HISTORY & GOALS

Through the support of the development of instructional skills and scientific investigation in nurse practitioner education, NONPF serves the public interest by assuring the preparation of highly qualified health care professionals.

History

NONPF's formative years were focused on establishing curriculum guidelines for nurse practitioner education during 1976-1980. The first national meeting of nurse practitioner educators was held in 1974, and from 1976-1980 the National Task Force for Family Nurse Practitioner Curriculum and Evaluation developed guidelines. Upon completion of the curriculum project, the task force members felt the need for continued dialogue on NP education issues and the first organizational meeting of NONPF was held on April 10, 1980, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. NONPF has grown since to a strong organization representing over approximately 90% of all institutions in the US with NP Programs, as well as, faculty from programs in Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries.

Mission Statement

NONPF is the leader in education for preparing a quality NP workforce to meet evolving societal health needs.

Vision Statement

To elevate and foster the highest standards of nurse practitioner education and innovative instructional approaches by (1) attracting, developing, and disseminating resource; (2) supporting faculty during seismic changes in health care and nursing education; (3) adapting to diverse and expanding student needs; and (4) responding to the health needs of society.

Organizational Goals

The Board of Directors has identified the following priority goals for NONPF:

• Advancing QUALITY - Promotes continuous quality improvement and evidence-based approaches to nurse practitioner education through the development of standards, guidelines, teaching instruments, resources, and networking exchanges for faculty.
• Influencing POLICY - Collaborates with other organizations and leads the nursing community to further NP education and NP educational policy.
• Fostering DIVERSITY - Promotes a culture of diversity in NONPF and NP education and advances globalization of nurse practitioner education.
• Promoting SCHOLARSHIP – Promotes opportunities that advance faculty scholarship in teaching, research, practice, and service.
• Strengthening RESOURCES - Ensure the growth, financial viability, and sustainability of NONPF and develops strategies to promote the success of NP educational programs.

 Updated August 2010