2025 Aspire Convention |  April 29 – May 2, 2025 | Las Vegas, NV

Be a Star

The purpose of ANPD's annual Star Search competition is to encourage aspiring speakers to compete for an opportunity to present a concurrent session at the next annual Aspire convention. Star Search is a great opportunity for novice speakers to develop their presentation skills!

Here's how the competition works:

• Four submitted abstracts from the call for Star Search participants will be selected by ANPD’s Convention Content Planning Committee (CPC) to participate in Star Search during the 2025 Aspire Convention.
• Each participant has 15 minutes total to give a brief presentation that is judged by members of the CPC and the audience.
• The CPC score constitutes 75% of the total score and the audience score constitutes 25% of the total.
• The participant who receives the highest score is invited to present a 60-minute concurrent session at the 2026 Aspire Convention in Louisville, KY and receives one complimentary convention registration.

2025 Star Search Participants

*Subject to change

Integrating Simulation Technology into E-Learning for High-Risk Skills

• Joy Olczak, DNP, RN, CHSE, CCRN, NPD-BC

This interactive session will explore how to integrate simulation technology with learning management platforms to address low-volume, high-risk clinical skills. Learn how an asynchronous simulation-based learning approach can close practice gaps and prepare nurses to respond confidently to critical clinical scenarios.

Masterpiece in the Making - Enhancing Learning Retention

• Heather Smith, MSN, RN

A loving heart is the beginning of all knowledge.' An impactful PowerPoint presentation will be used while incorporating a hands-on activity. Attendees will enjoy creating their masterpiece of knowledge, existing and new while engaging with their peers; utilization of a QR code will assess knowledge enhancement and retention.

Implementing a Supplemental Critical Thinking Session with Newly Licensed Nurses

• Robin Hackett, MSN, RN, NPD-BC

Presentation will include a study overview, case study progression and implementation of the assessment component via audience participation. The presentation will conclude with an opportunity for questions and answers.

Empowering Unlicensed Staff: Evidence-Based Frameworks to Enhance Patient Safety

• Deatra Josiah, MSN, MSN-Ed, APRN, MEDSURG-BC, OCN, AGPCNP-BC

This session explores the Clinical Application of Resources for Essential Skills (CARES), an evidence-based framework designed to enhance competencies among unlicensed assistive personnel. Attendees will engage in interactive strategies to address key patient safety concerns, standardize training, and improve workforce outcomes.