Leading with Purpose: Inside LeadingAge PA’s Nurse Leadership Council
In aging services, nursing leadership is more than clinical expertise; it’s about inspiring teams, mentoring staff, and fostering a culture of compassion and excellence. Recognizing the vital role nurse leaders play in delivering high-quality care, LeadingAge PA established the Nurse Leadership Council (NLC).
“Effective leadership directly influences staff retention, clinical quality, and improved outcomes. Strong nurse leaders create a visible, trusted path forward for their teams, one that staff can follow with confidence, use for growth, and believe in for long-term success." - Pennswood Director of Health Services Jack Dempsey (Newtown, Pa.)
Fostering a Culture of Excellence
The Nurse Leadership Council is a collaborative group of experts, academics, providers, and staff committed to empowering nursing leaders by promoting excellence, innovation, and collaboration. It fosters an environment of evidence-based decision-making, ensuring high-quality care. The Council oversees a task force made up of 10 nurses spread across the commonwealth with a wide range of clinical disciplines. This task force is tasked with encouraging nurse leaders to mentor and educate staff, helping them recognize and respond to the needs of those they serve.
The Work in Action
The Nurse Leadership Taskforce focuses its work across five core areas that strengthen leadership and advance quality in aging services:
- Training and Support Programs: Researching, analyzing, and recommending leadership and evidence-based training opportunities that equip nurse leaders with the skills and confidence necessary to excel in their roles.
- Promote Evidence-Based Strategies: Identifying and adopting strategic initiatives that advance evidence-based practices to ensure the highest quality of care.
- Advocate for Program Graduates: Supporting the continued growth of individuals who complete educational programs, helping them develop as leaders and champions of exceptional nursing care.
- Supply Resources and Build Community: Providing access to critical resources and fostering a community of shared knowledge and mentorship, strengthening the nursing profession.
- Instill Pride and Reduce Stigma: Celebrating the value of nursing practice, particularly within aging services, and working to eliminate the stigma associated with caring for older adults.
“I believe this council and taskforce brings together some of the brightest and most forward-thinking leaders in our field. I’m truly excited to collaborate, learn, and contribute to meaningful work alongside such respected peers.” - Presbyterian Senior Living Vice President of Clinical Excellence Jessica Sharer (Dillsburg, Pa.)
Shaping the Future of Nursing Leadership
The Nurse Leadership Council and Taskforce reflect LeadingAge PA’s commitment to building a strong, sustainable nursing workforce for aging services. Through evidence-based practice, mentorship, and shared leadership, they prepare nurse leaders to address today’s challenges and drive improvements in care
“Nurse leaders are important to bridge organizational goals and real-world care. Investing in their growth strengthens problem-solving, reduces turnover, and builds high-performing, stable teams. Providers who develop their nurse leaders are ultimately investing in better outcomes, stronger staff retention, and a healthier workplace culture.” - Presbyterian SeniorCare Network Director of Nursing Elizabeth Miller (Oakmont, Pa.)
Learn more about Nurse Leadership and this collaborative effort to strengthen care for older adults across Pennsylvania.