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CEO Welcome Message

Published:
August 17, 2026
Author(s):
Kathy Chappell
,
PhD, RN, FNAP, FAAN
,
Chief Executive Officer, ACEN

Welcome to the first edition of our newly redesigned ACEN newsletter, Connections !

At ACEN, we are committed to continually improving how we connect with and support the nursing education community. As the needs of our constituents evolve, so too must the ways we communicate. That commitment inspired us to reimagine our newsletter into a more dynamic, engaging, and practical resource designed specifically for the administrators, faculty, peer evaluators, and accreditation leaders who make excellence in nursing education possible.

Our new format is intended to do more than share organizational news. We want this newsletter to become a trusted source of timely accreditation insights, practical resources, and opportunities that help you navigate an ever-changing higher education landscape with confidence. Each edition will highlight important accreditation updates, provide actionable guidance, showcase ACEN educational programs and events, and celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of the remarkable individuals and institutions that strengthen our community.

Accreditation is more than a process—it is a shared commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and ultimately, better outcomes for students and the patients they will serve. We hope this newsletter reflects that spirit by fostering meaningful connections across our community, sharing stories that inspire, and recognizing the people whose dedication advances nursing education every day.

Thank you for the important work you do and for your continued partnership with ACEN. We hope you will find this new publication informative, valuable, and engaging, and we invite you to share your ideas and feedback as we continue to refine it to best serve your needs.

Thank you for being an essential part of the ACEN community.

Warm regards,

Kathy Chappell, PhD, RN, FNAP, FAAN
Chief Executive Officer
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Published:
August 17, 2026
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