Published July 27, 2022 
Changes at ASPR: Secretary Becerra Elevates Office that Handles Preparedness and Response Efforts
On July 22, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra elevated the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response to an operating division within the Department under the new name: Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). As a standalone agency within HHS, ASPR will now have the capabilities to mobilize and coordinate national responses efforts more effectively. ASPR’s Assistant Secretary Dawn O’Connell will continue her leadership role and serve as the head of the new agency. To read more, click here.
AACN Hosts Webinar on Gun Violence Research
On July 20, AACN hosted a webinar titled, “Gun Violence: A National Priority for Nurse Researchers.” The webinar was attended by more than 150 individuals and was moderated by Government Affairs Committee Chair Angela Amar. Dr. Amar was joined by a panel of national nursing experts, including Dr. Therese Richmond and Dr. Sara Jacoby from the University of Pennsylvania; Dr. Jacquelyn Campbell from Johns Hopkins University; and Dr. Shalanda Bynum from the National Institute of Nursing Research. Panelists discussed the prevalence of gun violence in our nation and examined factors that put individuals at risk. During the conversation, speakers emphasized the importance of nurse-led research on firearm injury and prevention.
Additionally, Dr. Bynum announced the launch of NINR’s 2022–2026 Strategic Plan and highlighted funding opportunities available to nurse researchers. To read more, click here.
AACN Attends Virtual Event on Mental Health
On July 20, AACN attended an Axios webinar focused on addressing America’s mental health crisis. The event featured conversations with Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, and Dr. Allison Arwady, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health. Dr. Murphy discussed the profound physical and mental effects of gun violence on communities, in addition to the mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. To watch the webinar, click here.
