In April 2026 I was honored to be inducted as the 12th president of PNAO. We welcome the new officers and board members:

Leeza Stalcup, President Elect Audrey Godoy, Secretary Jennifer Rosales, Treasurer Kim Miranda, Auditor Ivi Barcelona, Board Member Jocelyn Butler, Board Member Rachael McDonald, Board Member Lucy Todl, Board Member Evelyn Watson, Board Member ‍ ‍

We have a busy and ambitious schedule for the next two years. But more importantly, we want to put you, the members, at the top of the list. Email, text, FB message us. The association is here to serve its members and its community. What’s in it for you as a member? You tell us. Volunteerism, sharing your expertise though mentoring or educating other nurses, socializing, networking, support through difficult life events or difficult career decisions, academic or work burn-out? We’re here for you.

I would be remiss not to recognize our outgoing president, Dr. Maricar Gomez. Under the 2024-2026 leadership of Maricar, PNAO increased visibility and hosted the North Central Regional Conference of the Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA). As a new member just four years ago, Maricar has embraced the association’s mission and served as the Circle of Presidents Regional Representative and is now the national Secretary. All this was accomplished while earning her doctorate and getting married. Many big life events. Kudos to Maricar! 

Rose Ferguson, BSN, RN, CGRN
PNAO President 2026-2028

Our Organization

Philippine Nurses Association of Ohio (PNAO) was created in 1992 by Alicia Anloague Tupaz for the basic goal of comradery and support for the Filipino nurses in Ohio. Alicia had connections in place with Philippine Nurses Association of America, Inc (PNAA) and wanted an Ohio chapter to help carry out the PNAA missions.

PNAO welcomes nurses and student nurses of all ethnicities. We believe that every member has relevant knowledge and experience to share and to give back to the community. We value each member as an individual regardless of their heritage and welcome the power of diversity.

PNAO is actively seeking to partner with hospitals, long-term care facilities, allied health agencies/organizations, universities, colleges, and schools.

As an individual member or as an organizational partner, you will be a critical part of the team helping to accomplish our goals:

· Promoting nursing activities in our area and across Ohio that advance healthcare initiatives for best patient outcomes.

· Networking with professional organizations and agencies to develop and provide educational programs relevant to nursing practice, education, and research.

· Monitoring and advocating for or against legislative activity that affects healthcare and nursing practice.

· Providing community service opportunities in targeted areas of need in Northeast Ohio and/or in the Philippines.

· Providing focused research endeavors that are meaningful to the population in Northeast Ohio and/or to the Filipino-Americans.

Upcoming events

  • John Carroll Nursing Fair

    Wednesday, October 21st 4pm to 530pm

    Our partnership with JCU includes mentoring and offering volunteer opportunities. Meet with current and future JCU School of Nursing students to give insight into career paths.

    Location: John Carroll University

    Dolan Science Center, 1 John Carroll Blvd

    University Hts, OH 44118

  • Asiatown Health Fair

    Saturday, October 24 1pm to 3pm 12/6/25 (6p-9p)

    Partnering with the Case School of Medicine Asian Students Association to provide health information and screenings.This is our third year.

    Location: Asiatown Plaza

    2999 Payne Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114

  • Alzheimer's Walk

    Saturday, October 17th, 930am there is no walk distance that you need to achieve, just a friendly walk at the Zoo

    Walk to find a cure. Walk to fund research. Walk to support those in disease, in care-giving, in loss. Walk to raise awareness. This is a free event but preregistration is recommended as it is heavily attended.

    Location: Cleveland Metro parks Zoo

    3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109

    Register 2026

  • PNAO Meeting

    Saturday, October 25, 2pm

    Monthly meeting at Lita Paat’s home.

    Location: 27926 Forestwood Pkwy, North Olmsted, OH 44070

    Click Here
Register

Take Action

Ready to take the next step?

Become a member or associate member today by joining Philippine Nurses Association of America then scroll to the bottom of the page to join “Additional membership by chapter” and click on PNA Ohio

Join today

Join a Committee

Already a member of PNAO and have specific goals or ideas you want to tackle? Join one of our committees or inquire about starting a new one!

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