Annual Symposium

ASNA Annual Symposium — 2026

Dates: April 16–17, 2026
Location: Bryant Conference Center, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Hosted by: Alabama State Nurses Association (ASNA)

The ASNA Annual Symposium is a premier professional development event for nurses across Alabama, focusing on leadership, innovation, clinical excellence, and emerging trends in healthcare.

Symposium Highlights

Day 1 — April 16, 2026

• Opening Keynote Speaker: Dr. Teresa D. Welch, EdD, MSN, RN, NEA-BC
  Dr. Welch brings decades of experience in nursing leadership, administration, and mentorship. Her keynote will focus on Leadership and Courage in Nursing, offering insights into leading through change, building resilient teams, and advancing quality outcomes in complex healthcare environments.

Day 2 — April 17, 2026

• Keynote Speaker: Chris Hickman, MSIS
  Christopher Hickman is a nationally recognized expert in artificial intelligence (AI) literacy and ethical AI adoption in healthcare and nursing education. His keynote will explore how emerging technologies like AI can be responsibly integrated into clinical practice, education, and decision-making to shape the future of care delivery.

What to Expect

• Continuing Education Opportunities: Sessions offering contact hours for licensure renewal.

• Interactive Workshops: Practical tools for leadership skill building and professional growth.

• Networking & Collaboration: Time to connect with colleagues, leaders, and innovators in nursing.

• Topic Areas:
  • Leadership Science & Management
  • Innovation & Technology in Practice
  • Ethical AI Integration in Healthcare
  • Quality Improvement & Patient Outcomes

About the Speakers

Dr. Teresa D. Welch, EdD, MSN, RN, NEA-BC

Dr. Welch is an Associate Professor and Nurse Executive Coordinator with extensive clinical and leadership experience. Her scholarship and professional work center on leadership science, nursing management, and developing nurse leaders. She has successfully implemented interdisciplinary initiatives and led organizational change efforts in healthcare settings.

Chris Hickman, MSIS

Chris Hickman is an AI and data analytics leader in nursing education and practice. He serves as an instructor and co-chair of the AI Advisory Group at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing. His work emphasizes advancing AI literacy, integrating technology ethically, and equipping clinicians and educators with the skills to responsibly use AI tools.

ASNA has secured a room block at the Hotel Capstone, just steps from the event venue. The nightly rate is $134. This rate expires on April 1, 2026, so don't wait, secure your accommodations now. Just follow this link.