LaTonya Holman, MSN, MSHA, RN, CCM
I had the incredible opportunity to attend the AACN Student Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., a privilege I enjoyed as a Jonas Scholar. The summit was a transformative experience that combined firsthand advocacy with direct engagement with policymakers. During my time in D.C., I actively advocated for Title VIII of the Public Health Service Act, which seeks $530 million in funding to support nursing workforce development, including education, practice, and research initiatives critical to addressing the nursing shortage and improving healthcare outcomes (Patton et al., 2022). Additionally, I championed the PRECEPT Nurses Act (H.R. 392/S.131), which proposes a $2,000 tax credit for preceptors who dedicate two hundred or more hours to mentoring nursing students or new nurses in Health Professional Shortage Areas (AACN, 2025). Recognizing the importance of research, I also emphasized the need for sustained funding for the National Institute of Nursing Research, which supports evidence-based advancements in nursing science and practice.
While I did not meet directly with senators or members of the U.S. Congress, I ensured their staffers understood our priorities and urged them to join the Nursing Caucus to further advocate for nursing-related legislation. Collaborating with nurses from all 50 states was inspiring as we united to amplify our collective voice and advance the nursing profession. This experience reinforced my commitment to nursing excellence and advocacy, motivating me to continue pursuing initiatives that promote sustainable improvements in healthcare. As a Prairie View A&M Jonas Scholar, I am deeply grateful for this unforgettable opportunity.
Prairie View A&M University DNP Candidate-LaTonya Holman, MSN, MSHA, RN, CCM