Forensic Nursing Science Section News

We are looking forward to the 75th Anniversary Conference in Orlando, FL, February 13-18, 2023, and we hope to see you there. The conference theme is "Science Works," and abstracts are now being accepted. Please plan to submit your poster and oral papers for a scientific session, case break session, luncheon, or workshop. Abstracts are submitted through your AAFS portal. The final date for submissions is August 1. The Forensic Nursing Section is planning a joint session with the Engineering & Applied Sciences Section. Please contact Section Program Chair Janean Fossum (jfossum@epud.net) or Section Program Co-Chair Kelly Berishaj (berishaj@oakland.edu) with any questions.

Advancement to Member and to Fellow involves your contribution to the Academy. Serving as a moderator for the AAFS conference is an excellent way to advance. You will work collaboratively with other members to oversee a group of sessions. This includes announcing each presenter and assisting in the smooth running of the session. Training is offered at the start of the conference to orient you to the process. Please contact Kelly or Janean with any questions.

Awards are an integral part of the AAFS. The Forensic Nursing Science Section will offer two award opportunities this year — the Forensic Nursing Scientist Award and the Virginia Lynch Forensic Nurse Innovator Award.

Award Criteria for the Forensic Nursing Scientist Award: This award is given to a forensic nurse scholar who is actively engaged in advancing the science of forensic nursing. Forensic nurses nominated for this award demonstrate significant achievement in the areas of forensic nursing research development, implementation, translation, and/or dissemination. These scholarly contributions help to advance the scientific discipline of nursing and improve health and legal outcomes of patients affected by trauma, violence, and maltreatment. Click HERE for the Nomination Form.

Award Criteria for the Virginia Lynch Forensic Nurse Innovator Award: This award is given to a forensic nurse actively engaged in forensic nursing leadership, practice, service, and/or education. Forensic nurses nominated for this award demonstrate significant achievement in advancing forensic nursing through endeavors that help improve health and legal outcomes in patients affected by trauma, violence, and maltreatment. Activities include the delivery of exceptional, evidence-based, high-quality patient care; transformative leadership practices; advancement of the specialty through professional service contributions; and/or engagement in the development and delivery of quality forensic nursing education. Click HERE for the Nomination Form.

Please contact Kelly Berishaj (berishaj@oakland.edu) with any questions regarding the awards.

Membership in the Academy means building forensic nursing internationally and being able to inspire professionals. The Forensic Nursing Science Section is seeking new members. We look forward to adding new members who bring scientific contributions and ideas to our section. If you have a forensic colleague who has shown interest, encourage them to apply. Please contact Membership Chair Stacy Drake (Drakestacy718@gmail.com) for more information.