A Sheridan Memorial Hospital nurse has taken an active role in shaping the future of the nursing profession — advocating for greater inclusion of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) at the national level.
Lori Williams, LPN, of Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Primary Care clinic, recently participated in discussions with the American Nurses Association (ANA), supporting efforts to expand membership eligibility to include LPNs and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs).
Currently, ANA membership is limited to registered nurses, as outlined in its bylaws. While the organization recognizes the contributions of LPNs and LVNs, it has not yet expanded membership to include them. Through her involvement, Williams is helping bring forward the perspective of experienced LPNs and advocating for a more inclusive professional structure.
“Being part of the committee with the American Nurses Association to support the inclusion of LPNs/LVNs as members is truly meaningful to me, both professionally and personally,” Williams said. “As an LPN with 32 years of experience, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication, skill and compassion that LPNs and LVNs bring to patient care every single day.”
The ANA’s LPN/LVN Ad-Hoc Committee is actively evaluating what expanded membership could look like — including governance, representation, dues structures and the overall impact on the organization. The group is expected to bring forward recommendations later this year.
For Williams, the work is about more than policy — it is about recognition and strengthening the profession as a whole.
“For so long, LPNs and LVNs have played a vital role in the healthcare system, often serving on the front lines and forming deep, lasting connections with patients and their families,” she said. “To now have a voice in shaping a more inclusive future within a national professional organization is both an honor and a milestone.”
Williams’ background informs her advocacy for team-based care and reinforces her belief that recognizing all members of the care team leads to better outcomes for patients.
“Being part of this process affirms that our contributions matter — that our experience, perspective and commitment to care are recognized and valued,” she said. “It gives me great hope for the future of nursing as a whole, where unity across all levels of nursing strengthens our profession and improves the care we provide.”
Williams’ involvement reflects a broader commitment within Sheridan Memorial Hospital to support caregivers at every level and to ensure their voices are part of conversations shaping the future of healthcare.