It is the final President’s Message for 2024! What a year! MSNCB successfully launched the new credential CAVRN and reaccredited the CMSRN credential. There are many more successes from MSNCB to celebrate, but I would like to pause to recognize the outstanding contributions of Wes Foster, who is concluding his term on the board. Wes’ dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing the field of medical-surgical nursing has left a permanent mark on our organization and the countless certified medical-surgical nurses we serve.

Throughout Wes’ impressive journey, he has worn many hats, demonstrating exceptional skills and passion in each role. His commitment to mentoring others, including myself, has been instrumental in shaping the future of our board and its initiatives. I am grateful for the invaluable guidance and support Wes provided me during my own path for MSNCB.

His journey with the MSNCB began in 2007, serving on various committees that have shaped the future of specialty certification in nursing. Here’s a brief overview of his impressive contributions:

Committee Leadership and Contributions

• Item Writer Committee Member for the CMSRN examination (2007 – 2008)
• Test Development Committee Member for the CMSRN examination (2008 – 2010)
• Chair for the Item Writers and Test Developers Committees (2010 – 2014)
• Member of the MSNCB Website Task Force (January 2008 – December 2010)
• Specialty Certification Advocate - Arizona Representative (2014 – 2016)
• Chair of the Care Coordination and Transition Management Task Force in collaboration with the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing (2014 – 2016)
• Joined MSNCB (2016) and served as:
  • Secretary (2016 – 2020)
  • President Elect (2020 – 2021)
  • President (January 2022 – December 2023)
  • Immediate Past President (through December 31, 2024)
• Chair for the MSNCB Continuing Competence Task Force (2021 – 2022)
• Representative from MSNCB on the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification Board of Directors (since July 2023)

Scholarly Contributions

In addition, Wes contributed to the body of knowledge in medical-surgical nursing through writing. He authored three notable articles for the former journal, including:

• 2016: "The Value of Becoming Certified in Care Coordination and Transition Management: Optimizing Outcomes by Optimizing the Role of the Nurse" (Co-authored with Diana Harmon)
• 2012: "Preparing for Certification: Institute of Medicine The Future of Nursing Report, Lifelong Learning, and Certification"
• 2011: "Preparing for Certification: Neutropenia"

Wes’ commitment to excellence in nursing and advocacy for medical-surgical specialty certification has inspired many within the profession. He has not only led with vision but has also nurtured the next generation of nursing leaders.

MSNCB extends our deepest gratitude to Wes for his extraordinary service, dedication, and passion. His legacy will continue to guide us as we strive to elevate the standards of medical-surgical nursing and ensure the highest quality of care for our patients.

Thank you, Wes, for your leadership and for leaving a lasting impact on our organization and the nursing community. We look forward to your continued involvement and guidance as we move forward together!