The Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program Director, Nicole Weathers, DNP, RN, NPD-BC, recently participated in the National Rural Health Association’s (NRHA) 37th Rural Health Policy Institute, held February 10–12, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

This annual gathering brings together hundreds of rural health leaders, clinicians, educators, and advocates from across the country to strengthen the collective voice of rural communities on Capitol Hill. As national attention to rural health issues continues to grow, this year’s institute emphasized the urgent need for sustained advocacy and innovative policy solutions.

Throughout the three-day event, attendees engaged directly with elected officials, federal agency leaders, and rural health experts to explore immediate and long-term priorities for rural populations. Sessions highlighted strategies for revitalizing rural communities, elevating data-driven advocacy, and ensuring policymakers understand the unique challenges rural providers face.

Speakers from organizations such as the CDC underscored the importance of keeping rural communities at the forefront of national health initiatives. As Diane Hall, Director of the CDC Office of Rural Health, noted during the institute:

“We work across CDC to make sure, in every corner of our office, that rural is not an afterthought… We are the ones saying across the country, ‘Don’t forget about rural.’”

Participants, representing nearly every state, also spent dedicated time meeting with their Congressional delegations. Advocates shared community stories, workforce needs, and meaningful data to support policy action to strengthen access, improve outcomes, and ensure sustainability for rural health systems.

Nicole represented Iowa’s rural nursing workforce, bringing forward the experiences and needs of nurse clinicians, educators, leaders, and clinical partners across the state.

“Returning to the Policy Institute for the 2nd year reminded me how important it is for Iowa’s rural nursing voice to be part of the conversation. The discussions about technology, workforce needs, and payment reform connect directly to what nurses and rural hospitals are navigating every day. I was grateful to join the Iowa group as we shared real stories and challenges with our congressional delegation. It reinforced that what we’re doing in rural Iowa matters, and that our voice is needed in shaping the policies that affect us.”

NRHA emphasized that while federal organizations and associations work daily to elevate rural health, the momentum relies on advocates continuing to share their stories. This year’s theme, “Embrace momentum. Revitalize rural. Reshape rural health,” called attendees to amplify that work back home in their communities.

IONRP remains committed to supporting rural nurses and care teams, state and nationwide. Nicole’s participation in the Policy Institute strengthens that mission and reinforces the University of Iowa College of Nursing’s dedication to advancing rural health policy, workforce development, and the future of nursing practice.

For more information about the NRHA Rural Health Policy Institute and ongoing advocacy efforts, visit the National Rural Health Association website.