History of the PNASC
The Filipino Nurses Association of South Carolina emerged in 1979 with 12 nurses led by Ligaya Aquino at the VA Medical Center as initial members. Our immediate goal was unity, to make “the difference as Filipino nurses in the community” and to be recognized as ethnic group in South Carolina. Filipino nurses from other institutions were invited to join us and in 1981 we had our first induction of officers. Our chapter was chartered in 1983 under the leadership of Lily Cabading and the guidance of a lawyer—Mr. Elbert Rozier.
The association is proud of its years of accomplishments and contributions in the tri-county area. Professionally, we collaborate with regulatory, educational, civic and community agencies in providing opportunities for networking as well as promoting our personal, professional and leadership development. Members attended conferences to keep abreast with current trends and to be better health care providers.
Recognizing the need in the 1980’s, licensing review courses and tutorials have been some of the initiatives that help the Filipino nurses prepare for the licensing board exam. By continuing education, we’re supported with assisted tuition. Another initiative was getting involved with legislation. We attended several legislative meetings in support of the legislation concerning nurses in the State of South Carolina.
Community involvement has been a yearly endeavor, a way to serve the tri-county area. Diabetic and cholesterol screening, participation at the Helping Hands clinic and Harvest Free Medical Clinic for the indigent, the breast clinic, first aid at the Gaillard Auditorium Spoleto Festival, prostate screening at Holling’s Cancer Center, Relay for Life, and blood pressure screening sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, different churches, and the professional organization of FCC, were a few of the activities in which FNA volunteered to participate. Stewardship has been one of the important missions of the FNA. We support the Filipino Community Center Scholarship fund and the South Carolina Children’s Charity on a yearly basis.
To improve networking with other Filipino nurses nationwide, the FNA of Charleston became members of the PNAA in 1995 and renamed the association as PNA of South Carolina in 2003. The mission statement in congruence with the PNAA is to promote viability, visibility, and vitality. Regional conferences and conventions hosted by the PNAA of different states were attended by our members. The Southeastern Regional Conference was held here in Charleston, South Carolina in 2000. Also in July 2003 the PNASC hosted the three days of the 24th Annual National Convention. We are proud of the successful outcome of this convention because of the professionalism, initiatives, and support of the members.
We are also proud to celebrate our “Silver Anniversary” as a unified Filipino Nurses Association in South Carolina. We look forward to more unparalleled opportunities as we continue to share with each other our knowledge and diverse experiences.
Lily Cabading