As we start the year 2026, I am honored to be taking on a new role as the President of the Southern California Chapter of the American Nursing Informatics Association. As a dedicated member of ANIA, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact our chapter has on advancing nursing informatics within our region. My journey into nursing informatics was driven by a passion for leveraging technology to enhance patient care, empower nurses, and optimize healthcare systems. My experience as the Vice President for the past two years has provided me with a robust understanding of leading diverse teams, managing projects, and achieving strategic objectives. We have successfully increased membership in our chapter as well as created two successful annual conferences post-COVID restrictions. We have also hosted free CEU events virtually and in conjunction with the San Diego chapter at local wineries. I understand the current challenges and opportunities facing nursing informaticists in Southern California, from system integration complexities to the imperative of data-driven care. I envision expanding our educational offerings, perhaps through specialized workshops, certification prep programs, or collaborative events with local academic institutions, to ensure our members remain at the forefront of informatics practice. I aim to strengthen our chapter's voice in advocating for the vital role of nursing informaticists within Southern California's healthcare landscape, collaborating with stakeholders to shape policy and promote best practices. I look forward to hearing from many of you if you have any ideas on how we can make this chapter bigger and better. Here's to a successful 2026!
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Melanie Sorenson, DNPc, MSN, RN, NI-BC
Clinical Informatics Nurse Specialist
Dignity Health- Commonspirit
San Bernardino, CA
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