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Save the date for Friday, Feb. 5, 2027, in the WIU University Union for Nursing Advocacy Day!
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WIU to Host Nursing Advocacy Day Feb. 5

October 22, 2026

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MACOMB, IL. — The Western Illinois University Nursing program will host Nursing Advocacy Day from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Friday, Feb. 5, 2027, in the University Union. The event's theme is "Nursing Has a Voice. Use it." The event will bring together nursing students, professionals and community and government leaders to explore the role of advocacy in shaping the future of nursing and health care.

Nursing Advocacy Day will provide participants with opportunities to learn about the legislative process, strengthen their advocacy skills and connect with nursing professionals and policymakers. Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, interactive breakout sessions and networking, participants will explore how nurses can use their voices to influence health care policy, advocate for patients and communities and advance the nursing profession.

"Nursing Advocacy Day connects students with local leaders, legislators and decision-makers, equipping them with the knowledge and connections to advocate for meaningful change in health care. We want students to recognize that their voices matter and leave ready to speak up, engage with policymakers and take action to advocate for their patients, communities and the future of nursing, because meaningful change begins when nurses use their voices to make a difference." WIU Nursing Instructor Leesa Thompson, RN, said.

The event is designed to bring together nursing professionals, students, community leaders and legislators for a day of networking, nursing education and legislative engagement. Interactive activities will allow students to explore how health care concerns can become legislative priorities and practice communicating their perspectives to policymakers.

"Advocacy gives voice to WIU students and helps them to shape the policies that will impact their nursing careers," Zach Messersmith, WIU director of Government Relations, said. "Legislative engagement isn't only reserved for the Capitol; this event shows it happens in the classroom and in our communities."

Nursing Advocacy Day reflects WIU's commitment to preparing students to become engaged, informed professionals who understand the importance of their voices beyond clinical practice. By bringing together students, experienced nurses and leaders in government and health care, the event aims to encourage meaningful dialogue, build professional connections and inspire continued involvement in nursing advocacy.

For more information on WIU's Nursing program, visit wiu.edu/Nursing.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing