RNAO’s 101st AGM: Building on our legacy, powering the future

More than 600 members, nursing students, partners and guests gathered May 28-29 for RNAO’s 101st Annual General Meeting (AGM), united by the theme Building on our legacy: Nurses powering the future.

Day one of the AGM opened with inspiring ceremonies and a procession led by the Tibetan Canadian Culture Centre, honouring Then-President NP Lhamo Dolkar – the first Tibetan nurse serving as president of RNAO. We also received meaningful video greetings from the International Council of Nurses President Dr. José Luis Cobos Serrano, Sigma President Prof. Liz Westcott, and remarks from representatives from all four political parties at Queen’s Park: Minister of Long-Term Care Natalia Kusendova-Bashta (video), and in-person we enjoyed the company and remarks from John Fraser Interim Leader of the Ontario Liberal Party and MPP for Ottawa South, Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Health John Jordan, and Ontario NDP health critic Dr. Robin Lennox. Dr. Nathalie Boudreau, director of the Nursing and Health Professionals Branch at the Ministry of Health, joined the opening ceremonies as RNAO celebrated the designation of 18 new Best Practice Spotlight Organizations® (BPSO®).

Day two focused on governance, advocacy and member engagement. Highlights included the CEO report, recognition of Dr. Doris Grinspun’s 30 years of transformative leadership at RNAO, Members’ Voices presentations from chapters, regions and interest groups, and discussion of  member-submitted resolutions addressing issues such as Indigenous health, mental health, housing, RN prescribing, climate action and nursing education. Members also welcomed RNAO’s 2026-2027 board of directors and celebrated the transition of presidency from NP Lhamo Dolkar to Sue LeBeau.

Throughout the AGM, one message remained clear: RNs and NPs lead robust change, advance evidence-informed practice and shape a healthier, more equitable future for all. Together, we ignite the passion and unwavering commitment of RNAO’s nursing student members currently shaping the profession.

Read and share the detailed Day 1 and Day 2 AGM recaps on X, and watch the full AGM video recap on the AGM webpage.