Celebrating 25 Years of Nursing Excellence: PNA-NC's Journey

Honoring Our Past

The Philippine Nurses Association of North Carolina (PNA-NC) proudly marked its 25th anniversary with a grand celebration held on June 21, 2025, at the University Club, Durham, NC. With the theme "25 Years of Excellence: Honoring the Past, Transforming the Future," the event brought together past and present leaders, members, and community partners in a jubilant gathering that honored a rich legacy and cast a bright vision for the future.

The program was gracefully hosted by emcees Reyanne Francia, BSN, RN, and Jay Libutan, BSN, RN, CNOR. The celebration commenced with an invocation by Reynaldo Cuenca, BSN, RN, CNAMB, PNA-NC Vice President, followed by stirring renditions of the Philippine and U.S. national anthems by Mariles Mushet, MSN, APRN, AGNP-C, AGCNP-BC, and Christine Malata, BSN, RN, CNOR, respectively.

President Faith Lamprea, BSN, RN, CNOR, welcomed attendees with warmth and gratitude, acknowledging the many hands that built PNA-NC over the years. Warly Remegio, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, NPD-BC, FNYAM, PNAA Eastern Region Vice President, gave the opening remarks, highlighting the chapter's enduring impact. A Silver Jubilee Message was shared via video by Dr. Chantal Howard of Duke University Hospital, while a heartfelt message of inspiration from Dr. Ernest Grant of Duke School of Nursing was read by former PNA-NC President Luisito Pascual. North Carolina House Representative Maria Cervania delivered an Empowerment Message that celebrated the contributions of Filipino nurses in healthcare and society.

The evening continued with dinner and musical serenades by Aileen Laczi, MSN, BSN, RN, CNOR, and Christine Malata, BSN, RN, CNOR. Attendees were then treated to a segment recognizing the generosity of the event sponsors and a heartfelt awarding of the PNA-NC Nursing Excellence Award.

A moving tribute was given to the past presidents of PNA-NC who were in attendance. Founding President Gabriel Sapalaran was recognized for his pioneering efforts and continued contributions to telehealth and caring science research. Other past presidents honored included Luisito Pascual, who led the organization during two terms and retired from the Durham Veterans Medical Center; Dr. Jennifer Dizon, currently serving as an Informatics Nurse Specialist at Duke; Helen Rivera and Merly Pascual, both enjoying retirement after dedicated service to surgical and veteran care respectively; Dr. Cristina Hendrix, a tenured professor at Duke University School of Nursing; Fe Praiswater, recognized for her post-anesthesia care at the Durham VA; Aileen Laczi, now a night shift charge nurse at Duke Eye Center; Florenda Asinas, recently retired from Duke’s OR team; and the current President, Faith Lamprea, a dedicated surgical nurse in the Eye Center at Duke.

The celebration also honored the founding officers of PNA-NC for laying the groundwork for the organization's legacy. These included Luisito Pascual (Founding Membership Chair), Angelita Kabigting (Founding Education Chair), Helen Rivera (Founding Auditor), Linda Zaballero (Founding Treasurer), Mauricio Aujero, Jr. (Founding VP for External Affairs), and Dr. Monette Mabolo (Founding VP for Internal Affairs). Each of them played a pivotal role in establishing a strong and enduring chapter. Their professional journeys, from OR nursing to high-level leadership in institutions like Duke and Moses Cone, are testaments to their pioneering spirit and dedication.

Additional recognition was given to current officers in attendance, including Franklin Dominno, Rosanna Engle, Fe Caballero, Ethel Cuenca, Reynaldo Cuenca, Rafael Lorenzo Nuyles, Jay Libutan, Maria Albano, Ben Valente, Doris Benzara, Grace Fabito, Teresa Azarcon, Christine Malata, and Amy Tizon. Their ongoing commitment continues to shape the chapter’s mission.

Aileen Laczi, one of the PNA-NC Former Presidents and the Current Assistant Treasurer and Membership Chair, received the prestigious PNA-NC 2025 Leadership Excellence Award for her exemplary service and leadership.

The evening concluded with the reading of the Vision of PNA-NC by Gabriel Sapalaran, Jr., followed by closing remarks from President-Elect Ethel Cuenca, BSN, RN, CAPA. The celebration culminated in joyous dancing, with PNA-NC officers leading a lively performance to "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," followed by a dance floor filled with members grooving to the beat of "September" by Earth, Wind, and Fire.

PNA-NC remains committed to honoring its legacy while continuing to uplift Filipino nurses across the state and beyond. Here's to another 25 years of excellence, impact, and transformation!.

Transforming the Future

As we honor the past, PNA-NC is also focused on the future. The healthcare landscape is continually evolving, and so are the needs of nursing professionals. Moving forward, the association plans to introduce innovative programs that emphasize leadership, advanced clinical practice, and education tailored to the needs of modern healthcare. PNA-NC recognizes the need for ongoing professional development and plans to provide its members with opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge through workshops, seminars, and mentorship.

In conclusion, the celebration of 25 years is not merely a look back at PNA-NC's accomplishments; it's an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to excellence. By honoring our past and investing in the future, PNA-NC continues to be a beacon of hope and progress for Filipino nurses in North Carolina, ensuring they are equipped for the challenges ahead.