April 2026

What are the upcoming important deadlines for educators?

How can I earn the Didactic Educator Micro-Credential and what are the benefits of obtaining it? 

What is the process for joining the AANA Challenge Team for College Bowl? 

AANA recently joined the COA and NBCRNA to welcome more than 30 new program administrators at the New Program Administrators Workshop, providing guidance, connection, and an introduction to key resources for success in their roles. 

Explore the tools, guidance, and continuing support available in the Educator Hub or Program Administrator Hub. 

Join the CRNA Challenge Team

The AANA College Bowl is seeking CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists to join the Challenge Team and compete against top resident teams at Annual Congress.

Showcase your expertise, connect with peers and take part in one of AANA’s most engaging events, now featuring a dynamic game format. 

Applications close May 6. 

Final hours: Submit your EDGE 2027 abstract

There’s still time to showcase your expertise at EDGE 2027. AANA is seeking abstracts that highlight innovative research, clinical insights, and forward-thinking educational strategies. 

Presenters gain national visibility and contribute to the advancement of nurse anesthesiology. 

Abstract submissions are due tonight at 11:59 p.m. CT. 

Nature-based mindfulness supports resident well-being

A pilot study in nurse anesthesia residents found that combining mindfulness with nature exposure can reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. By integrating structured, nature-based mindfulness into curricula, educators can help residents build resilience, improve focus and support mental health.

Share with your students: AANA resident video competition

The AANA Education Committee invites educators to encourage nurse anesthesiology residents to participate in the Resident Video Competition. This is an opportunity for residents to showcase their creativity and skills through an original video (under 3 minutes) focused on exceptional skill, wellness, innovation, or advocacy. 

Winners will be recognized at the AANA Annual Congress Resident Breakfast and select entries may be featured in AANA promotional materials. 

No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Open to AANA-member RRNAs age 18 or older enrolled in an accredited nurse anesthesia program. Submit one video via the online form (unlisted YouTube link recommended) by May 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CT. 

This competition is sponsored by the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA). 

Upcoming important dates and deadlines 

Deadline 
TODAY, April 30 at 11:59 p.m. CT 
EDGE 2027 Call for Abstracts submission 

Deadline 
TODAY, April 30 
AANA Committee applications  

Deadline 
TODAY, April 30 
AANA Foundation High-Priority Health Services and Policy Research Grant applications 

Deadline 
May 1 
AANA Journal Call for Papers submission 

Deadline 
May 1 
Rm8 iNoV8 Pitch Competition Applications 

Deadline 
September 1 
Educator Recognition Award applications 

For your students 

Deadline 
TODAY April 30 
Student representative on Education Committee applications 

Deadline 

May 6 

Resident Video Contest entry 

Event 
May 18 
Resident Roundtable: Stronger through Board Prep: Strategies and Support 

Educator Resource Hub 

• Educator Hub 

• Program Administrator Hub 

• Educator Edge 

• AANA Journal 

• Resident Hub 

• Resident Newsletters 

• Educator Network online community 

Share your ideas or Subscribe 

Got an idea for the next newsletter? Let us know. 

Forwarded this email? Subscribe now to receive monthly updates. 

As a nurse anesthesia educator, you play a vital role in shaping the next generation of CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists. Each issue of Educator Insights delivers curated resources, essential practice updates, and professional development to support both your teaching and your residents' success. 

Stay connected. Stay informed. Empower the future of nurse anesthesiology.