Dear dedicated council members,
As 2026 begins, I am honored to serve as President of the New York State Emergency Nurses Association (NYSENA) for the coming year! The nearly 40 years I have spent in emergency nursing have been among the most rewarding of my career. I look forward to drawing on these experiences to support you and drive initiatives that continue to advance emergency care across New York State.
Over the years, my involvement in ENA has continually re-energized my passion for Emergency Nursing. My hope is that NYSENA will do the same for you—helping you grow, connect, and find renewed purpose in this incredible profession.
Your NYSENA team has several exciting initiatives on the horizon aimed at improving communication, expanding educational opportunities, and developing and supporting legislation that impacts emergency nursing practice. Our success depends on your voice and your involvement! NYSENA offers many committee opportunities where you can share your perspective, make a difference, and fill your professional cup at the same time. I encourage you to follow your passion and get involved.
In November 2025, NYSENA proudly hosted the largest virtual Solheim CEN Review class ever, with more than 640 nurses in attendance! Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be another vibrant year. You can look forward to a robust schedule of monthly educational offerings, our annual Setting the Pace conference, General Assembly, and Emergency Nursing 2026. We also plan to launch a series of virtual half-day seminars focused on topics such as pediatric emergency care, emergency preparedness, mentoring, and transitioning from bedside nurse to nurse leader. We hope these sessions will inspire the creation of new special interest groups within our community.
Be sure to visit the NYSENA website and follow our social media platforms for the latest updates and opportunities to participate. And most importantly—let us know what interests you!
This past year, we mourned the loss of several esteemed past ENA presidents : Marilyn Rice, Margaret “Peggy” McMahon, and Nancy Stephens-Donatelli. These pioneers embodied the spirit of our profession and set standards we still uphold today. We honor their legacy by continuing to meet the challenges of emergency care with innovation, compassion, and a commitment to excellence.
I am truly looking forward to learning from you, working alongside you, and growing together throughout the coming year. Please feel free to reach out to me anytime via email or phone—I welcome your ideas, feedback, and involvement.
Together, let’s make 2026 a year of connection, growth, and continued excellence in Emergency Nursing!
With appreciation for all that you do,
Eileen Breckenridge, RN
Your 2026 NYSENA President
