Advancing Nursing Excellence for Future Healthcare Leaders

Lead - Learn - Inspire

Dedicated to Advancing Nursing Education and Professional Development in Kansas

KANS stands for the Kansas Association of Nursing Students. It is the official state constituent association of the National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA), representing nursing students enrolled in nursing programs throughout Kansas.

KANS exists to support nursing students as they develop into future professional nurses by providing opportunities for:

Leadership development through state and national leadership positions.
Professional growth with educational conferences, workshops, and networking.
Advocacy for nursing students and the nursing profession.
Community service and health promotion projects across Kansas.
Recruitment and mentorship of future nurses.
Collaboration among nursing school Student Nurses' Association (SNA) chapters throughout the state.

KANS also serves as the link between Kansas nursing students and the NSNA, allowing students to:

Attend the annual state convention.
Elect state student leaders.
Vote on bylaws and organizational business through delegates.
Compete for awards and scholarships.
Participate in statewide initiatives such as Breakthrough to Nursing and Image of Nursing projects.
Represent Kansas at the NSNA House of Delegates.

Mission

KANS promotes the professional development of nursing students and prepares them for leadership roles within the profession while encouraging high standards of nursing education, practice, and service to the public.

Who can join?

Membership is generally open to students enrolled in approved nursing programs in Kansas who are members of the NSNA. Many schools have local SNA chapters that are affiliated with KANS.

KANS helps connect nursing students across Kansas so they can lead, learn, inspire, and serve while preparing for successful careers in nursing. The Kansas Association of Nursing Students (KANS) serves as an association committed to uniting nursing students across the state. By facilitating leadership development, professional networking, and educational opportunities the association optimizes pathways for future healthcare leaders to excel and contribute meaningfully to the nursing profession.

Leadership Roles

Leadership begins long before graduation. Every nursing student has the opportunity to make a difference by stepping into a leadership role, whether at the local school chapter, state association, or national level. Serving as a student leader is more than holding a title—it is an opportunity to grow personally and professionally while making a lasting impact on fellow students and the nursing profession.

Leadership positions within the Kansas Association of Nursing Students (KANS) provide members with valuable experiences in communication, teamwork, organization, public speaking, advocacy, and decision-making. Student leaders work together to plan educational programs, organize state events, recruit new members, support local chapters, advocate for healthcare issues, and represent the voices of nursing students throughout Kansas. These experiences build confidence and prepare students for future leadership roles in healthcare organizations, hospitals, and professional nursing associations.

Many nurses discover that the leadership skills they develop as students become the foundation for success throughout their careers. Employers value graduates who demonstrate initiative, professionalism, collaboration, and a commitment to service—qualities that are strengthened through active participation in student organizations.

Whether your passion is membership recruitment, legislation, community service, convention planning, finance, communications, or professional development, there is a place for you to lead. KANS offers a variety of Board of Directors positions and committee opportunities that allow students with different interests and talents to contribute.

Leadership is not about having all the answers; it is about serving others, encouraging your peers, and inspiring positive change. Every successful nurse leader started by saying "yes" to an opportunity. If you are ready to grow, challenge yourself, and help shape the future of nursing in Kansas, consider running for a KANS leadership position. Your voice, ideas, and passion can make a difference for nursing students across the state.

Lead. Learn. Inspire. The future of nursing starts with you.

Please contact us if you are interested in running for a position on the KANS Board of Directors or volunteering for a special committee.

The Annual State Convention

The KANS State Convention is the premier annual event for nursing students across Kansas, bringing together student leaders, faculty advisors, and nursing professionals for a weekend of learning, leadership, and networking. Attendees participate in educational sessions, professional development workshops, leadership training, and discussions on issues impacting the nursing profession. During the convention, delegates from constituent schools conduct the official business of the association by voting on bylaws, electing the KANS Board of Directors, and helping shape the future of the organization. The convention also celebrates the accomplishments of Kansas nursing students and schools through awards, recognition ceremonies, and opportunities to share successful projects and ideas. Whether attending for the first time or returning as a student leader, the KANS State Convention provides an inspiring experience that strengthens leadership skills, builds lifelong professional connections, and prepares students to become the next generation of nurse leaders.

Traditionally, the Kansas Annual Convention has been held in the Fall, however considerations are being made to move the convention to the spring. We have not decided on the theme for the 2027 Convention. All input is welcome!