Beyond Competencies: Understanding the 2026 AONL Framework for Leadership Excellence

Description

For more than two decades, AONL's leadership competencies have guided the development of nurse leaders across the continuum of care. In response to the growing complexity of healthcare and evolving leadership expectations, AONL introduced a refreshed Nurse Leader Competency Framework in March 2026. Join members of the AONL Competency Task Force for an engaging discussion of the framework's evolution, current state, and future direction. Participants will gain insight into the updated competency domains, competency statements, and core leadership behaviors which exemplify leadership effectiveness across nursing roles and settings. The panel will also preview the next phase of the framework, which will introduce Functional Developing and Competent behavioral indicators for each competency statement that demonstrate how leadership capabilities progress from nurse manager to chief nurse executive leadership roles. These role-based behaviors will provide a practical roadmap for professional growth, succession planning, performance development, and leadership excellence. Featured panelists include Competency Task Force Co-Chairs and AONL Board Members Dr. Marie Prothero and Dr. Tera Gross, alongside Task Force members Dr. Sue Weaver and Dr. Douglas Dacenzo, who will share perspectives on the future of nurse leadership and competency-based development.