July 2, 2026
Nurse leaders from across the Pacific Northwest met with elected officials and focused on innovations and challenges facing nursing staff.
Jefferson Healthcare hosted the Rural Nursing Leadership Symposium at the Northwest Maritime Center on June 25 and 26. The event attracted over 90 nurses in leadership positions from across the Pacific Northwest for training sessions and to build a unified voice in advocating for rural healthcare in Washington State. Keynote speakers included Karma Bass, MPH, a national healthcare strategist and executive coach; Hilary Whittington, EMBA, President of MultiCare’s Heart Institute and Founder of the Institute for Healthcare Finance; and Stephanie Staples, author and wellness expert.
Nurse leaders also met with elected officials to discuss their role in advocating for policy changes that support both nursing staff and patients. Nurses shared concerns and ideas with Senators Mike Chapman (24th Legislative District) and Ron Muzzall (10th Legislative District), and Representative Adam Bernbaum (24th Legislative District).
“Rural nurses are the backbone of healthcare in small communities, often serving as leaders, problem-solvers, and advocates,” said Jefferson Healthcare CNO Tina Toner.
