Recognizing the Next Generation of Leaders in Emergency Nursing: ENA's '20 Under 40' Class

The ENA's '20 Under 40' Class of 2025: Pioneers in Emergency Nursing

In the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans, the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) celebrated the arrival of its fifth cohort of the '20 Under 40' Class. Recognizing the trailblazing accomplishments of young professionals in emergency nursing, this elite group showcases remarkable contributions across clinical practice, research, education, and advocacy. Each honoree exemplifies the dedication and passion required to improve emergency nursing as we know it.

Honorees Making a Difference

The '20 Under 40' Class of 2025 includes a diverse group of emergency nursing stars who are actively transforming their workplaces and communities. ENA President Ryan Oglesby remarked, "The nurses in this year's 20 Under 40 Class embody the notion that actions speak louder than words. Each of them is a changemaker who proudly reflects the spirit of this association's mission."

Among the recognized professionals are:

- Ashley Barney, BSN, RN, CEN, from Utah
- Luis Caso Vega, MBA, BSN, RN, CEN, from Florida
- Gigi Guan, MSN, BSN, RN, from California

These individuals are not just making significant strides in their current roles, but they are also serving as role models and mentors for future generations in the nursing field. Their stories are compelling and emphasize a commitment to excellence that informs patient care and community health.

The Selection Process

The selection of these 20 outstanding individuals was carried out by a panel of reviewers from ENA's ranks. This year, each member of the panel scrutinized nominations to ensure that only the most inspiring candidates were selected. Their dedication, work ethic, and community impact were essential factors in determining the honorees.

Celebrating Emergency Nursing

The announcement was made as part of the ENA's annual General Assembly and the Emergency Nursing 2025 event held in New Orleans. This gathering attracted attention and highlighted the ongoing efforts to advance the field of emergency nursing. The entire class will be featured in the upcoming October issue of ENA Connection, the association's publication dedicated to sharing valuable insights and stories from within the emergency nursing community.

The importance of collaboration, advocacy, and education in emergency nursing cannot be overstated. These honorees embody the role nurses play in driving healthcare forward, focusing not just on individual patient care but also on broader healthcare issues.

The ENA, since its founding in 1970, has been at the forefront of this vital nursing specialty, providing resources, professional development, and support for nearly 45,000 members worldwide. They actively work towards defining the future of emergency nursing through various avenues, including innovative trainings, research initiatives, and extensive advocacy efforts.

Looking Ahead

The selection of the '20 Under 40' Class is a reminder of the crucial contributions of emergency nurses and the impact they have on healthcare systems and patient outcomes. As the ENA continues to evolve, this cohort serves as an inspiring testament to future young professionals who aspire to leave their mark on the nursing community.

This ongoing recognition within emergency nursing paves the way for a brighter future in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of compassionate, effective care and the dedication of younger leaders in the field. As we celebrate these rising stars, we look forward to their continued contributions and the waves of change they will bring to emergency nursing and beyond.