The Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program (IONRP) was proud to exhibit at the 97th Iowa Hospital Association (IHA) Annual Meeting, held October 6-7, 2026, at the Community Choice Convention Center in Des Moines.
Representing IONRP, Nicole Weathers, DNP, RN, NPD-BC, Director of the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program, connected with healthcare leaders from across Iowa during the two-day event. The annual meeting brought together hospital executives, nursing leaders, educators, and healthcare professionals to explore innovative approaches to workforce development, quality improvement, fiscal management, leadership, and the future of healthcare in Iowa.
Exhibiting alongside colleagues from the University of Iowa College of Nursing Admissions & Enrollment, Simulation in Motion-Iowa (SIM-IA), and the University of Iowa Office of Innovation's Iowa Nurse Innovators initiative, Weathers shared how the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program supports healthcare organizations in strengthening transition-to-practice programs and improving the experience of newly licensed nurses. The collaborative exhibit highlighted the University of Iowa's commitment to advancing healthcare workforce development, innovation, education, and practice across the state.
Throughout the conference, Weathers engaged with attendees on topics including nurse retention, transition-to-practice support, preceptor development, and strategies for helping newly licensed nurses gain confidence and competence as they enter the profession. These conversations provided valuable opportunities to share best practices, learn from healthcare leaders, and discuss solutions to workforce challenges facing organizations across Iowa.
"The IHA Annual Meeting provides a valuable opportunity to connect with healthcare leaders from across the state and learn about the challenges and successes organizations are experiencing," said Weathers. "Those conversations help us continue to evolve our programs and resources to meet the needs of nurses and healthcare facilities."
Participation in the IHA Annual Meeting reflects IONRP's ongoing commitment to supporting healthcare organizations, strengthening the nursing workforce, and fostering successful transitions to practice for newly licensed nurses. Events such as the IHA Annual Meeting create important opportunities for collaboration and dialogue as healthcare leaders work together to shape the future of healthcare in Iowa.