I can't believe that it's almost time for another convention and my term as the Dermatology Nurses' Association (DNA) President is almost over! It has been an honor and privilege to have served the DNA in this capacity and to get to know the amazing people who volunteer and give so much of themselves to this organization. At last year's convention, I invited attendees to look around the DNA and explore the various opportunities available to our membership. At the 43rd annual convention that will take place in San Diego, CA, on March 6–9, 2024, the agenda will, hopefully, encourage attendees to explore where they are today so that they can contribute more and appreciate where they've been.

The theme for this convention is “Exceeding the Vision.” With that in mind, the offerings are focused on propelling our vision forward to advance accessibility and to develop and learn the skills of current and future leaders in the dermatology nursing community. Our annual conference brings together members of the DNA community to share information and resources. Having a vision is useless if it can't be communicated and executed in a manner where people want to embrace the idea and be part of the process.

Building and nurturing relationships, meeting and listening to experts to better educate oneself about new and innovative therapies, and staying up to date on all the latest trends can be one of the most valuable career assets developed during the meeting. To come up with new ways of thinking, one often needs a new perspective. What better way to learn than to listen to speakers who are tackling similar challenges to the ones you face? I also think the best parts of convention are in the casual conversations with other attendees, which may be enlightening as well.

I think the Program Planning Committee has crafted an exciting agenda that will highlight the various opportunities and developments in the dermatology world. I'm really excited about the keynote speaker's offering about the progression of dermatology treatments and the role of the nurse in their implementation. The Nurse Practioner and general sessions will be diverse and thought provoking, and the three workshops will be dynamic and interactive.

We are also preparing to address what will surely be some struggles to keep our organization current and flourishing. With the theme in mind, I would like to encourage you to broaden your understanding of what the DNA's mission is as well as thinking about the future with imagination and vision. As organizations grow, the vision has to grow as well. We each need to find our own way to contribute as strengthening the DNA community will also help you grow. I'm challenging each of you to set a goal this coming year, whether it's becoming more active in the advocacy platform, becoming a peer reviewer, or becoming a co-chair of a committee. Imagine what lies ahead for you; think a little boldly, what will you be able to do that you can't do yet? My hope for all of you is to remain engaged and motivated to initiate projects as well as develop ideas to bring out the best in our organization as you are the backbone of the DNA.

Nancy Smail
Nancy Smail, RN, Buffalo Medical Group, Williamsville, NY