6 Advisory Council, professional standards review organizations, trauma education committees, the Michigan Trauma Designation Committee, the Arizona Central Healthcare Emergency Response Planning Committee, Prevent Child Abuse Arizona, the Western Pediatric Trauma Conference, the Southwest Trauma and Acute Care Symposium, and the ATOMAC Pediatric Research Network. I have held multiple terms as treasurer for both the Michigan Trauma Coalition and the Arizona Trauma Association, served as secretary for the Pediatric Trauma Society, and been a member at large on the boards of the Child Abuse Clinical Decision Support Consortium and the Western Pediatric Trauma Consortium.

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN: I have been actively involved with the Society of Trauma Nurses for over 20 years. During this time, I have attended and presented at numerous TraumaCon annual meetings. I have served as the chair of the STN Membership and Mentorship Committee and presented for the STN Leadership Institute. I have been an ATCN instructor since 2007 and currently chair the ATCN 9th Edition revision committee for the pediatric chapter. I am a member of the Pediatric Committee and chair the pediatric subcommittee for research and evidence-based practice. Additionally, I serve on the Continuing Education Planning Unit Committee as a nurse planner for various conferences and courses. I am also a member of the Journal of Trauma Nursing Editorial Board and have published in the Journal. Finally, I am part of the Pediatric Trauma Across the Care Continuum Course Operations Committee and was involved in the core development group for that course.

Maria Bautista Durand, MSN, FNP-C, CPNP

Nurse Practitioner, Children's Hospital Los Angeles

Responsibilities: I am a trauma nurse practitioner at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), working with a team of advanced practice providers and collaborating with various disciplines, including nurses, physicians, rehabilitation therapists, and social workers, to manage the care of injured children from multiple entry points into our hospital. Additionally, I serve as faculty at the University of California, Los Angeles, and Azusa Pacific University, where I teach in their advanced practice programs. I also act as a clinical preceptor for nurse practitioner students, providing them with clinical exposure to trauma patients.

Past Experience: Prior to becoming the trauma nurse practitioner at CHLA in 2015, I worked as a nurse practitioner at a pediatric orthopedic practice in Los Angeles, CA, where I managed orthopedic trauma in an outpatient setting. My nursing career began over 25 years ago at CHLA on a trauma unit, caring for injured children.

Statement of Intent: I intend to apply for the Clinical Director at Large position.

Motivation: My motivation for running for the Clinical Director at Large position stems from the positive experience I’ve had in my current role. As the board liaison for the Clinical Committee, Pediatric Steering Committee, and Advanced Practice Provider SIG, I’ve found the work incredibly rewarding. I have enjoyed getting to the know the STN members of these committees and the ability to communicate their needs to the board. During my term, the Clinical Committee has recently completed the Trauma Orientation Slides and have already started on another project. The Pediatric Steering Committee has expanded their committee and continue to work on pediatric trauma initiatives. My goals if re-elected: 1) Collaborate with the Clinical Committee to progress their ongoing projects and support clinical activities, including webinars, to fulfill the trauma educational needs of our members 2) Assist the Clinical Committee, Pediatric Steering Committee and the Advanced Practice Provider (APP) SIG to continue to bring professional growth to these committee and SIG groups that align with the organization's strategic plan. 3) Support the committee members to bring new ideas that align with the organization's strategic plan.

Past Experience on Governing Boards/Committees: I am the current Society of Trauma Nurses (STN) Clinical Director at Large, my term year 2023-2025. I was the chair of the STN Pediatric Steering Committee from 2019-2022. I am the team lead for the PTS Guidelines HUB: Pelvis and Retroperitoneum to coordinate efforts in developing evidence-based practice guidelines. I have been the lead for our hospital's Trauma Nurse's Committee since 2017. This committee meets monthly to discuss updates and address needs from the nursing units. The committee comprises hospital nurses from various departments who care for our trauma patients. I actively participate in our hospital’s Advanced Practice Committee, focusing on recruitment and retention, the clinical ladder, and clinical practice. These committees work to promote and support our specialty within the organization.

Past and Current Participation Activities with STN: My past activities with STN:

• Clinical Director at Large
• Chair of the Pediatric Trauma Steering Committee
• Co-chair of the Pediatric Trauma Steering Committee
• Member of the PTACC Operations Committee
• PTACC faculty
• Teaching and assisting with propagation of PTACC courses
• Assisted with content development for PTACC course