Description/Overview: When first beginning its partnership programs, the American International Health Alliance identified a critical need to advance the nursing profession worldwide and recognized that in many nations, particularly those in Central and Eastern Europe, nurses were seriously undervalued and underutilized. This marginalization of the role of nurses was not only demoralizing—and discouraged many strong candidates from entering the field—it also resulted in entire healthcare systems functioning at substandard levels. Thus, time and resources were devoted to strengthening the nursing profession based on the belief that a nation’s entire healthcare system could be strengthened and public health outcomes improved by committing to this path. From nursing resource centers to association development, change evolved. The most striking example of change came as a result of the International Nursing Leadership Institute, a year-long program aimed at developing a cadre of nurse leaders. This new model, and this unique way of thinking, transformed the profession and global health. Our speakers focus on the process and outcomes.

Learner Objective #1: Describe the role of INLI in setting the stage for nursing transformation in Eurasia.

Learner Objective #2: Discuss outcomes related to roles and responsibilities of former NIS/CEE nurses within their organizations, professional societies and academia.