Improving the health of Virginia's communities
VNF is committed to improving the health of Virginia's communities by developing an educated and diverse nursing workforce through leadership development, research, and innovation.
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Diversity, Equity & Inclusivity
We're committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusivity within nursing and the communities we serve.
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Gala
Learn more about VNF's annual gala including the event program, award recipients, and ticket prices.
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'Nurses Change Lives' License Plate
Even more exciting, the $15 VNF receives from each plate fee supports our scholarships and nursing education initiatives. Plates are on sale now at the DMV’s website! The cost is $25 for regular plates or $35 for personalized plates.
Areas of Impact
Nurse Leadership Development
The Nurse Leadership Academy (NLA) is VNF's entry-level leadership development program, a nine month program intended for new and emerging nurse leaders across all healthcare settings.
The Next Level Leadership program is VNF's newest senior-level leadership development program, designed to help nurse leaders advance their potential and thrive as intentional leaders. Our first cohort will graduate this November. Don't miss out - enrollment is now open!
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Mental Health Initiatives
During these times, mental health distress among our communities as well as our healthcare professionals has escalated exponentially.
Nurse and K-12 student depression as well as suicides have increased at an alarming rate as a result of pandemic-related trauma.
Maternal despair has also risen. It’s imperative that we continue our work to address the needs of these and other high-risk groups.
That's why VNF is launching the 2025 Innovation Awards to advance nurses' mental health and wellbeing
Learn moreWhat People are Saying
"The mission of the Virginia Nurses Foundation to “improve the health of Virginia’s communities by developing an educated and diverse nursing workforce through leadership development, research and innovation” is taken very seriously by a very talented and engaged board and is epitomized by the willingness to take on the challenges of mental health for the profession working with in the community and schools. VNF has also recognized the importance to increase the understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion of all nurses in the workforce. VNF is positioned to meet its mission with strength, creativity, excellence and dedication."
- Terris Kennedy, PhD, RN
VNF Past President
"VNF has been a wonderful resource for me as I start my nursing career. I am so excited to get involved with a mental health round table and continue learning this year at the VNF/VNA fall conference!"
- Makayla Reynolds, BSN, RN
Carilion Clinic
"It gives me great pleasure to serve on the Virginia Nurses Foundation Board of Trustees. As the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) ambassador and chair of the VNF DEI Council I have an opportunity to partner with a diverse group of nursing leaders to promote equity and inclusivity within the nursing profession. Also as a VNF board member I am positioned to advance equity and health equity to those we serve individually and in the community which aligns with the National Academy of Medicine’s Future of Nursing 2020-2030: Charting a Path to Achieve Health Equity report."
- Vivienne McDaniel, DNP, RN,
Inaugural Virginia Nurses Association and Foundation Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council Chair and Ambassador
"Especially during COVID, the stresses on nurses have multiplied and the VNF has provided me with the opportunity to advocate for my nurse colleagues by promoting mental health initiatives, pushing for community support through donations and awareness campaigns, and recognizing leaders. The VNF has provided a platform for me to educate myself and work to address systemic issues within the nursing community. Hopefully, together we can provide a strong network of resources and assistance to Virginia’s nurses."
- Dipti Ramnarain
VNF Board of Trustees - Board Advisor
"I have been involved with VNF for over 20 years associated with my work as a VNA board member. The most rewarding aspects of VNF is the support for scholarships to new graduates, leadership development and most recently expansion of mental health initiatives for everyone in the commonwealth. I am a strong supporter of VNF."
- Richardean Benjamin, PhD, MPH, PMHNP-BC, ANEF, FAAN
VNA Past President
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