Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: WSU College of Nursing and NAHN’s Commitment to Health and Education
Monday, October 7, 2024
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, provides an opportunity to recognize the contributions of Hispanic nurses and highlight their impact on healthcare and communities. The Washington State University (WSU) College of Nursing and the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) are actively contributing to these efforts through research, education, and cultural advocacy, all aimed at benefitting Hispanic communities in Washington and beyond. By advancing innovative models that improve access to health care services and reduce disparities, promoting education, and fostering inclusion, their work is helping to shape the future of nursing and health equity.
Unveiling Perspectives on Farmworker Health
WSU College of Nursing researchers are active in extending our understanding of the health impacts of wildfire smoke on agricultural workers in Washington. Led by Dr. Julie Postma, with support from Dr. Sheila Hurst, WSU College of Nursing PhD graduate Molly Parker, and undergraduate honors student Juliana Romo, the team gathered data from agricultural supervisors to understand the challenges posed by smoke hazards on the largely Hispanic farmworker community.
Given that many agricultural workers in Washington State are of Hispanic descent, this research is crucial in addressing the occupational health disparities they face. Conducting bilingual surveys and engaging with farmworkers through culturally competent methods, the WSU College of Nursing team is working to find ways to improve health outcomes, promote safe working conditions, and advocate for policies that protect this vital workforce. Read the research article: Perceptions of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards among Agricultural Workers in Washington State recently published in the Journal of the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses (AAOHN).
An Interview with Dr. José Parés-Avila
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Dr. José Parés-Avila, Interim DNP Program Director at WSU College of Nursing, reflects on his 35-year career dedicated to improving healthcare for Hispanic and LGBTQ+ communities. His Puerto Rican heritage drives his commitment to culturally competent care and health equity. Now a leader and mentor at WSU, Dr. Parés-Avila advocates for inclusive education and greater representation in nursing. Read more about his inspiring journey and impact on healthcare.
NAHN Washington State Chapter: Promoting Hispanic Nurses and Health Equity
The newly formed Washington State Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (WA-NAHN) aims to create a statewide support network for Hispanic nurses, advocating for Latinx representation, leadership, and equitable access to nursing education. Founders Silvia Bowker, Genevieve Crystal Aguilar, and Rebecca Allen share their personal journeys and the challenges they’ve faced while highlighting the chapter’s mission to empower and uplift Hispanic nurses and healthcare in their communities. To learn more about the formation of WA-NAHN and its impact, read the full article from the Winter 2024 issue of The Washington Nurse, a Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA) publication.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month With Us
Hispanic heritage month. Vector web banner, poster, card for social media, networks. Greeting with national Hispanic heritage month text, Papel Picado pattern, perforated paper on black background
Hispanic HeritageMonth is a time for celebration, reflection, and community. We encourage students, staff, faculty, and nurses to participate in the celebration by sharing their stories on social media. Here are some ways to engage and show your support:
- Tag a Hispanic Nurse Who Inspires You! Share a post highlighting the contributions of a Hispanic nurse you admire.
- What Does Hispanic Heritage Month Mean to You? Reflect on the importance of this month and share your thoughts, whether through a personal story, a message of appreciation, or simply spreading the word.
