As the saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun. Reaching the 25-year anniversary mark is definitely something worth celebrating, and AAPACN is celebrating all year long!
AAPACN’s silver anniversary marks a quarter of a century of success, growth, and resilience. AAPACN and its legacy organizations have played a pivotal role in shaping post-acute care through the establishment of standard-setting certification programs and by providing a voice on complex regulatory issues. AAPACN has experienced remarkable growth, embraced constant change, and, above all, has had the honor of supporting and engaging with its dedicated members.
Where did it all begin? AAPACN traces its roots back to 1999 when Diane Carter, RN, MSN, FAAN, established the American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordination (AANAC). As the Minimum Data Set (MDS) roll out began, Diane identified a niche for providing education and assistance to nurses utilizing this assessment tool. AANAC pioneered a web-based community for support and collaborative learning, defining the role of nurse assessment coordinators (NACs) and introducing the industry-standard RAC-CT® (Resident Assessment Coordinator-Certified) education and certification program the subsequent year. Initially offered as a certificate program, it evolved into a formal certification in 2007. 25 years later, AAPACN has grown to more than 19,000 RNs, LPNs/LVNs, administrators, therapists, and other interdisciplinary team members who confidently lead the delivery of quality care in skilled nursing facilities.
How is AAPACN marking this milestone? Our year-long celebration kicked off in person at the AAPACN 2024 conference where attendees were invited to join in a celebratory Wednesday evening opening reception by shining bright in silver or white attire. Attendees were also encouraged to contribute to an activity wall, marking the year they became an AAPACN member or achieved AAPACN certification on a large timeline display.
During the opening session of the conference, Tracey Moorhead, AAPACN CEO and President, underscored the importance of AAPACN’s 25th anniversary and took the opportunity to acknowledge and honor members and volunteer leaders who have been actively engaged for 25 years or more.
How can you join in the celebration?
- Visit AAPACN’s memory lane wall, a testament to how AAPACN members have been pivotal in shaping the organization’s success and legacy. If you have cherished memories of your own, we invite you to share them with us!
- Reminisce about AAPACN’s journey by following AAPACN on social media and browsing through the “Throwback Thursday” photos, reliving memorable moments from AAPACN’s past.
- Check out the 25th anniversary webpage, showcasing pivotal moments in AAPACN’s history as well as fun AAPACN trivia.
We couldn’t have done it without you. Here’s to the next 25 years!