The American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) CEO and President, Tracey Moorhead, took the stage at the AAPACN 2025 Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, to deliver the annual CEO address to a packed room of dedicated post-acute care professionals. In her opening remarks, Moorhead welcomed attendees to the city of Louisville and set the tone for a conference focused on innovation, leadership, and the shared commitment to enhancing the quality of resident care.
Celebrating Record-Breaking Growth and Impact
Moorhead began by celebrating AAPACN’s many accomplishments over the past year. Membership reached a new record, surpassing 20,000 members, which is clear evidence of the growing value and impact of AAPACN’s community, education, and resources. In 2024 alone, 1,746 individuals earned an AAPACN certification, further strengthening the clinical and operational excellence of post-acute care teams nationwide.
In 2024, AAPACN also expanded its support tools with the launch of three new resources:
These offerings are designed to address key challenges and enhance operational success in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).
Meeting Challenges with Innovative Solutions
Moorhead acknowledged the ongoing pressures facing the profession, from regulatory uncertainties to workforce shortages and financial strain. However, she emphasized that it is in times of challenge that true leadership emerges and that AAPACN is not just responding but driving forward with solutions.
Moorhead announced a new Quality Improvement Pilot Program, supported by AAPACN’s Board of Directors, in collaboration with five Illinois facilities on the CMS Special Focus Facility Candidate List. Since July 1, 2024, these facilities have received free access to AAPACN educational tools and required staff to pursue certification. This 24-month research project will evaluate how AAPACN’s support can improve outcomes, even in the lowest-rated SNFs.
Fueling the Future
Supporting professional growth remains central to AAPACN’s mission. Through a new partnership with Chamberlain University and Walden University, AAPACN members now have access to discounts on nursing education. This collaboration offers a pathway for nurses to advance their education and careers, an essential step toward strengthening the future of post-acute care.
Moorhead also previewed upcoming initiatives, including a new strategic plan currently in development. Members were encouraged to provide input via a survey in the conference app to help shape the future direction of the organization.
Additionally, The Executive Playbook: Navigating Risk and Finance webinar series, which launched May 14, offers expert insights for post-acute care leaders on risk mitigation and financial strategy. This fall, AAPACN will also host another Quality Virtual Conference, continuing its tradition of delivering timely, actionable education.
Supporting the Next Generation Through the AAPACN Education Foundation
Moorhead concluded by shining a spotlight on the AAPACN Education Foundation. This year, four dedicated nurses are advancing their careers thanks to scholarships made possible by the Foundation.
Also, during the conference, AAPACN set out to raise $4,000 to fund a full scholarship for a future nurse leader in 2026. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of conference attendees, AAPACN exceeded that goal, raising a total of $6,953.25 for the Foundation. These funds will directly support the professional advancement of nurses committed to delivering quality care in post-acute settings.
Moving Forward Together
As AAPACN looks to the future, one thing is clear: we are stronger when we move forward together. With the continued leadership of members, business partners, and certified professionals, AAPACN will continue to be a driving force in advancing quality, innovation, and excellence across the post-acute care landscape.