Regional Spotlight: MNSGNA

The Pulse | Wednesday, April 17, 2019

Karin Cierzan, RN, CGRN

This September, the Minnesota Regional Society of SGNA is hosting a Fall Conference in Willmar, just over 100 miles from St. Paul. While it seems far away, it’s never too late to start planning ahead.

Members from around Minnesota, including North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa will learn about IBD, Colon Cancer and EUS/ERC—and this is just a few of the topics. We typically will hold the conference in the Twin Cities one year, then rotate to other cities such as Alexandria, Duluth or Red Wing in the opposite year.

The fall conference is held on a Saturday and part of Sunday. We typically will have 200 to 225 nurses in attendance. We have been able to offer a Saturday night event and also a Friday night event for early arrivals.

I always enjoyed being able to attend the conferences because of the educational offerings, networking and eventually volunteering for the conference committee. We feel so fortunate to have a well-attended conference with dedicated gastroenterologists, surgeons, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses and patients.

My personal favorite part of the conference is being a part of MnSGNA’s board of directors. I have had the privilege of working alongside a set of very dedicated nurses who love GI nursing as much as I do. In turn, I get to meet and network with other nurses all over the state of Minnesota and beyond.

Not to mention there’s lots to do around Willmar. Just 15 minutes north is Spicer, home to the Glacial Ridge Winery. Or take in a brew at the Foxhole Brewhouse, which specialized in hand crafted beer. The Barn Theatre is one of the area’s finest live performing arts theatres, so while you’re there, take in a show.

September is a beautiful time to visit Minnesota—it’s not nearly as cold. Why not experience the beauty of a Midwestern fall and take in some quality education? Keep an eye out for details on our website. We hope to see you there!

The Minnesota Regional Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (MnSGNA) is a regional society chartered by SGNA. Their membership includes 150 nurses and associates from Minnesota and the surrounding area. To learn more about the group, or to sign up for their newsletter, please contact mnsgna@gmail.com

Do you lead or participate in an SGNA regional society? We want to hear from you and spotlight your work! Share your ideas with the SGNA Editors at editor@sgna.org.

SGNA is a community of nurses, technicians, medical assistants, industry representatives and other GI professionals. Members join to stay up-to-date on industry trends and evidence-based practice, receive free and discounted education, network with others passionate about gastroenterology and to feel pride in their profession. Join SGNA today!