UWA Association of Nursing Students 

All students enrolled in the UWA nursing program are members of the UWA Association of Nursing Students (UWA-ANS) and have a faculty adviser who provides guidance for the organization. The UWA-ANS annually elects a member to provide student representation at Curriculum Committee meetings of the faculty. This representative is invaluable in providing insight and input into matters relevant to students. The officers of the UWA-ANS are provided the opportunity to attend the annual state convention of the Alabama Association of Nursing Students (AANS). The UWA-ANS participates in organized activities that benefit the community, including Relay for Life and Toys-for-Tots. 

Founding Principles 

The National League of Nursing Core Competencies 2010 guides the mission of the UWA-ANS. We believe that teaching student nurses the value of community leadership and the significance of their involvement in professional organizations is essential to their growth within the nursing profession. 

Human Flourishing  

“Advocate for patients and families in ways that promote their self-determination, integrity and ongoing growth as human beings” 

Professional Identity 

Implement one’s role as a nurse in ways that reflect integrity, responsibility, ethical principles and an evolving identity as a nurse committed to evidence-based practice, caring, advocacy and safe, quality care for diverse patients within a family and community context. 

Spirit of Inquiry  

Examine the evidence that underlies clinical nursing practice to challenge the status quo, question underlying assumptions and offer new insights to improve quality care for patients, families and communities. 

Judgment 

Make judgments in practice substantiated with evidence, that integrate nursing science in the provision of safe, quality care and that promote the health of patient within the family and community context.