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A History of the Iowa Nurses Association
1904-2004
1904-1907 R. Estella Campbell
In January of 1904 officers of local nurse's organizations met and made plans to hold their first convention in June in Davenport, Iowa. A resolution was adopted, "That a State Association of Graduate Nurses be formed, for the purpose of improving the profession and securing state registration of nurses." Miss Campbell attended the National Associated Alumnae Convention in 1905, and was so enthusiastic about the need to belong to the national effort that she persuaded the new Iowa State Association of Registered Nurses to join the forerunner of the American Nurses Association in 1906. Miss Campbell led the discussion to prepare a bill for the Iowa General Assembly that required the registration of all nurses in the state and established a Board of Nursing. There was a need to distinguish "graduate nurses" from others who used the title "nurse". There were 29 individuals who signed the first Constitution at the First Annual Meeting in Davenport. In spite of strong effort to have an independent board, the Board of Nursing was established under the Board of Health in 1907 1907 was the enactment of the first licensure bill for Registered Nurses. 1908-1909 Alice B. Slaughter
April 27, 1909 Articles of Incorporation were adopted for the purpose of forming a corporation not for pecuniary profit under the laws of Iowa by Jane Garrod, Ida Neff and Anna Killeen for the Iowa State Association of Registered Nurses. Discussed inspection of schools and establish standards of education, "no school would be of recognized standing unless attached to a general hospital and having a three year course." Boarded a boat at the state convention in Dubuque and went on to Minneapolis for the American Nurses Association convention.
1909 Jane Garrod
Women's suffrage and interest in activities at the national level were of high concern. The Iowa association worked with national leaders on improving conditions for the poor. They advocated for a nurse in every almshouse (county home).
1910-1911 Anna Goodale
Efforts were focused on strengthening the state law to achieve compulsory registration On account of low funds from nurse examinations, it was necessary to subsidize nurse members of the Iowa Board of Nursing from treasury funds of the Iowa State Association of Registered Nurses. A campaign was started to improve education in schools of nursing to include: 1) an RN training school inspector, who had graduated from a minimum of a two year course and had specialized study, (2) a curriculum of at least three years of study, 3) not more than 50 hours of duty per nurse and 4) adequate living quarters and classrooms for students. The first official Registry report was given. An individual had to graduate from a recognized school to be on the Registry and be available for private duty nursing.
1912-1913 Millicent Schaar-Lincoln
1912 The state association started a relief fund for contributions to the Red Cross. This Red Cross relief fund continued until 1932.
1914-15 Martha Oaks-Kennedy
Increased activity to achieve universal registration laws. The organization discussed broader reciprocity between the states for nurses.
1916-1918 Ann Jones-Atwood
Work was conducted during 1918 and 1919 for the Association under a new plan of organization; graduate nurses automatically became members of the district, state and national organizations. A "survey" of nurses to determine who would be eligible for service in the Red Cross Nursing Service was completed. Results of the survey showed that there were 54 accredited schools of nursing in Iowa with the total number of graduate (registered) nurses at 3,275. A recruitment tour of these schools was done to find Iowa's quota of 416 nurses; 556 signed on for service in World War I. Publication of the first periodical "Registered Nurses Record" Public Health Nursing section was established in 1916.
1919-1921 Mary C. Haarer
Increased standards for examining, accrediting and standardizing schools of nursing education. New Articles of Incorporation were signed February 21, 1920 putting in place the new plan of organization. 1919 the Private Duty section was established. The Bordeaux Memorial Fund was established to honor nurses who had died in France during World War I.
1922-23 Amy Beers
The national Goldmark Report called for nationwide improvement in schools of nursing and standardization of curriculum. The name of the publication was changed to the "Bulletin" and issued three to four times a year.
1924-25 Ada Hershey
President Hershey and five other members attended the International Congress of Nurses in Helsingfors, Finland.
1926-27 Nelle Morris
1926 Iowa joins the Midwest Division of ANA to serve nurses of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
1928-29 Winifred Boston
A goal since 1904 was accomplished with the hiring of an educational director for the inspection of schools. An Advisory Committee was established to correlate and facilitate the work of the Board of Nurse Examiners, Directors of Schools of Nursing Education, and The Iowa State Association of Registered Nurses.
1930 Grace Van Evera
The position of President- Elect was established; Clara Craine was the first person elected to serve one year as President -Elect and one year as President.
1931 - 1932 Clara Craine
The Nurse Placement Service opens September, 1931, under auspices of the Midwest Division of ANA. The Iowa State Association of Registered Nurses (I.S.A.R.N) publishes and offers for sale: Historical Outline of the Iowa State Association of Registered Nurses by Emma C. Wilson. Office Nurses forum was established in 1931.
1932 - 1933 Wavie Stiles
Concern is expressed that too many students are being admitted. The Director of Nursing Education (Board of Nursing) reports a decrease of 509 in past two years. In the past four years schools decrease by 20.
1933 - 1934 Molanda Silzer
The convention program includes a symposium on "Unemployment of nurses - What the training school, hospital, physician, and nurse can do about it." The ISARN Bulletin for September, 1933, Reprints the ANA statement on the application and implications of the National Recovery Act to and for the nursing profession.
1934 - 1935 Millie Jacobsen
Through state, district and local committees, the I.S.A.R.N. cooperates in carrying out the Iowa State Emergency Relief Administration Program. 151 nurses were placed in civil works positions in projects in tax supported institutions; 57 private duty nurses in hospitals, Board of Control institutions and county homes; 7 qualified public health nurses placed on duty; and 87 private duty nurses in public health nursing projects under supervision.
1935 - 1936 Myrtle McAhren
ISARN achieves success in sponsoring legislation to amend the Nurse Practice Act which provides that (1) Nurses connected with schools may be members of the Board; (2) The Governor "Shall" (instead of "May") make appointments from the list forwarded by ISARN; (3) There shall be an Executive Director employed by the Board; (4) All fees collected for examination and licenses of nurses will be placed in a "Nurses Fund" which is at the disposal of the Board for salaries and other expenses.
1936 - 1937 Sara O'Neill
ISARN publishes two articles of historical significance in the Bulletin: :Public health Provisions in the Social Security Act: by Pearl McIver and "The Social Security Act - Proposed Plan of Operation in Iowa" by Walter L. Bierring, M.D., Commissioner of Health.
1937 - 1938 Alma E. Hartz
The Board of Directors considers a headquarters office and the need for an Executive Director. The President in her convention address states "Overproduction and unemployment are no longer problems in this state as they were five years ago. The 8 hour day is well established in many areas and working conditions are improved."
1938 - 1939 Nellie Holmes
The Iowa Inter-Professional Association is organized and ISARN hosts the first meeting in conjunction with the Annual Convention, October 1938, in Waterloo.
1939 - 1940 Marianne Zichy
Trends Noted in the President's Address:
Legislation - An attorney is retained to assist in planning, ANA favors licensing all who nurse for hire.
Registries- Six approved in Iowa - How can they be strengthened?
Recruitment - I.S.A.R.N. aids in national effort. Prints I.S.A.R.N. aids in national recruitment
pamphlets to be distributed in high schools.
State Organization for Public Health Nursing - Should one be formed?
American Red Cross- "In these turbulent days it is even more important than usual for all nurses to enlist."
1940 - 1941 Stella Scott
Resolution at National Convention, Philadelphia, 1940, sent to President Roosevelt "Whereas this is a time of unusual anxiety and concern to this nation, and of grave responsibility to the President of the U.S., Therefore be it resolved that we, the delegates of the American Nurses' Association and the National League of Nursing Education, now assembled in Philadelphia, wish to offer the strength and support of our organizations in any nursing activity in which we can be of service to our country."
1941 - 1942 Edith Countryman
From President's Message:
"We must face a preparedness program whether we believe in war or not. The fact is that hospitals need nurses, the Navy needs nurses, and public health agencies in counties and cities need nurses. The cooperation of all Iowa Nurses is of utmost importance. Our aims are clear. We must help to relieve suffering and assist in health promotion."
1942 - 1943 Bertha Harvey
"Iowa Nurses Accept the Challenge" - The 39th Annual convention theme. Convention limited to two days because of war conditions. All nurses not in service have assumed additional duties on the home front. State Council for War Service is established.
1943 - 1944 Grace K. Haven
National re-survey of nurse power launched by U.S. Public Health Service, Mercedes Lind appointed state agent to direct survey. First I.S.A.R.N. headquarters opened at 503 Shops Building, Des Moines, Iowa, January 1943. Adeline Hendricks began her work as general secretary March 15, 1943. The President urges recruitment of students. The goal (for the United States) is 55,000 new students in nursing this year.
1944 - 1946 Vivian Walkup
1945 - Bill introduced in congress to draft nurses. ANA endorses the principle of a draft of nurses as a first step to selective service of all women. The increase in enlistments through recruitment of nurses by the Red Cross, the nurse's procurement and assignment service and an ANA Campaign stopped action on bill. "It was the combined efforts of nurses, everywhere, which kept the bill from becoming law." State placement and counseling service established.
1946 - 1947 Mary M. Fitzpatrick
Bylaws revision changes the name of the association to the Iowa State Nurses' Association (ISNA). In April 1947, I.S.N.A. notifies all employers that the recommended base salary for nurses is $175.00 per month and the work week is 44 hours. At the 43rd convention the House of Delegates adopts the ten point of the 1946 ANA platform and passes an 11th point - The I.S.A.R.N. take steps to become the collective bargaining agent for nurses in Iowa.
1947 - 1948 Marie Neuschaefer
The bill to amend the Nurse Practice Act which would license practical nurses dies in committee. ANA House of Delegates meeting in Chicago May 1948, votes in favor of having one organization.
1948 - 1949 Sister Mary Brigid, R.S.M.
With approval of I.S.N.A. Board, the President calls a meeting in December 1948, of representatives of the I.H.A., I.M.A., I.M.A Auxiliary and prominent lay people "to establish rapport and to get people to think about what should be done in nursing." 1949 - The amendment to the Nurse Practice Act, initiated and sponsored by I.S.N.A., to license practical nurses is passed. The Brown report "Nursing for the Future" is a principal topic for the 46th Convention.
1949 - 1951 Wilhelmina Scott
The ANA 1950 House of Delegates changes its position and favors two organizations. The state polio planning committee is organized to plan for meeting the epidemic; polio nursing committees are set up in counties and every nurse is urged to help. A survey of nursing needs and resources is undertaken by ISNA, ISLN, and IOPHN with the cooperation of the Iowa Board of Nurse Examiners, IHA and the State Department of Health. 1951 - 1955 Sister Mary Barbara Ann, R.S.M.
Survey of Nursing News and Resources in Iowa completed. The historic biennial (1952) and the last for NLNE and NOPHN is held in Atlantic City. ANA is reorganized and the National League for Nursing created. 1953 - Golden Anniversary Convention held in Waterloo.
1955 - House of Delegates votes "That preparation for provision of mandatory licensure and complete revision of the Nurse Practice Act be undertaken."
1955 - 1957 Geraldine Busse
ISNA and district sections work on defining functions, standards, and qualifications for nursing practice. The Iowa State Nurses Association becomes the Iowa Nurses Association - INA. Preliminary report of ANA studies of Nursing Functions entitled "Nurses Invest in Patient Care" is released at 1956 ANA Convention. Nurses through $1.00 a member assessment and dues increase invested $400,000 in this research.
1957 - 1960 Marian Van Fossen
The INA bulletin wins the 1958 National Award of the American Journal of Nursing Company's competition for State Association bulletins for the Best Feature Article. (The winning article was by Marian Olson - "Research in Nursing Service.") The INA Bulletin also won the 1956 award for general excellence. Project '60 launched in February 1960. Main objectives to find out what districts need by way of assistance from headquarters and to test methods of giving assistance. District 8 selected for project. INA Executive Director employed to work in district full time.
1960 - 1963 Marion Patch
Bylaws revisions bring significant changes: 1) Four directors are to be selected - One from each geographic area (NE, SE, SW, NW) as officers on he Board; 2) District Presidents will no longer serve on the Board; 3) Delegates to ANA Convention will be elected. (The latter made necessary by national labor legislation - The Landrum Griffin Act) Legislative goal of revision of Nurse Practice Act set four years ago is accomplished. Initial strong opposition from Iowa Medical Society and Iowa Hospital Association, made compromises necessary. Definition of nursing updated. Mandatory licensure established.
1963 - 1964 Sister Mary Timothea, R.S.M. (Resigned August 14,1964)
The INA Building Fund is established at the 1963 Convention and authority given to Board of Directors to purchase land for a headquarters building. At the May 1964 Board meeting, Sister Mary Timothea asked the Vice President to preside in order that she could move that the Housing Committee should proceed with the purchase of property at 3302 - 3306 University Avenue, Des Moines.
1964 (August) - 1967 Virginia Galbreath
A down payment of $21,000 is made on the site for INA headquarters but change in zoning ordinances will not permit building at 3302 - 3306 University Avenue. 1966 bylaws revisions return Presidents of Districts to INA Board. Area-Director positions abolished. Through INA Professional Security Program and assistance from consultant and ANA; V.A. Nurses in Des Moines win bargaining rights - A First - Opening the way to collective bargaining for all V.A. Nurses in the nation.
1967 - 1971 Edith Ruppert
The membership was divided over the issue of collective bargaining. Edith Ruppert provided the leadership and dedication necessary to preserve the Association as a viable professional organization for Iowa nurses. She demonstrated her belief that regardless of differences, nurses must remain a strong collective unit and be represented by the professional organization. The property purchased for INA Headquarters is sold - Action necessitated not only by zoning changes, but by financial problems and inability to undertake a building program. Funds from sale were used in part to cover debts incurred in extensive professional security program in 1966 - 67. Clinical conference groups replace sections to facilitate meeting the needs of practicing nurses. Improved relationships with Iowa Hospital Association result from efforts of officers.
1971 - 1973 Marilyn Russell
The task force appointed in 1970 to study the organization completed its work. Recommend: No change in organization; implementation of continuing education plan; increased written communication to members; program of information on nurses individual resp0onsibility; orientation program. Duane Lodge hired as Executive Director. 1973 bylaws revision creates continuing education review panel and a voluntary system of recording CEU's. The Iowa Nurses Foundation Established.
1973 - 1977 Annette Scheffel
Again, the INA sponsors legislation to amend the Nurse Practice Act to reflect increased responsibility and autonomy in practice. Nursing is redefined to include nursing diagnosis. The Iowa Board of Nursing given authority to revoke and suspend licenses. INA goes on record favoring mandatory continuing education as a requirement for relicensure. Attempt to obtain independent legislation fails. Bill covering all licensed occupations and professionals becomes law in 1977. INA seeks opportunities for involvement in formulation of rules under which law will be implemented.
1977-1981 Mary Moser
The Association struggled with decreasing membership, and dire financial situation. Actions were taken to address shortfall. Kay Myers was newly employed as Executive Director. The collective bargaining arm was separated structurally and some membership growth occurred. The Midwest group of state associations within ANA was very active during this period and began to assert it's influence within ANA. The office continued on Walnut Street and there was exploration of a move out of downtown but no action was taken. Our legislative program was active in influencing rules for the mandatory continuing educations. Legislative Day for nurses and students was a growing activity. By rule, the legislature removed the section that required BON appointees be selected from a list submitted by the Iowa Nurses Association which had been previous practice (since 1907).
1981-1985 Marcene Moran
The Board of Directors established a task force to study ANA/INA position on entry level into practice. The Association endorsed development of a political action committee for the purpose of promoting INA legislative objectives. With approval of the Position Paper on Third Party Reimbursement, the Board endorsed the enactment of legislation to procure direct payment for nurses in Iowa.
1985-1987 Kathryn Schweer
Continued to inform Iowa nurses about Entry Into Practice by holding forums around the state. Adopted a new INA logo and took steps to upgrade INA publications and present a "new" image of the Association. Supported the Iowa Board of Nursing's efforts to upgrade requirements for nurse educators to a minimum of a master's degree in nursing. Association office moved to First and Court in Des Moines.
1987-1989 Coy Baker
Worked on Entry into Practice as well as scope of practice, model legislation and the forecasted nursing shortage due to decreasing enrollments. First Iowa Nurse Reporter published in an effort to increase communication between INA and potential members. Hired Joanne Kennebeck as the executive director. The highest elected office held in the United States for a nurse; Lieutenant Governor, Jo Ann Zimmerman is elected to office.
1989- 1993 Ellen Strachota
Worked toward prescriptive privileges for advanced registered nurse Practitioners; and at the national level to get reimbursement in Medicare for Advanced Practice Nurses. Hired Mary Wherry as executive director. Association offices moved to current location at 1501 42nd Street in West Des Moines, before the flood of Summer, 1993 inundated the former Court Street office. Continued to work on being the collective bargaining agent for nurses who wished to unionize in the state of Iowa. Iowa Tricouncil formed to focus on speaking in one voice for nurses in the state.
1993- 1995 Rosemary Holland
Advanced registered nurse practitioners achieved prescriptive authority in Iowa Legislature. Continued efforts with collective bargaining and obtained national support for the state work. Hired Linda Goeldner as new executive director.
1995-1999 Judith Collins
Tri Council was transformed into the Iowa Council of Nurses. Federal legislation is adopted for direct Medicare reimbursement of advanced practice nurses. Conducted educational programs on a Nurse Licensure Compact with the Board of Nursing. Initiated groundwork to transform INA from 15 Districts to five Regions. INA initiates a website.
1999-2003 LaVone Sopher
Iowa adopts the Nurse Licensure Compact and Iowa is one of the first states to pass such legislation. Repealed restrictive language on the practice of certified nurse midwives. Established an unfunded state Nurse Scholarship and Loan Repayment Program. Assured RN supervision of EMS providers in non-acute settings. The first nurse Director of the Department of Public Health, Mary Mincer Hansen is appointed by Governor Vilsack. Governor Vilsack authorizes to the federal government that Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists to practice without physician supervision. Bylaws revisions restructured INA from 15 districts into 5 regions. All members attending the annual meeting (convention) are allowed to vote. Work of Iowa Council of Nurses initiates a review of nursing shortage which leads to a Governor's Task Force on the Nursing Shortage and Senator Harkin obtaining federal funds to form an Iowa Center for Workforce Planning in the Department of Public Health. At the national level, ANA began extensive examination of its structure and vision for the future. Creation of the UAN (United American Nurses) for members belonging to collective bargaining units, and CAN (Center for American Nurses).
2003-present Karol Joenks
Advanced registered nurse practitioners became recognized as Medicaid primary care providers.
Efforts begin by the Iowa Nurses Foundation to create an endowment for scholarships for the highest nursing shortage-the nursing faculty shortage.