Maryland Nursing Organizations
Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments (ANHE)
The Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments is dedicated to integrating environmental health into nursing practice, education, and research. The organization focuses on promoting healthy environments for patients and communities through advocacy and education. ANHE provides resources and networking opportunities for nurses interested in environmental health issues. Members contribute to advancing the dialogue on the importance of environmental factors in health.
How to Join: To become a member, visit the ANHE website and fill out the online membership application. Membership is open to nurses, nursing students, and individuals interested in environmental health.
American Association of Critical Care Nurses - Chesapeake Bay Chapter
The Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) supports critical care nurses through education, advocacy, and community engagement. The organization provides resources for professional development and enhances the skills of critical care practitioners. Members benefit from networking opportunities and local events that focus on critical care practices. The chapter works to promote excellence in critical care nursing.
How to Join: To join, visit the AACN website, navigate to the membership section, and select the Chesapeake Bay Chapter. Complete the application form and pay the required membership fee.
Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses - Maryland Chapter
The Maryland Chapter of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN) supports nurses who care for women and newborns. The organization provides educational resources, advocacy, and professional development opportunities to enhance women's and neonatal health care. AWHONN emphasizes evidence-based practice and community outreach. Members can participate in local events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
How to Join: Interested individuals can join by visiting the AWHONN website, selecting the Maryland chapter, and completing the online membership application.
DNPs of Color
DNPs of Color is an organization that promotes diversity and inclusion within nursing, focusing on Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) professionals. The group emphasizes mentorship, networking, and advocacy for nurses of color. DNPs of Color aims to elevate the voices of diverse nursing professionals and address health disparities in communities. Members have access to resources and events that foster professional growth and collaboration.
How to Join: To become a member, visit the DNPs of Color website and complete the membership application form. Membership is open to all DNPs and nursing students.
The Lead Nursing Forward initiative, developed by the Salisbury University School of Nursing in collaboration with the University of Maryland School of Nursing, is dedicated to addressing Maryland's nursing shortage by fostering a strong pipeline of nurse educators and nurses. This initiative provides a resource hub where aspiring and current nurse educators can find educational pathways, job openings, and career development opportunities across Maryland’s healthcare and academic institutions. The program also supports students, academic institutions, and healthcare organizations, emphasizing the critical need for nursing professionals amid growing healthcare demands.
How to Join: To join Lead Nursing Forward, users can register on their website by creating a free account on the Lead Nursing Forward Career Portal. Once registered, users gain access to search tools for nursing educator positions, as well as resources on degree programs and career advancement. Organizations and institutions can also create profiles to post jobs and events.
Maryland Association of Nursing Students (MANS)
The Maryland Association of Nursing Students is a student-led organization that supports nursing students across the state. MANS offers networking, leadership development, and resources to enhance nursing education experience. The organization focuses on empowering nursing students and fostering professional relationships. Members can participate in events that promote academic and professional success.
How to Join: Nursing students can join by visiting the MANS website and completing the online membership form. Membership is free for all nursing students in Maryland.
Maryland Nurses Association (MNA)
The Maryland Nurses Association advocates for the nursing profession and provides resources for professional development, networking, and legislative representation. MNA enhances the quality of care and improves health outcomes across Maryland. The organization focuses on empowering nurses through education and advocacy initiatives. Members can access exclusive resources, events, and continuing education opportunities.
How to Join: Visit the MNA website and complete the online membership application. Membership options are available for registered nurses, nursing students, and associate members.
Maryland Nurse Residency Collaborative (MNRC)
The Maryland Nurse Residency Collaborative (MNRC) provides a comprehensive one-year residency program to support new graduate nurses transitioning to professional practice. Developed in collaboration with Vizient and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, MNRC’s curriculum helps new nurses gain confidence, improve clinical skills, and enhance decision-making in today’s complex healthcare environment.
How to Join: The MNRC residency is available through participating Maryland hospitals. New graduate nurses can access the residency program by applying to hospitals that offer MNRC. For additional information, hospitals and prospective nurses can contact MONL or visit the MNRC section on the Lead Nursing Forward website.
Maryland Organization of Nurse Leaders (MONL)
The Maryland Organization of Nurse Leaders (MONL) promotes the advancement of nurse leadership across Maryland through educational programs, networking, and advocacy initiatives. Members of MONL benefit from exclusive resources, professional development opportunities, and connections within a community focused on improving healthcare leadership.
How to Join: Nurses and healthcare leaders interested in joining MONL can apply directly on the MONL website. Membership options are available for individuals, with additional offers for groups. Applicants can select their preferred membership type, complete the online form, and submit any necessary fees to finalize enrollment.
Maryland State Council: Emergency Nurses Association (ENA)
The Maryland State Council of the Emergency Nurses Association promotes safe and effective emergency nursing practice. The organization offers education, advocacy, and resources for emergency nurses. Members engage in networking opportunities and receive updates on best practices in emergency care. The council focuses on improving patient care in emergency settings.
How to Join: To join, visit the ENA website and select the Maryland State Council. Complete the membership application and pay the applicable fees.
National Black Nurses Association - Baltimore Chapter | Greater DC Area Chapter | Southern Maryland Chapter
The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) represents and advocates for Black nurses, addressing health disparities in the community. Local chapters provide networking, mentorship, and educational resources to enhance the professional growth of Black nurses. The organization works to promote diversity in the nursing workforce. Members can participate in various programs and initiatives that support their professional development.
How to Join: To join, visit the NBNA website and select your preferred chapter (Baltimore, Greater DC Area, or Southern Maryland). Complete the membership application and pay the membership fee.
National Association of Hispanic Nurses - DC Chapter
The DC Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) promotes the advancement of Hispanic nurses and improves healthcare access for Hispanic communities. The organization provides mentorship, scholarships, and educational resources for its members. NAHN emphasizes the importance of diversity in nursing and community health. Members engage in advocacy and leadership development initiatives.
How to Join: Interested individuals can join by visiting the NAHN website, selecting the DC chapter, and completing the online membership application.
Oncology Nursing Society - Greater Baltimore Chapter | National Capital Chapter
The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) focuses on improving care for patients with cancer and supporting oncology nurses through education and advocacy. The Greater Baltimore and National Capital chapters provide local resources and networking opportunities for oncology professionals. Members can participate in events, access educational materials, and collaborate with peers in oncology nursing.
How to Join: To join ONS, visit their website and fill out the membership application. Choose your preferred
Sigma International Honor Society of Nursing - Pi at-Large Chapter
Sigma is an international honor society that supports nursing scholarship and leadership. The Pi at-Large Chapter offers networking, scholarship opportunities, and professional development for nurses in Maryland. Sigma focuses on advancing nursing knowledge and fostering a global community of nurse leaders. Members can participate in events and access resources that enhance their professional growth.
How to Join: To join Sigma, visit the Sigma website and complete the membership application. Eligibility criteria apply, including academic achievements and contributions to nursing.
National Nursing Organizations and Maryland Chapters
The American Nurses Association is the largest professional association for nurses in the United States, promoting high standards in nursing practice and advocating for nurses’ rights. The ANA provides a wide range of resources for professional development, including continuing education and legislative advocacy. Members have access to publications, discounts, and networking opportunities.
How to Join: To join, visit the ANA website and complete the membership application. Membership options include individual and organizational memberships.
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
The AACN represents the nation’s colleges and schools of nursing, supporting nursing education and advocating for policies that enhance nursing practice. The organization provides resources for faculty development, accreditation, and research initiatives. Members can access a wealth of educational resources and collaborate on best practices in nursing education.
How to Join: Membership is available for schools of nursing. To join, visit the AACN website and follow the membership application process for institutions.
American Nurses Association (ANA)
The American Nurses Association is the largest professional association for nurses in the United States, promoting high standards in nursing practice and advocating for nurses’ rights. The ANA provides a wide range of resources for professional development, including continuing education and legislative advocacy. Members have access to publications, discounts, and networking opportunities.
How to Join: To join, visit the ANA website and complete the membership application. Membership options include individual and organizational memberships.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
The NCSBN is a nonprofit organization that provides resources for nursing regulation, including licensure and practice. The organization supports boards of nursing in ensuring safe and effective nursing care. NCSBN focuses on developing innovative solutions for regulatory challenges and improving public safety in healthcare.
How to Join: Membership is available for state boards of nursing. More information can be found on the NCSBN website under the membership section.
National League for Nursing (NLN)
The National League for Nursing promotes excellence in nursing education and fosters the development of a diverse nursing workforce. The NLN offers resources for faculty development, program accreditation, and research in nursing education. Members can participate in events, access educational materials, and contribute to the advancement of nursing education.
How to Join: Individuals can join by visiting the NLN website and completing the membership application.
National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA)
The National Student Nurses' Association supports nursing students through education, advocacy, and leadership development. The NSNA provides resources to enhance the nursing education experience, including scholarships, conferences, and networking opportunities. Members can engage in initiatives that promote professional growth and community service.
How to Join: Nursing students can become members by visiting the NSNA website and completing the online application. Membership is open to all nursing students.