Kenly Nurse Among Leadership Academy Graduates Honored By NCNA

CONCORD, N.C. – A Kenly nurse was among those recently recognized during the North Carolina Nurses Association’s 119th Annual Convention held in Concord.

Jamie Bunn of Kenly was named a member of the NCNA’s 2026 Leadership Academy cohort.

The annual convention drew more than 650 registrants, which was a record attendance.

The event included continuing education, professional development, awards and recognition of the latest Leadership Academy class.

This year’s statewide membership forum focused on nurse mental health and well-being and ways to create healthier workplace cultures amid ongoing workforce challenges.

“We are seeing a great amount of enthusiasm from nurses demanding we have a say in how the profession evolves,” NCNA President Bonnie Davis Meadows said. “Nurses are facing challenges from a variety of directions, and we do not intend to passively allow healthcare to change without our input.”

Bunn was one of nine nurses named to the 2026 Leadership Academy cohort.

Other participants were Karen Amen of Mebane, Nicholas Biondo of Apex, Angela Cozart of Creedmoor, Jennifer Easterling of Durham, Drew Flammia of Raleigh, Bethany Gallagher of Raleigh, Shayla Parker of Raleigh and Toshia Swinson of Raleigh.

The convention also included several statewide nursing awards, scholarships and Hall of Fame inductions.

The North Carolina Nurses Association represents registered nurses across the state and provides professional development, advocacy and leadership programs.