BREAKTHROUGH TO NURSING (BTN) COMMITTEE

(From NSNA®) “Breakthrough to Nursing® (BTN) is NSNA’s® project to increase the number and diversity of students choosing nursing as a career. The project was established because of NSNA’s® concern over the inadequacy of health care delivery to minority group members and the lack of minority group health care providers. The objectives of the project are to promote career opportunities in nursing, with a focus on substantially increasing the number of students from groups who traditionally have been underrepresented in nursing. The project has been supported by NSNA since 1965. Its effectiveness seems due, in part, to the peer relationship that can be established between nursing students and minority group elementary, middle and high school students. In addition, through the Foundation of the NSNA, scholarship support is available for diverse nursing students to increase the number of registered nurses from ethnic minorities in the profession.

BTN also teaches nursing students to be culturally competent in their care of all patients. Resolutions passed by the NSNA House of Delegates has expanded the Project to include the recruitment of students from all underrepresented populations.” In alignment with the updated 2026 FNSA Bylaws and the directive of the 2025 FNSA House of Delegates, this committee is currently transitioning to blend its operations with the Membership Committee to create a more unified approach to student outreach and advocacy.

Committee chairs appointed by the FNSA President following the annual state convention. Their appointment continues for one year. Committee members are welcome to apply here at any time following the annual state convention. Their appointment continues for one year or up to six months following graduation.
This program targets non-traditional students, such as males, second-career individuals, minorities, etc. to encourage them to choose nursing. Committee members are responsible for mentoring these non-traditional students and educating them about preparing for the initial licensure as registered nurses. Committee members are expected to work with FNSA and the committee on events and provide updates to the FNSA Executive Board. They are also tasked with initiating an exchange of ideas and information regarding ways to advocate for high quality care, utilizing the principles of transcultural nursing through the following pathways:
Organize, represent, and mentor students preparing for initial licensure as registered nursed enrolled in baccalaureate completion programs, in becoming practitioners sensitive to the cultural diversity that exists in our society
- Promoting the development of the skills needed to be responsible, accountable members of the nursing profession who respect he differences and similarities between people
- Advocating for high quality care, utilizing the principles of transcultural nursing
- Facilitating the development of peer support systems, which enhance recruitment and retention within the nursing profession.
FNSA Bylaws - Article VII, Section 5
SECTION 5. The Committee on Breakthrough to Nursing (BTN) shall:
1. Be chaired by a Regional Director appointed to the position by the President and approved by the Executive Board at the post-convention Executive Board meeting.
2. Encourage each chapter to participate in the BTN project on the local level.
3. Initiate an exchange of ideas and information regarding BTN among NSNA, FNSA and local chapters.
4. Perform all other duties pertaining to the office.
- Visit your local high schools, skill centers, technical schools, vocational centers,, and local career fairs to promote the development of the skills needed to be responsible members of the nursing profession who respect the differences between people
- Offer high school career days.
- Become mentors to potential students. Provide “shadow” opportunities for them.
- Go to community agencies and assist with existing projects.
- Network with Social Service agencies. Examples: Health Department, Good Will Industries, Self Sufficiency Centers, Harbor House, YMCA, and YWCA.
- Recruit “second-career” people into nursing by going to business career days.
- Go to skilled centers give information about nursing as a career. Target Certified Nursing Assistants, Home Health Aides, and Medical Assistants etc.
- Purchase coloring books for elementary school children on various web sites that explain and promote a positive image of nursing.
- Take children or prospective students on tours of local hospitals.