A LETTER FROM NJLN'S PRESIDENT

Linda Cuoco, RN, MSA, CNAA, BC

We are excited to be able to bring to you our sixth New Jersey Nursing Convention, as co-hosts with New Jersey State Nurses Association. We have demonstrated how nursing organizations can join collective talent, creativity and energy to bring to our New Jersey nurses one of the finest learning and networking opportunities during the year. Through our collective forces, we believe, we can offer models for other states to follow, which allows nursing to come together as one, strengthening our resolve for the promotion of our nursing profession.

This year's convention is no exception, our agenda is packed with very exciting and leading edge information. We have many opportunities throughout this year's convention to network with colleagues, board members, and guest speakers. Don't forget to sign up for the New Jersey League for Nursing's pre-convention program titled. "EAST MEETS WEST, ARE YOU READY? MAKING SENSE OF COMPLIMENTARY/INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE IN THE WORLD OF MODERN MEDICINE." We have been asked by prior convention attendees for this topic, and are pleased to bring it to you this year. Be sure to sign up early, since there is limited seating available. You do not want to miss these exciting presentations on Acupuncture/Herbal Medicine, Reiki Therapy, Guided Imagery/Hypnosis and Therapeutic Touch.

NJLN celebrated its annual Autumn Gala this past November, where over three hundred guests honored eight colleagues for their outstanding contributions in nursing. We were also very honored to celebrate our Corporate Award recipient, and long-standing supporter of NJLN and Nursing, Johnson & Johnson. Mr. David Swearingen, Vice President Communications, Medical Devices & Diagnostics, Johnson & Johnson, accepted the award. In addition, the audience was given a unique opportunity to a premier viewing of Johnson & Johnson's latest media campaign focusing on patient's stories about nursing's impact on their lives. It was very moving and of course, inspirational. Be sure to register for the Convention luncheon on April 3rd where "The Campaign for Nursing's Future" will be the program topic.

As President of the New Jersey League for Nursing, along with your outstanding Board of Directors and Executive Director, I invite you to enjoy the 2003 New Jersey Nursing Convention. Along with your colleagues and friends, we look forward to seeing you in Atlantic City, April 2-4, 2003, enjoying the camaraderie of nursing, advancement of education and having fun.