Reflect on the Past as You Embrace All That 2024 Has to Offer
As we embark on a new year, reflecting on important milestones can inspire us. On July 17, 1975, ONS was incorporated. In 2024, we recognize our 49th year, which means that the grand 50th anniversary is on the horizon. The planning is underway, and we cannot wait to celebrate with you.
In 1984, ONS published its first set of chemotherapy recommendations, Cancer Chemotherapy Guidelines. In the 40 years since, we’ve witnessed great advancements in chemotherapy administration and the advent of immunotherapies. In 2008, ONS and the American Society of Clinical Oncology developed the first national standards (https://www.ons.org/ascoons-chemotherapy-administration-safety-standards) for the safe administration of chemotherapy drugs. ONS was at the table to elevate our chemotherapy recommendations to national standards for the entire interprofessional cancer care team.
The Nominating Committee was officially renamed the Leadership Development Committee (https://www.ons.org/about-ons/ons-leadership/leadership-process#:~:text=Meet%20the%20ONS%20Leadership%20Development%20Committee&text=The%20committee's%20objectives%20are%20to,Provide%20leadership%20and%20governance%20resources) at Congress 2016, and it has continued its work to identify and mentor ONS member volunteers and leaders—likely many of you who are reading this. Each of our unique experiences and journeys adds to the constellation of oncology nurses’ courage, tenacity, and individuality. You may be beginning, continuing, or transitioning your oncology nursing journey, but no matter where you are, we need your valuable engagement as an ONS member.
The ONS Board of Directors was enthusiastically productive as we closed out 2023, reviewing position statements and white papers, prioritizing the ONS chapter model (https://voice.ons.org/news-and-views/co-creation-modernizes-ons-chapters-to-meet-member-needs), planning for the 2024 Board-sponsored ONS Congress® sessions, and more. Soon we’ll be welcoming incoming Board members at Congress and preparing for the next strategic plan.
As we begin 2024, January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Take a moment to acknowledge survivors, caregivers, providers, and all of those affected by cervical cancer. And don’t forget to register (https://www.ons.org/congress/2024/registration) to attend ONS Congress, which will be held April 24–28, 2024, in Washington, DC.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said (https://www.amazon.com/Ralph-Waldo-Emerson-Collected-Translations/dp/0940450283), “Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” When you show up authentically as the best version of yourself, you continue to positively impact oncology nursing. What that looks like is different for each of us, but make it your own.
Have a bountiful 2024!