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2026 AAMN Election Candidates
Voting May 25- June 7. All voting will be conducted online.
Winners will serve in a transitional capacity through the summer.
All terms run for two years and will begin at the conclusion of AAMN's annual conference, to be held in October.
Winners will be expected to be present during the conference.
GET TO KNOW THEM
* denotes an incumbent
PRESIDENT-ELECT
TREASURER
TREASURER
PRESIDENT-ELECT
Candidates listed in alphabetical order
Julian Gallegos, PhD, MBA, FNP-BC, NREMT, FAUNA, FADLN
Current Employment: Purdue University - West Lafayette; Assistant Professor, Assistant Head of Graduate Programs.
Professional Association Memberships: Sigma Theta Tau International – Delta Omicron Chapter, Member; National Volunteer Fire Council, Member; American Nurses Association, Member; American Nurses Credentialing Center, Board of Directors Member; Midwest Nursing Research Society, Member; National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Member; American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Member; Coalition of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses Indiana, Member; Indiana State Nurses Association, Member; Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates, Member; Board of Directors, Secretary; Urologic Nursing Editorial Board, Member; Fellow of the Academy of Urologic Nurses and Associates; American Urological Association, Member; APP Education Committee SUNA Appointed Member; American Association for Men in Nursing, Member, Research Committee Chair; Board of Directors, At Large Member; DNPs of Color Inc.
AAMN Involvement to Date:
Rejoined in 2020; served as Director at Large for four years (2022-2026); served three years as research committee chair; ex officio on education committee one year; Society of Luther Christman Fellow; Founded the American Men's Health Nursing Alliance;
led development of the Scope and Standards for Men's Health
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Candidate Statement:
I would be honored to serve as President-elect of the AAMN because my commitment to this organization has always been grounded in service, collaboration, and a genuine desire to advance our mission. Over the past four years as a Director-at-Large, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated leaders and members who care deeply about supporting men in nursing and strengthening the profession as a whole.
Throughout my service, I have tried to lead by building partnerships, creating opportunities, and moving important ideas forward. I founded the American Men’s Health Nursing Alliance because I believed there was a need to more intentionally connect men’s health and nursing. I also had the privilege of leading the effort to have men’s health formally designated as a specialty in nursing, an achievement that I believe reflects what is possible when vision, persistence, and teamwork come together in service of a greater purpose.
I have also worked closely and seamlessly with the current AAMN leadership, always with the shared goal of doing what is best for AAMN. I value continuity in leadership, respect the work that has already been done, and believe strongly in building on momentum rather than seeking personal recognition.
If entrusted with this role, I would bring thoughtful leadership, a collaborative spirit, and a strong commitment to membership growth, leadership development, and the continued advancement of men in nursing. I believe my experience, relationships, and dedication position me to serve AAMN well in its next chapter.
TREASURER
Julio Santiago, PhDDNP, RN, CCRN
Current Employment: Nursing faculty, Joliet Junior College.
Professional Association Memberships: ANA Illinois; NAHN Illinois and National; AAMN National and Joliet Junior College AAMN Chapter.
AAMN Involvement to Date:
AAMN member since 2021; Joliet Junior College AAMN chapter president and member; Presenter at 2022 AAMN annual conference
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Candidate Statement:
I joined AAMN in 2021 to help strengthen the visibility and recruitment of men in nursing at our community college. Since then, the Joliet Junior College AAMN Chapter has been recognized as one of the Best Schools for Men in Nursing for four consecutive years. I remain actively engaged on campus by coordinating volunteer opportunities, supporting nursing recruitment initiatives, and maintaining an active AAMN chapter.
For the past five years, I have served on the ANA Illinois Legislative Committee, contributing to the development of nursing practice policies and statewide healthcare initiatives. I have also been a member of the finance committee for the National Association of Hispanic Nurses for more than 10 years, helping guide financial policy, evaluate organizational goals, and support the association’s fiduciary responsibilities.
My professional background includes 16 years in nursing education, along with leadership experience as an assistant director at a large Midwestern community hospital, where I managed an annual budget of more than $20 million. For the past 15 years, I have also owned and operated a business, overseeing financial operations and contributing to sustained organizational growth.
I have had the privilege of serving as both a member and chairperson of the Illinois Board of Nursing, as well as a Board Member for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). These experiences have shaped a broad, well-informed perspective that I believe will serve the AAMN Board of Directors well as I seek the treasurer position.
TREASURER
Rebecca Smith, BSN, RN
Current Employment: Registered nurse, VA Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN (2018-present); American Association of Critical Care Nurses (2022-present).
AAMN Involvement to Date:
I joined AAMN in 2018 and have remained actively involved at both the local and national levels throughout the years. At my university, I served as both secretary and president of our chapter, where I organized 5K events, fundraisers, and coordinated local speakers to promote engagement and education. I also served as a liaison connecting three Cincinnati-area chapters to strengthen collaboration and communication.
Nationally, I have attended five AAMN conferences and contributed as a panel speaker. I was honored to be named Student of the Year in 2021. My involvement has also included participating in prostate cancer awareness initiatives. I have served on the national conference planning committee and an ad hoc bylaws committee. For the conference specifically, I helped as a facilitator and time keeper for presentations.
For the past four years, I have served as the chair of the membership committee, leading monthly meetings and developing initiatives such as What’s the Buzz and the AAMN Spring Summit to enhance chapter connection and support. I have hosted one-one meetings with chapters across the United States and facilitated networking opportunities between chapters to share ideas and best practices.
Finally, I contributed to the creation of the 50th AAMN conference T-shirts.
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Candidate Statement:
I have proudly been part of AAMN since 2018, and serving on the board of directors since 2022. It has been one of the most defining experiences of my career and will forever impact it.
As membership chair, I helped grow our organization from approximately 900 members to over 1,400 members by re-engaging inactive chapters, strengthening existing ones, and building meaningful, lasting connections across the country. This growth has directly contributed to the financial strength of AAMN, giving me valuable insight into the impact of membership on the organization’s sustainability and reinforcing my readiness to serve as treasurer.
My involvement goes beyond my formal role. I actively support at the national conferences behind the scenes and stay connected with chapters year-round to ensure they feel supported and engaged. I also contribute financially to AAMN, reflecting my belief in stewardship and personal investment in our mission.
Men’s health is a central focus of my professional practice, and I am committed to advancing this work within AAMN. As an MICU charge nurse and unit council president, I lead with accountability, professionalism and integrity, while maintaining confidentiality and building trust.
After completing two terms on the Board, I am eager to continue serving as treasurer. I want to strengthen what we’ve built and help lead AAMN into its next chapter.
It would be an honor to continue advocating for our members.
If entrusted with this role, I would bring thoughtful leadership, a collaborative spirit, and a strong commitment to membership growth, leadership development, and the continued advancement of men in nursing. I believe my experience, relationships, and dedication position me to serve AAMN well in its next chapter.
The at-large board members serve two-year terms.
AT-LARGE BOARD MEMBERS (5 positions available)
Candidates listed in alphabetical order
Brent Becnel, DNP, FNP-BC
Current Employment: Clinical provider, nurse practitioner, Novant Health/GoHealth Urgent Care.
Professional Association Memberships: AANP, NCNA, AAMN, LANP.
AAMN Involvement to Date: Joined AAMN in August, 2025. Attended the 50th annual AAMN Conference in October, 2025. I asked and was invited to be part of AAMN's education committee, helping move the Men's Health Nursing certification forward toward reality.
Candidate Statement:
Dr. Becnel is a dedicated nurse practitioner and active member of AAMN, having joined the organization in 2025. Shortly after becoming a member, he attended the 50th Anniversary Conference, where he was invited to contribute to the education committee with a focus on advancing the men’s health initiative. His early involvement reflects his commitment to elevating the visibility, health, and professional development of men in nursing.
He practices in an urgent care center in Charlotte, N.C., providing comprehensive care to a diverse patient population. His clinical work is strengthened by ongoing collaboration with author Dr. Julian Gallegos on a forthcoming book addressing the specialized care needs of firefighters — an effort that aligns with his passion for supporting high‑risk and underserved groups and improving clinical knowledge in areas where gaps persist.
As an engaged member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Dr. Becnel has connected with influential leaders, including the late Dr. Loretta Ford, whose pioneering work continues to inspire his interest in health policy and his commitment to advancing full practice authority and strengthening the voice of nurse practitioners nationwide.
He views service on AAMN’s board of directors as a natural extension of his stewardship to the profession. Dr. Becnel’s committed to supporting the next generation of men in nursing, strengthening research, expanding educational initiatives, and improving dissemination of evidence‑based information. He’d be honored to serve in this role.
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Lee Bratcher, CRNP, DNP
Current Employment: University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN, AANP.
AAMN Involvement to Date: I am the faculty advisor the UA CCN Men in Nursing chapter.
Candidate Statement:
I am seeking an at-large board member position because I want to move from being a consumer of AAMN’s work to being an active contributor to its mission. As a faculty advisor for my local chapter, I work closely to support our students, increase member involvement, and grow our chapter membership. This experience has given me insight into what chapters need to thrive and how AAMN can continue to strengthen engagement at the grassroots level.
I have attended the AAMN annual conference, which further reinforced my commitment to advancing the organization’s goals and supporting men in nursing at all stages of their careers. Serving on the board would allow me to bring the perspective of a faculty advisor and educator while contributing ideas, and a willingness to serve our members.
I am passionate about advocacy, mentorship, and professional development, and I would be honored to support AAMN’s growth and impact as an at-large board member.
Ethan Bryant, DNP, MBA, RN
Current Employment: Assistant nurse manager PICU, Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN, Children’s Hospitals’ Solutions for Patient Safety, AACN, Emergency Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau, ANA, International Association of Forensic Nurses, American College of Helathcare Executives, Michigan Organization for Nursing Leadership, American Organization for Nursing Leadership.
AAMN Involvement to Date: Joined AAMN in April, 2023.
Candidate Statement:
While I have not been as actively engaged in AAMN at the committee level as I would like to be, I am very interested and motivated to become more involved moving forward, particularly at both the national and local levels.
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated professional behavior, a commitment to leadership, and a passion for supporting and mentoring others in nursing. I am actively involved in other professional organizations and continue to seek opportunities to grow, contribute, and collaborate with fellow leaders.
I strongly align with the mission of AAMN and believe in advancing diversity, representation, and leadership within the profession. I am committed to supporting the strategic goals of AAMN and contributing in a meaningful and sustainable way.
I value stewardship, giving back to the profession, and maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions. I am eager to take a more active role within AAMN and contribute to its continued growth and impact.
Austin Carman, BSN, RN
Current Employment: Critical care staff nurse, Nebraska Medicine.
Professional Association Memberships: Active member of AAMN, ANA, and the Nebraska Nurses Association.
AAMN Involvement to Date: AAMN member since 2021; Joliet Junior College AAMN chapter president and member; Presenter at 2022 AAMN annual conference.
Candidate Statement:
I began my journey with AAMN in 2022 as a student at Nebraska Methodist College, where I helped re-establish the Greater Omaha Men in Nursing Chapter and volunteered to serve as its president. I held this role from 2022-2024, during which time we organized several impactful initiatives, including partnering with DKMS, launching a holiday Giving Tree donation program, and teaching Hands-Only CPR within the local community. In 2023, I was honored to receive the AAMN Outstanding Student of the Year Award in recognition of my contributions to the Omaha chapter. I have also served on the Membership Committee since October 2023 and joined the Conference Committee in October 2024, with the goal of contributing to and advancing AAMN’s mission. In 2025, I further engaged with the organization by co-presenting an abstract at the annual conference with Eric Myers on Critical Conversations. I look forward to continuing to support AAMN and remaining actively involved in the organization as I grow professionally, and contribute to its ongoing impact.
Stephanie Gedzyk-Nieman, DNP, MSN, RNC-MNN, CNE
Current Employment: Assistant dean, pre-licensure programs, assistant clinical professor, Duke University School of Nursing.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN, AACN, NLN, Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, Sigma Theta Tau.
AAMN Involvement to Date:
AAMN member since 2015. Served on the conference planning committee (2022 and 2023), an abstract reviewer (2024), and most recently on the membership committee. Also previously served on the board of the AAMN Foundation.
Candidate Statement:
I seek to serve on the AAMN board because my professional identity, service history, and leadership trajectory are deeply aligned with AAMN’s mission to advance men in nursing and strengthen the nursing workforce.
I have been an active AAMN member since 2015, serving on the board of the AAMN Foundation, as well as AAMN's conference planning committee, where I also served as an abstract reviewer, and most recently on the membership eommittee. I also serve as faculty advisor to the Duke AAMN chapter and have helped launch AAMN initiatives within academic and clinical settings.
My co-authored research regarding school career counselors and their advisement of males into nursing lead to the development of the school counselor resources found on AAMN’s website and the redesign of the FutureRN campaign tools. This work directly supported AAMN’s largest donor gift to date and advanced gender diversity through scalable, evidence-informed strategies.
Beyond AAMN, I bring extensive academic leadership experience and funded initiatives focused on mentorship, workforce development, and inclusive education. I am known for my professionalism, relationship-building, dependability, and ethical leadership. Serving on the AAMN board is a natural extension of my ongoing dedication to this organization and to the future of nursing.
Angel Giles, EdD, MEd, BSHS, ASN, RN
Current Employment: Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Mental Health.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN, American’s Health Insurance Plans.
AAMN Involvement to Date: Member since February, 2026.
Candidate Statement: As a registered nurse, educator, and director of learning and development within a statewide mental health system, I’m deeply committed to supporting the mission of AAMN. My focus is on strengthening the pathway into nursing for men, enhancing their preparation, and supporting a strong sense of professional identity.
Although I’m a newer member of AAMN, my career has consistently centered on service, leadership, and responsible stewardship across both healthcare and higher education. I’ve led large-scale workforce development efforts, guided training strategies for multidisciplinary teams, and supported the advancement of equitable, culturally responsive care through education aligned with policy and best practices. Much of my work focuses on building systems that better support clinicians, especially in high-demand areas like behavioral health, while also promoting high standards of professionalism and accountability.
I’m eager to become more involved with AAMN at both the national and chapter levels and to contribute in meaningful ways to its strategic goals. I bring experience working alongside executive leaders, managing complex initiatives, and maintaining a strong commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice. Serving as an at-large board member would be a meaningful way for me to give back to the profession. I’m particularly interested in helping shape initiatives that attract, support, and retain men in nursing. I look forward to contributing to AAMN’s mission through thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future of nursing.
Brian King, DNP, RN, CCRN
Current Employment: Retired.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN, AACN.
AAMN Involvement to Date: Joined AAMN many years ago.
Candidate Statement: I have been a member of AAMN for many years. I have been a strong advocate for men in nursing for 40 years, and have fought many a battle. For the last 14 years, I have helped to mentor the next generation of men in nursing as a university professor. I have been able to show them what a strong, caring and knowledgeable male nurse can add to the profession. I joined this organization because I believed in its mission. For many years, I was an ambassador for the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.
Brent MacWilliams, PhD, MSN, BSN
Current Employment: Adult nurse practitioner and professor, University of WIsconsin-Oshkosh School of Nursing and Health Professions.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN, ANA, National Nurses on Boards Coalition, Wisconsin Center for Nursing..
AAMN Involvement to Date: AAMN president (2016–2018); AAMN Foundation president (2018-2020); Immediate past president (2018-2020); leadership role and national advisory support; national speaker and advocate promoting men's health equity and diversity in the nursing workforce; Institutional champion of AAMN initiatives at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, which has been recognized multiple times as on of AAMN's Best Schools for Men in Nursing.
Candidate Statement:
I have been actively engaged in AAMN serving as vice-chair of the Research
AAMN has played a defining role in my professional journey, and I am deeply committed to its continued growth and impact. Having previously served as national president and the AAMN Foundation's president, I have seen firsthand the power of AAMN to advance leadership, equity, and opportunity within the nursing profession.
My interest in serving as a board member at-large reflects a desire to continue supporting the organization during an important period of growth. AAMN’s mission to improve men’s health and increase gender diversity in nursing remains essential to the future of healthcare. I believe the organization is uniquely positioned to influence workforce development, strengthen partnerships across nursing and healthcare organizations, and expand national awareness of men’s health disparities.
Throughout my career as a nurse practitioner, educator, and national nursing leader, I have focused on building sustainable programs, mentoring future leaders, and promoting inclusive excellence in nursing education and practice. I bring experience serving on national boards, leading complex organizations, and advancing strategic initiatives that align with AAMN’s mission.
If elected, I will approach this role with a spirit of stewardship, collaboration, and service. My goal is to support the continued advancement of AAMN’s strategic priorities while helping cultivate the next generation of leaders committed to strengthening the nursing profession.
It would be an honor to continue serving the members of AAMN and contributing to the organization’s future success.
Eric Myers, BSN, RN
Current Employment: AssiRN, Neonatal critical care unit, OSF St. Francis Medical Center.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN, National Association for Neonatal Nurses, Greater Chicago Association of Neonatal Nurses, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Socity of Nursing.
AAMN Involvement to Date: I joined AAMN in 2022 and attended that year’s national conference in Orlando. During the conference, I met incredible individuals whom I am now proud to call colleagues and friends, and I immediately felt that I had found a place where I was truly welcomed. Following that first year, I joined the conference planning committee and have participated in every conference since offering my assistance any way that I can.
Candidate Statement:
I bring a commitment to professional growth, service, and stewardship with over 15 years of being a nurse that aligns with the mission and goals of the AAMN. I am actively engaged with AAMN through ongoing membership and conference participation and being on the conference planning committee, demonstrating involvement and dedication to the organization.
My professional practice includes the mentorship of new nurses to my unit, supporting their transition, skill development, and professional confidence in a high-acuity clinical environment. My nursing involvement can be seen through active membership and engagement in national nursing organizations including NANN, GCANN and Sigma, reflecting a strong commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. As a nurse, I consistently demonstrate professional behaviors, ethical decision-making, and respectful communication in all professional interactions.
I exhibit a strong spirit of stewardship by contributing time, expertise, and leadership to initiatives that strengthen nursing practice, organizational culture, and employee engagement. By engaging in professional councils, peer review, educational initiatives, and volunteering with organizations including the Penguin Project and Sophia’s Kitchen, I demonstrate a sustained commitment to professional development and community impact.
I am committed to advancing the strategic goals of AAMN through advocacy, leadership development, and inclusive excellence. I would consider it an honor to serve as an at-large board member and further contribute to the continued growth and success of AAMN.
Somali Nguyen, DNP, CRNP, AGACNP-BC
Current Employment: Assistant professor, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing.
Professional Association Memberships: Alabama League for Nursing (2021-present); The Society of Point of Care Ultrasound (2021-present); AAMN (2020-present); AAMN Birmingham Chapter (treasurer, immediate past president); ANA (2020-present); Nurse Practitioner Alliance of Alabama (2020-present); Gerontological Advanced Practices Nurses Association (2020-present, and chair of its acute care SIG); National League for Nursing (2019-present.
AAMN Involvement to Date:
I became a member of AAMN in 2020 and have demonstrated sustained leadership and engagement with the organization at both the local and national levels. I have been actively involved with the Birmingham at-large chapter since 2021, serving in progressive leadership roles including chair for the scholarship and education committee (2021–2022), president-elect (2022), president (2022–2025), and treasurer (2026–present). In these roles, I have led initiatives to enhance member engagement, mentorship, and student involvement, including supporting undergraduate students in obtaining board positions and fostering leadership development within the chapter.
At the national level, I have contributed to AAMN’s mission through scholarly dissemination and conference engagement. I have presented at multiple AAMN conferences, including presentations on innovative educational strategies, leadership development, and diversity in nursing. Notably, I presented “The Ultrasound Games: Implementing Ultrasound into a Graduate Nursing Program” and “Fostering Diversity and Engagement: Recruiting Pre-licensure Nursing Students for Nursing Board Positions” at the 2024 conference, as well as “Leading Change: Care Navigators Shaping the Future of Care Transition” at the 2025 conference.
Additionally, I have contributed to national dialogue on nursing leadership and equity through participation in conference panels and presentations such as “The Critical Role of Nurses on Boards: How Board Service Impacts Health Equity” at the 2022 annual conference. My involvement has focused on advancing AAMN’s priorities of leadership development, diversity, and the promotion of men in nursing through education, mentorship, and professional service.
Candidate Statement:
I am honored to be considered for an at-large position on the AAMN board, and am driven by a vision to further elevate AAMN as a national leader in shaping a more diverse, inclusive, and innovative nursing workforce.
My journey with AAMN has been rooted in sustained service and leadership at the chapter level, including chair for the scholarship and education committee (2021–2022), president-elect (2022), president (2022–2025), and treasurer (2026–present) of the Birmingham at-large chapter, where I have worked to build strong pipelines for student engagement, mentorship, and leadership development. These experiences have reinforced my belief that the future of nursing depends on intentional investment in people, cultivating environments where individuals feel empowered to lead, contribute, and belong.
Looking forward, I envision AAMN continuing to expand its national influence by strengthening partnerships, amplifying the visibility of men in nursing, and advancing initiatives that address workforce diversity and health equity. I am particularly passionate about leveraging innovation in education and leadership development to prepare the next generation of nurses to meet the evolving demands of healthcare.
Through my national presentations, organizational leadership, and collaborative work across professional organizations, I have developed the ability to think strategically, lead with integrity, and contribute meaningfully at a broader level. If elected, I will bring a spirit of stewardship, a commitment to excellence, and a clear focus on advancing AAMN’s strategic goals.
I am excited about the opportunity to help shape the future of AAMN and the profession of nursing.
Andrew Richards, PhD, RN, CNE
Current Employment: Professor, Southern Adventist University.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN (2014-present), ANA (2014-2025), Sigma Theta Tau International (2019-present).
AAMN Involvement to Date: I joined AAMN in 2014. Since 2020, I've attended each annual conference and have presented multiple times over the past five conferences. I've previously served on the research task force and education and conference planning subcommittees. I currently serve on the education committee.
Candidate Statement:
I am honored to self-nominate for an at-large position onAAMN's board of directors. I have been an active AAMN member since 2014 and have supported the organization through committee service, conference engagement, and national outreach focused on advancing men in nursing.
A central focus of my work has been strengthening early recruitment by connecting with school counselors and pre-college students. I led the development of resources for school counselors, now housed on AAMN's website. This was informed by a study I co-authored on how counselors advise male students about nursing careers. In 2024, representing AAMN, I shared these resources with counselors attending the American School Counselor Association's Annual Conference in Kansas City, and provided an update on this outreach at the 2024 AAMN Annual Conference. In 2025, I continued this work by leading a redesign of AAMN’s Future RN program materials, which were shared at the 2025 AAMN Annual Conference to support member outreach to students in their communities.
As a nurse educator and researcher, my scholarship focuses on recruitment, mentoring, support, and development of underrepresented populations. My service includes establishing an endowed scholarship to promote diversity in nursing, serving as chair of my institution’s faculty senate, and leading service-learning experiences. These experiences have strengthened my leadership, communication, and consensus-building skills. I would be honored to serve on the AAMN board and help advance its strategic goals while supporting the continued growth and visibility of men in nursing.
Ronald Vance, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE
Current Employment: Associate professor, Ohio University.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN member and representative of the conference planning committee; Ohio League of Nursing board of directors.
AAMN Involvement to Date: Since joining AAMN in 2023, I have actively engaged in working with the conference planning committee, attended all annual conferences, presented posters and a podium presentation. In 2024, I started the Ohio University student chapter of AAMN and serve as its faculty advisor.
Candidate Statement:
I am honored to self-nominate for an at-large position on the AAMN board. AAMN has been meaningful to me not only as a professional organization, but also as a community that supports, encourages, and elevates men in nursing at every stage of their journey.
As a nurse educator and faculty advisor for our student AAMN chapter at Ohio University, I have had the privilege of mentoring students, supporting future nurse leaders, and helping create spaces where students feel connected, valued, and inspired to grow in the profession. Those experiences have reinforced for me how important visibility, mentorship, and belonging are in shaping the future of nursing.
Throughout my career, I have been passionate about leadership development, student engagement, and creating meaningful opportunities that help nurses build confidence and professional identity. I believe AAMN plays a vital role in that work, and I would be proud to contribute to its mission on a broader level.
If elected, I would bring a collaborative spirit, a strong commitment to service, and a genuine desire to support the continued growth of AAMN, its members, and its chapters. I would be grateful for the opportunity to serve and help advance the important work of this organization.
Trae Stewart, PhD, MPH, MSN, MS, MN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Current Employment: Professor and PMHNP program director, Massachusetts College of Health and Pharmacy Sciences.
Professional Association Memberships: AAMN, Nevada Nurses Association, American Psychiatric Nurses Association, American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Nurses Association, International Association of Forensic Nurses, American Public Health Association.
AAMN Involvement to Date: Conference attendee, AAMN chapter creator and faculty mentor, research approval/collaboration.
Candidate Statement:
I am seeking election to the AAMN board because its mission is deeply personal to me and closely aligned with my leadership, scholarship, and service. Throughout my career, I have worked to strengthen the visibility, belonging, and leadership of men in nursing through mentorship, research, and organizational engagement.
At my current institution, I helped establish an AAMN chapter to create stronger community and professional identity for male nursing students and colleagues. My scholarship has also examined men in nursing faculty roles and male nursing students’ experiences in nursing programs, reflecting my sustained commitment to advancing men in the profession. One such study will be presented at this year's AAMN Annual Conference.
I would bring to the board prior leadership experience in professional governance, including service as a board member for other professional organizations, and as a current member of the board of directors for the Nevada Nurses Association. These roles have strengthened my commitment to stewardship, strategic planning, collaboration, professionalism, and confidentiality.
I also bring a global perspective that I believe can help broaden AAMN’s reach and relevance. As a Fulbright Specialist and visiting professor at several international universities, I have worked across diverse educational and healthcare contexts and have seen how gender, culture, and leadership shape the nursing profession worldwide. I would be honored to help AAMN continue advancing its strategic goals while fostering mentorship, leadership development, and a stronger, more inclusive future for men in nursing.
