Minot State nursing presents at Legislative Showcase

BISMARCK, N.D. – The Minot State University Department of Nursing proudly participated in the North Dakota University System Legislative Showcase held in Memorial Hall at the North Dakota State Capitol Tuesday, Jan. 21.

MSU nursing students and professors joined Minot State marketing and university communications at the bi-annual event, visiting with legislators and other guests at the Capitol about news and initiatives within the University and nursing department.

This North Dakota Legislative Assembly takes place every two years. This year's session began on Jan. 6 and will run through April. The assembly brings together the North Dakota House of Representatives and Senate to convene and vote on proposed bills that shape the state’s future policies.

During the session, the Legislative Showcase serves as an opportunity for institutions within the North Dakota University System (NDUS) to highlight their programs and achievements. This year’s theme focused on healthcare.

Representing Minot State University Department of Nursing were Chair Amy Lee and Professor Richelle Johnson, students Hannah Hagen, April Lawrence, Raygen Lee, Emma Cornejo, along with MSU Marketing Director Cole Krueger, and Director of University Communications Michael Linnell.

The students engaged with state officials, offering firsthand insight into nursing education and its importance of investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals.

“This event is a great opportunity to showcase hardworking students in our thriving nursing program,” Krueger explained.

The showcase provided students with a platform to share their personal experiences in the program and advocate for the importance of nursing in healthcare.

“Being allowed the opportunity to express the importance of nursing in health care to public officials was such a rewarding experience,” said Hagen. “The stories we shared were valued, and — as a nursing student — I felt seen and heard."

“Getting the opportunity to talk to elected officials about the importance of nursing education and to tell them about how we are given amazing opportunities to learn from some of the best nurses around was very gratifying,” Lawrence added. “There were so many supporters of nursing in the House and Senate. It really gave us the opportunity to share our love of nursing with those outside the healthcare field.”

The event featured displays and individuals from all 11 NDUS campuses, the state’s Medical School at the University of North Dakota, and the North Dakota University System office. Minot State featured two advanced simulation units — infant and toddler simulation manikins — and discussed key points, including their experience at Minot State, work with various simulators in the department, and new guaranteed admission agreements with Dakota College at Bottineau and Lake Region State College.

By attending this event, Minot State University aimed to bridge the gap between policymakers and educators, ensuring that the state’s leaders understand the vital role nursing plays in community health and well-being.

About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.

Published: 01/31/25   




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