National Nurses Week 2026 - The Power of Nurses™

In our May episode of the Beyond Nurse Residency Podcast, we celebrate National Nurses Week (May 6–12) and the impact nurses make all month long. This year is especially meaningful as the American Nurses Association marks its 130th anniversary, highlighting the theme, The Power of Nurses™.Hear real stories from three nurses at different stages of their careers through the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program. From building confidence in the first year to leading with resilience and reflecting on a decade of growth, these voices showcase the importance of support, teamwork, and lifelong learning.Listen and celebrate the lasting impact of nurses on patients, communities, and each other.GUESTS:Noelle Fjeld, RN Med/Surg Nurse, Spencer Hospital, Spencer, IowaNoelle Fjeld is a medical-surgical nurse at Spencer Hospital and a graduate of the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program. She entered nursing as a second career after working as a travel agent and spending 15 years as a preschool teacher. Now 18 months into practice, Noelle is passionate about patient connection, teamwork, and continuous learning as she grows in her role.Michelle Gelner, BSN, RN Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation, Cass County Health, Atlantic, IowaMichelle Gelner is a registered nurse, military veteran, and graduate of the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program with seven years of experience across clinical and leadership roles. She holds a degree in psychology from Luther College and served in the U.S. Army for eight years before entering nursing. Michelle began her career during the COVID-19 pandemic and has worked in OB, medical-surgical nursing, emergency care, and house supervision. She now serves as Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation at Cass County Health, where she focuses on resilience, communication, and patient advocacy.Kasey Greteman, RN, BSN Program Coordinator, QIDPKasey Greteman is a registered nurse, an Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program alum, and an experienced healthcare leader with more than a decade in nursing. Her background includes med/surg, emergency care, house supervision, and infection prevention. Kasey brings a strong focus on advocacy, evidence-based practice, and continuous improvement to her current role as program coordinator.Supporting nurses is our priority. Visit https://nursing.uiowa.edu/ionrp  to explore our resources for new graduate nurses and beyond.