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Vanessa Gorman: A Trailblazer in Emergency Nursing Leadership

The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) has made a groundbreaking decision with the election of Vanessa Gorman, DNP, MSN, RN, CCRN, FAEN, FCENA, as the 2027 president-elect. This announcement was made on October 1, 2026, during ENA's annual education and networking conference, Emergency Nursing 2026, held in Phoenix, Arizona. Gorman's election is not merely a personal achievement; it represents a milestone in the global leadership of emergency nursing, highlighting that leadership can emerge from any corner of the world.

A Commitment to Community and Connection

Gorman has long believed in the power of community within the emergency and forensic nursing sectors. Her professional journey reflects a dedication to connectivity and collaboration among nurses, particularly in high-stress environments. With extensive experience in both statewide government operations in Victoria, Australia, and leadership roles within emergency departments for over ten years, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new position. As the current secretary/treasurer of the ENA and a board member for the past five years, Gorman is well-equipped to lead the association forward.

“I'm thrilled to work alongside Chris Parker, the incoming president, and our board members to ensure that every ENA member sees the value and advocacy we bring to their needs,” Gorman remarked, underscoring her commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and support within the organization.

An International Perspective

Gorman's election marks a significant shift in the association’s leadership, making her the first global president-elect in its history. This achievement underscores the increasingly international nature of emergency nursing and demonstrates that expertise in this field is not limited to any one geographical area. Her perspective as a Melbourne-based nurse enriches the ENA, allowing it to better address the diverse challenges faced by emergency nurses worldwide.

“I believe our shared purpose transcends geographical boundaries,” Gorman emphasized, pointing towards a future where emergency nursing can flourish globally, further connecting practitioners through shared goals and values.

Newly Elected ENA Officials

In addition to the selection of Gorman, ENA members also voted in several other key officials. Tyler Babcock, MSN, MBA, RN, CEN, NEA-BC, TCRN, from New Jersey, was chosen as the new secretary/treasurer. Furthermore, directors from various states were also elected, indicating a robust and diverse leadership team moving forward. The commitment to developing leadership within the ranks signals a promising future for the ENA and the communities it serves.

About the Emergency Nurses Association

Founded in 1970, the Emergency Nurses Association stands at the forefront of the emergency nursing profession, dedicated to advocacy, education, research, and leadership within the field. With a membership exceeding 40,000 active participants globally, the ENA is seen as an essential resource, providing guidelines for patient safety, encouraging professional standards, and influencing healthcare policies. The association continues to advocate for the needs of its members, focusing on areas such as disaster preparedness and triage expertise, thus advancing the practice of emergency nursing.

As Gorman prepares to take on her new role, the ENA anticipates significant strides toward enhancing the global emergency nursing community, fostering connections that empower nurses everywhere. This election sets a powerful precedent for future leaders in the field, proving that innovation and progress can emerge from a diverse array of voices and experiences.