Dr. Sherrie Palmieri Takes Leadership Role as President of Arizona Nurses Association

Alliant University recently announced a significant milestone in nursing leadership. Dr. Sherrie Palmieri, an esteemed figure in nursing education and practice, has been appointed as the President of the Arizona Nurses Association (AzNA) for the term of 2025-2027. This announcement was made during a pivotal moment in the nursing community at the AzNA Annual Convention, held from September 12-13, 2025, in Phoenix.

Dr. Palmieri’s election comes with a wealth of experience, notably her prior roles as Vice-President and President-Elect at AzNA, showcasing her dedication and effective leadership within the organization. Her tenure was marked by notable initiatives aimed at increasing communication and collaboration among nurses statewide. This included the introduction of bi-annual Regional Town Halls designed to foster engagement and provide a platform for nurses to voice their concerns and experiences.

As an actively engaged leader, she has also represented AzNA on critical teams, including the State Drug Overdose Fatality Review Team. Notably, her advocacy has been instrumental in addressing the nursing workforce challenges faced in Arizona, utilizing her voice in media and policy circles to highlight the pressing issues that impact the profession.

At the national level, Dr. Palmieri has further cemented her stature within the nursing profession by taking on the role of Chair of the American Nurses Association (ANA) Professional Policy Committee. In this capacity, she has driven policy reforms to address vital aspects of nursing such as staffing issues, workplace safety, and the promotion of racial equity in the field.

Currently, Dr. Palmieri serves as the Dean of Academic Affairs at Alliant University, where she oversees the quality of education and supports the development and advancement of faculty. Her experience includes significant positions such as National Dean of Faculty and Professional Advancement at Chamberlain University, where she was responsible for supporting a vast network of educators. Additionally, her previous role as Executive Director and Dean of Nursing at Southern New Hampshire University further underscores her capability in leading educational institutions and shaping the future of healthcare education.

Dr. Palmieri shared her enthusiasm for her dual role, stating, "It is an incredible honor to serve as President of AzNA while continuing my work at Alliant University. This dual role allows me to advance the nursing profession on multiple fronts — preparing the next generation of nurses through education and driving forward policy and advocacy efforts statewide."

In her presidency, Dr. Palmieri is committed to expanding access and initiatives aimed at early-career nurses. Her goal is to enhance inclusivity within the nursing profession and to create a Nurse Legacy Council that fosters mentorship opportunities for up-and-coming nurses. Collaboration with various nursing organizations in Arizona will also be a focal point of her administration, supporting a unifying approach to addressing the challenges faced by nurses.

Alliant University proudly stands behind Dr. Palmieri in her mission to elevate the standards of nursing practice and education, aligning with its commitment to producing graduates who are ready to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. With an emphasis on community engagement and academic excellence, the university continues to prepare its students to tackle real-world challenges effectively.

In summary, Dr. Sherrie Palmieri’s appointment as President of the Arizona Nurses Association signifies a promising direction for nursing in Arizona, underpinned by her dedication, vision, and commitment to advancing the profession. The future of nursing in the state is poised for positive change, while Alliant University reinforces its vital role in supporting healthcare education and policy advocacy.