March Newsletter - March Magic: Spring Forward with SCNP – Let's Connect & Celebrate!

Hello Fabulous SCNP Family!

Spring is in the air here in sunny Sarasota, and so is the energy of our amazing nurse practitioner community! Whether you're shaking off winter vibes or already in full beach mode, we've got some exciting updates to share this month. Grab your favorite coffee (or iced latte—it's Florida, after all!), and let's dive in!

Casual Catch-Up: NP Discussion & Mingling Night – March 10!

Mark your calendars for Monday, March 10 at 6:00 PM at Keiser University! This is your low-key, high-fun chance to mingle, share stories from the clinic trenches, brainstorm ideas, and enjoy some good company (and free food!). Think casual networking with fellow NPs who "get it." BRING YOUR NAME TAG, AND BUSINESS CARDS ;)

Important: We're providing light bites and refreshments, so please register ASAP so we can order the right amount. Can't wait to hear what's new in your world!

Big News: Our Sarasota NP Gala is Officially ON for November!

Drumroll, please... The date is locked in, approvals are secured, and we're officially hosting our Sarasota NP Gala during National Nurse Practitioner Week (November 8–14, 2026)!

This will be our chance to celebrate YOU—our incredible NPs—for all you do every day. Think elegant evening, great food, awards, dancing, and lots of Sarasota sparkle. Venue details coming soon (stay tuned—it's going to be worth the wait!).

Get ready to dust off those fancy shoes and mark your calendars for mid-November. More info in upcoming newsletters!

National NP Highlights – What's Buzzing Across the Country

• Vote Now in the 2026 AANP Election! Voting is open through March 31—your chance to shape the future of our profession. Head to aanp.org/elections and make your voice heard!
• NPs Still #1 Job in America! For the third year in a row, U.S. News & World Report ranks Nurse Practitioner as the top job—high scores in salary, work-life balance, and growth. We're crushing it!
• FL Median Average Salary Reminder: Around $135,000 (Do not accept one penny less—negotiate up!)
• Advocacy Alert: Ongoing pushback continues against the Department of Education's proposed rule that excludes nursing from the "professional degree" definition (limiting federal loan access for graduate nursing programs). Nurses nationwide are urging inclusion—stay engaged with AANP for the latest updates and ways to advocate!
• Growth Explosion: With strong projections showing nurse practitioner employment growing about 40% from 2024 to 2034 (adding over 128,000 jobs), our role in healthcare is stronger than ever. Keep shining!

Quick Reminder: If you're not already following us on our website (sarasotacountynp.enpnetwork.com), jump over there for event RSVPs, resources, and more ways to stay connected.

Thank you for being part of this vibrant, supportive group—we're better together! If you have ideas for future events, topics, or just want to chat, hit reply or reach out anytime.

Wishing you a joyful March filled with sunshine, good patient outcomes, and maybe a few extra beach walks.

Warmest regards,

Sandra MacSweeney, MHA, FNP-C, PMHNP-C

President, Sarasota County Nurse Practitioners (SCNP)