Sarah Brooks, M.Ed. Clinical Counseling

Many nurses struggle not because they lack capability, but because they hesitate to advocate for themselves, pursue leadership opportunities, or believe they are ready for the next step. In this empowering panel discussion, leaders from nursing associations, professional organizations, and nurses serving on boards will explore the confidence barriers they see across the profession and share how advocacy, mentorship, leadership involvement, and professional engagement can help nurses strengthen their voice and expand their impact. Through candid stories of career growth, leadership journeys, and lessons learned, panelists will discuss professional presence, speaking up in influential spaces, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why nurses belong at decision-making tables. Attendees will leave encouraged to take a more active role in shaping not only their own careers, but the future of the profession itself.