Kathy Howe, AAN Executive Director, celebrates more than 10,000 AAN members. (Supplied)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Inaugural conference in Calgary: May 2023

Alberta Association of Nurses gains 10,000 members in first eight months

Jan 16, 2023 | 4:11 PM

The Alberta Association of Nurses (AAN) says they are celebrating a significant milestone after reaching 10,000 members less than eight months following their launch.

AAN launched in May 2022 as the first province-wide, profession-inclusive association for nurses throughout Alberta.

With a mandate to enhance, promote and advocate on behalf of all nurses, AAN represents future, current and retired Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) across the province.

As of January 2023, the organization says members from more than 500 cities, towns and counties throughout the province have become part of the association.

“Over the last eight months, we have connected more than 10,000 nursing professionals with tools and services to help them achieve professional excellence,” said AAN’s Executive Director, Kathy Howe.

Last seen Nov. 28

Missing: Jimmy Eagle, 27, of Maskwacis

Dec 14, 2025

the situation is dire

Two deaths, possibly from cold exposure, raise alarm amid Red Deer shelter situation and plight of homeless community

Dec 12, 2025

Lace-'Em Up!

Red Deer's outdoor rinks returning for another season

Dec 12, 2025

“Whether you’re an LPN, NP, RPN, RN, nursing student and retired nurse, you belong here. We’re on a mission to advocate for all nurses with one, unified voice and help build a brighter future for healthcare in Alberta. AAN has been an advocate on a variety of topics, including nursing shortages, nursing program requirements, internationally educated nurses and classification change for LPNs.”

This year, AAN says they will expand their tools and services for Alberta nurses with its inaugural annual conference taking place May 4-5 in Calgary. They say the conference, called ‘Spark 2023: Igniting Together’, focuses on igniting inspiration, motivation and celebration for Alberta nurses.

Officials note the two-day, in-person conference is anticipated to welcome more than 500 Alberta-based nurses to attend keynote presentations from pioneers in the healthcare industry, hands-on breakout sessions and networking opportunities.

“As the Alberta association for nurses, by nurses, we’re seeing the urge for a voice that helps advocate for the nursing profession and collective wellbeing. Through ‘Spark 2023: Igniting Together’, participants can expect to hear from industry leaders, reflect on the state of nursing in Canada and connect with likeminded people from across the province,” said Howe.

AAN says the conference is open to all future, current and retired Alberta nurses, regardless of AAN membership status, and tickets can be purchased on their website. For AAN members, a discounted ticket price is available.