"Gamma-O-Rama: Bridging the Gap between the College and the Medical Center"

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Audrey Von Bergen, BSN
Department of Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL

Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to identify key factors for developing a new, successful and beneficial program for members.

Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to recognize examples of programs and describe the method used for arranging a monthly program.

Gamma-O-Rama (GOR) is a monthly educational event created by Gamma Phi, a chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI). The GOR programs feature nurses and students who are involved in activities that reflect the STTI pillars. The goal of GOR is to highlight member knowledge and activities, as well as to network with colleagues. An unexpected benefit is the increased awareness and visibility of the chapter within the medical center. As a result of GOR, Gamma Phi chapter is readily identified by members and non-members alike.

Effective mentorship and support from the Gamma Phi Board Members for the leadership interns in Gamma Phi lead to the independent planning and execution of GOR by the Interns.

Consistency, communication and reliability are key factors in the success of GOR. Reservations for the room are confirmed at least a year in advance to enable a consistent location that is easily accessible by the College of Nursing, the Medical Center and outside guests. Presenters are formally invited by e-mail and follow-up is then done personally. CEU's are obtained prior to each presentation. All nursing personnel in the College and Medical Center receive these e-mails and are invited.

Speakers are chosen primarily through recommendations from the Gamma Phi Board Members or past presenters. However, it is not limited and invitations have been accepted by outside speakers and those recommended by nursing staff in the medical center. Collaboration is a cornerstone of Rush and Gamma Phi. Examples include nursing faculty from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a case manager from the Illinois Professionals Health Program. Topics vary from Nursing Case Management for Previously Homeless Women, Nursing in the MilitaryNursing and Substance Use Disorder and a plethora of other insightful and educational topics. Beginning of 2012, Gamma-O-Rama has introduced a series titled: The Impact of Service and Academic Faculty Practice in Community Partnerships. The goal of GOR is to highlight the achievements and advancements of nursing.

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