From Evidence to Action -

Overview

This conference unites researchers, policy leaders, professional organizations and academic institutions to explore how research moves beyond publication to shape federal and state policy, institutional decision-making, clinical guidelines and professional standards.

Learn what it takes for high-quality evidence to shape the future of nursing and health care.

Honoring the Legacy of Patricia Townsend Meador

Patricia Townsend Meador, JD, BSN’78, was a nationally recognized leader in health law, known for her expertise in health care regulation, compliance and operations. A Vanderbilt University School of Nursing graduate and accomplished attorney, she advised a wide range of clients from hospitals and academic medical centers to pharmaceutical companies and physician groups. Patricia held leadership roles with the American Bar Association and the American Health Lawyers Association, and was honored as a Fellow of the American Health Lawyers. Her distinguished career included positions with Duke University, Bass, Berry & Sims and K&L Gates.

Impact

This conference moves beyond abstract conversations and theory to illuminate how decisions are actually made—within legislatures, regulatory agencies, health systems and professional organizations. Speakers will highlight specific decision points where data influenced outcomes—or failed to—and unpack why.

Sessions will explore how research informs:

Federal and state policy
Regulations and regulatory guidance
Institutional and health system protocols
Quality measures and care pathways
Clinical guidelines, consensus statements and professional standards

Through candid storytelling and practical insight, speakers will give participants a clearer understanding of:

How data enters policy and guideline processes
Where institutional and professional standards evolve
What makes data actionable to decision-makers
How to effectively engage in policy and standards development
How to evaluate and document real-world impact
How to engage the media to impact change and deliver your message

Who Should Attend

Nursing deans and other academic leaders
Nursing faculty
Nurses in nursing research or policy
Board of Nursing and other regulators
PhD and DNP students
Nursing advocates and lobbyists
Nurse researchers and those interested in policy and research
Members of ANA, AACN, NLN, Sigma Theta Tau and other nursing organizations

Registration Details

Registration is $295

Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) credit (# TBD)

Breakfast, lunch, parking, conference materials included

Hotel Accommodations

A discounted room block has been secured at the Homewood Suites Nashville Vanderbilt for conference attendees.

Guests may take advantage of a negotiated group rate available through July 30, 2026, or until the block is filled. We recommend booking early, as availability is limited.

The hotel is conveniently located near Vanderbilt University and offers amenities including complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and in-suite kitchenettes.

To reserve your room at the discounted rate, please use the booking link below or mention the conference name when calling the hotel at 615-340-8000.

Booking Link: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/bnavbhw-91l-80478947-3409-479f-9257-a711ae3d7de5

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Complete Your Registration

Vanderbilt University School of Nursing is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

Accreditation Statement (Pending):

Continuing nursing education (CNE) contact hours for this conference are currently being reviewed and are pending approval through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Final determination of awarded contact hours will be communicated to participants prior to the start of the conference.