#United States #Schaumburg #Emergency Nurses Association #Dustin Bass #ENA President

Introduction

Dustin Bass has embarked on his new role as the president of the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) for 2026, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a clear vision aimed at uplifting the community of emergency nurses. With a dedication to fostering deeper connections among its over 40,000 members, Bass is committed to reshaping the landscape of emergency nursing and ensuring that every nurse feels recognized and appreciated.

Background

Hailing from North Carolina, Bass has showcased his leadership skills throughout his 15-year career in various capacities within emergency medicine. He holds a doctorate in healthcare leadership and policy from Yale University, a testament to his commitment to the field and his desire to effect positive change. His current position as the vice president of System Emergency Services at ECU Health in Greenville further complements his extensive experience.

Recognitions and Achievements

Bass's contributions have not gone unnoticed; he was selected as one of ENA's inaugural 20 Under 40 in 2021 and stirred significant acclaim in 2023 from the American Organization for Nursing Leadership as part of the Young Professional Voices class. His publications, including The Leadership Dashboard and Leadership Affirmations: A Coloring Book and Journal, also reflect his commitment to enhancing the professional development of emergency nurses.

Vision for 2026

As he steps into his presidential role, Bass is focused on a central theme: creating a culture of belonging, community, and hope within the nursing sector. He emphasizes that emergency nurses contribute a tremendous amount to the healthcare system and thus deserve robust support from their professional association. Bass states, “2026 will be a year of belonging, community, and hope — one that reflects the undeniable strength and spirit of emergency nursing.” This focus aligns with his sustained efforts to enhance nursing practice and morale in the face of systemic challenges.

Engagement and Involvement

Since beginning his career in 2010, Bass has consistently engaged with the ENA community, serving on various committees and councils. He previously held the position of president for the Nevada ENA Council and joined the ENA Board of Directors in 2021. His proactive involvement underscores his belief in the power of collective effort to advance the interests and well-being of emergency nursing professionals.

The 2026 ENA Board

Dustin Bass leads a diverse board, including President-elect Chris Parker from Virginia and Secretary/Treasurer Vanessa Gorman from Australia. The board is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge from various healthcare settings. This diverse leadership group is well-positioned to address the evolving challenges faced by emergency nurses at local and national levels.

The ENA’s Role

The Emergency Nurses Association, since its inception in 1970, has become a crucial advocate for the emergency nursing profession. It works tirelessly to promote patient safety, develop practical standards, and influence healthcare policies. ENA's commitment to member education, support, and research ensures that professionals are equipped to face the rigorous demands of their roles and adapt to emerging healthcare trends.

Conclusion

Dustin Bass's presidency marks a pivotal point for ENA and the broader community of emergency nurses. His focus on valuing connection and cooperation among nurses is expected to galvanize further developments in emergency care practices. As he embarks on his year-long journey, one can expect transformative initiatives that reflect the true spirit of collaboration inherent in nursing.

For more information on the Emergency Nurses Association and its initiatives, visit www.ena.org.