I know back in February I wrote about nursing being named the most trusted profession for the 22nd year in Gallup’s “Most Honest and Ethical Professions Survey.” Then in June I wrote about partnerships and had a chance to extoll NIHD’s industry, academic and association partner relationships. I have also mentioned in the past that I always read the executive/editors’ columns in my professional journals to gain a preview of the articles that follow as well as some ideas for my own obligatory monthly newsletter message.
So those three ideas came together when I recently read a piece by Deborah Bowen, President of the American College of Healthcare Executives entitled “Recommitting to Our Mission.” (Healthcare Executive Jan/Feb 2024.) She had some interesting things to say on a variety of related topics but what resonated the most was her mention of ACHE as a “trusted partner.” It caught my attention because that was always my concept of my relationship with NIHD; a unique characterization different than how I felt about my other professional memberships. Bowen spoke about an organization’s responsibility to commitment, being true to the mission, and following through on expectations. However, what resonated the most in her message were these words; “As you take inventory of what you have achieved and what you hope to become this year, know that we are there beside you and support you regardless of your role, title, or position.” She took the words right out of my mouth!
I believe such is the sentiment of what separates the value of NIHD from other member organizations. As your trusted partner, individually and collectively, you can rely on us to be honest, dependable, and reliable. You can consider us to be an extension of your team, willing to help you achieve your goals by bringing expertism to areas where you may lack knowledge or experience. As a NIHD member you have gained an additional 200+ close “co-workers” in the same specialty who can assist you in your challenges and help you celebrate your successes. All of us are genuinely interested in you and your work and are there as a willing resource to support you in all aspects of your needs. I hope you feel that emotional connection through the year by posting on our forum, reaching out for some advice or information, or simply attending our webinars. However, that feeling of trust and support among us was never felt so strong as it was earlier this month when some of us were together at HCD Conference + Expo. It included the sincere gratitude from our scholarship recipients to be able to attend through our generosity. It was evident in the swell of pride as we awarded the first Daisy honoree to a nurse in design. Our friendship was felt when we hung-out together at the NIHD booth. And it was palpable whenever any of us presented, with fellow NIHD members in the audience literally cheering us on.
Even before serving on the board, I would describe NIHD as my tribe, my club, my circle of friends in the field. I realize now I was describing my trusted partner. So, as your trusted partner, let us evolve and grow together in this amazing field of healthcare design where we believe we can shape the future of healthcare design though engaging and raising the clinical voice. I’m glad we have each other’s back.
