07/03/2026
History Made: A New Chapter for Wyoming LPNs
Dear Licensed Practical Nurses,
We are thrilled to share news that will forever be part of nursing history.
At the recent Membership Assembly of the American Nurses Association (ANA), representatives voted overwhelmingly (88%) to welcome Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) as full members of the ANA. This landmark decision represents one of the most significant membership changes in the organization's history and reflects a shared vision that every nurse's voice strengthens our profession.
For Wyoming, this moment is especially meaningful.
We are incredibly proud to recognize Lori Williams, LPN, who represented Wyoming as a member of the ANA task force that helped shape this historic recommendation. Lori's dedication, leadership, and advocacy helped pave the way for this milestone, and we are grateful for her commitment to ensuring LPNs have a stronger voice within our national professional organization.
Although the vote has been approved, implementation is currently planned for January 2027. Between now and then, ANA and the State Nurses Association - such as Wyoming Nurses Association (WNA) will be working through the details to ensure a successful launch.
For Wyoming Nurses Association:
Following the WNA Annual Conference in September, we will share additional information about membership, timelines, and what you can expect as we prepare to welcome LPNs into the Wyoming Nurses Association and the American Nurses Association.
This is more than a membership change—it is an invitation.
An invitation to build stronger connections across nursing roles.
• An invitation to learn, lead, advocate, and grow together.
• An invitation to unite around our shared commitment to improving the health of the people of Wyoming.
Every day, LPNs make an extraordinary difference in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, public health, correctional health, home health, and communities across our state. Your compassion, expertise, and dedication have always been an essential part of nursing. We are excited that this historic decision creates new opportunities for us to stand together with one voice as we shape the future of nursing.
We look forward to welcoming you into our professional community and hope you will join us as we begin this exciting new chapter together.
