What a humbling moment to be able to serve a group of dedicated, talented, and committed nurses who share a common thread of improving trauma care. I am grateful for the service and dedication you make. My mother taught me that "gratitude" requires action. So the purpose of this article is to share specific ways we can serve together.

If you have ever wondered how you can get involved with the Society of Trauma Nurses (STN), here are a few jumping off points. From bedside care to impacting legislative measures, the STN has a place for you that meets your talents and your time.

* Attend the annual conference

* Promote advocacy and public policy

* TCAA Lobby Day

* Letter writing

* Serve as a mentor or ask for a mentor

* Join a committee

* Pediatric Committee

* Leadership Committee

* Conference Committee

* Membership Committee

* Marketing Committee

* TOPIC Committee

* ATCN Committee

* STN-EAST Committee

* Host educational offerings

* ATCN

* TOPIC

* Optimal

* Offer assistance to requests on the ListServe

* Write an article

* Case study

* Research

* New ideas

* Make plans to become certificated in trauma nursing

* Promote National Trauma Awareness Month

* Run for the Board of Directors

* Financially support scholarships

* Commit to the Leadership Institute

* Sign up on the speakers bureau

* Engage in special interest groups

* Volunteer to be a content expert

* Share your ideas

So let us say you only have 5 minutes to contribute. Well there is a place for you too! Stephanie Czuhajweski, STN Executive Director, would welcome your e-mail on "What Is a Trauma Nurse?" Over the coming year, Stephanie wants to gather our thoughts and experiences as trauma nurses to incorporate in future promotions and processes. Please take a moment and share with her your thoughts. Her e-mail is mailto:[email protected]

I am so glad you are a member of this organization. We serve together to reach the mission of being the premiere global nursing organization across the trauma continuum. Thank you.