Reflecting on Our Journey

In 1990, pediatric nurses sought a dedicated space for connection, support, and professional advancement. SPN was created to fill that need. Following our founding, SPN hosted the first Annual Conference in March of 1991 in Washington DC titled “Nursing Care of the Hospitalized Child.” Over the past three and a half decades, SPN has accomplished many important milestones including partnering with the Journal of Pediatric Nursing as the official publication of SPN in 2001, releasing the Pediatric Nursing Certification Review in 2006, becoming an American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) provider unit in 2015, and launching the Transition to Practice Fellowship in 2018. 

Reaching these milestones has allowed us to grow into the premier organization for pediatric nurses, offering educational resources, professional growth opportunities, and a network that strengthens our community. 

Celebrating Our Progress

As we mark our 35th anniversary, we celebrate the progress we’ve made in the pediatric nursing field. Through SPN’s work, we’ve seen incredible advancements in patient care, specialized training, and advocacy. What began as a small group is now a dynamic network that continues to empower pediatric nurses to make a lasting impact on children’s health.

The celebration continues all year long but the party will be s in Anaheim this April 29 - May 2 as over 700 pediatric nurses gather for the SPN 35th Annual Conference. With dedicated networking time, an expansive exhibit hall, and an educational agenda designed to elevate understanding and skill, this event will serve as the gateway toward a brighter future. 

Looking Forward

As we celebrate our past, we also look optimistically to the future. The practice of pediatric nursing will continue to evolve, and so will SPN. Our mission remains steadfast: to support pediatric nurses in their professional development, advocate for children’s health, and lead the way in advancing pediatric care.

We are excited to continue working with our members to shape the future of pediatric nursing, embracing new challenges, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring that every pediatric nurse feels empowered to make a difference

Share Your Memories

Over the years, SPN has been a place where lifelong friendships have been made, professional skills have been honed, and memories have been created. So, we would be remiss to celebrate this milestone without incorporating your stories and reflections.

We invite you to share photos and memories from your time as a member of SPN. Whether it's a picture from an early conference or your first conference badge, a moment of professional achievement, or a simple snapshot of your time connecting with fellow nurses, we want to celebrate the people who have made SPN what it is today.

Help SPN create a collection that honors the past 35 years and looks ahead to the future! Please send SPN your photos and memories at [email protected]. Please note that by sending your photos and stories, you consent to having them shared on SPN’s social media and during Annual Conference programming.