Aloha and welcome to 2024 with the Hawaii Chapter of the Oncology Nursing Society!
This year holds great potential for our members and the oncology community. We have several new additions to the Board of Directors, and a great selection of engagement opportunities.
I’m excited to be embarking on my term as President of the Board. I’ve been a long-time member of the ONS and the former Treasurer. I have been a long-time member of the ONS Conference planning committee and am myself a former Mana’Olana Award Recipient. My experience has shown me what value the Hawaii ONS chapter brings to the community, and on behalf of the Board of Directors, we are excited to continue the work of supporting our local oncology nurses and patients.
Joining me this year are new board members Ali Alfaro (Treasurer), Diane Bolosan (Secretary) and Carl Pitre (Director-at-Large, Oahu). We are fortunate to have continuing their service, Carrie Hovland (Director-at-Large, Kauai), Julie Leach (Director-at-Large, Hawaii Island), Rachel Thelen (Director-at-Large, Maui), Kristen Thompson (Director-at-Large, Oahu), Lori Conley (Past President/Dinner Programs) and Stephanie Guy (Nominations). We also have a few nominated positions, Tara Vaughn (Web Master/Social Media), Carol Kotsubo (Archivist) and Julie Sestak (Dinner Programs). This is the group that makes ONS Hawaii work!
Each year the ONS works hard to offer a comprehensive selection of events to enrich and grow our membership. This year we are glad to be offering multiple educational dinners and continuing education (CE) options. Another welcome addition to our schedule will be Oncology Advance Practice Provider focused dinners to engage our oncology APRN community. The pinnacle of our calendar of events, as it has been in the past, is the annual ONS Conference, to be held at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko’ Olina. This year’s conference will be filled with presentations from thought leaders from around the country and from our local community. It also gives us all the chance to interact with our industry supporters.
Growing our membership is something we on the board are all committed to. ONS membership indicates a commitment to being a true oncology professional. Please connect with us! Reach out to the board and other members to let us know how we can serve you. And let those new to the islands know about this wonderful group of dedicated oncology professionals. We look forward to working with you all and advancing oncology nursing throughout the islands.
Thank you and Aloha,
Dee Ann Omatsu, MS, APRN, PNP-BC, AGNP-BC, CPON, AOCNP
President, ONS Hawaii Chapter