Welcome, members, new subscribers, supporters, and friends of the Dermatology Nurses' Association to the new journal of the DNA. The DNA board of directors is extremely pleased to present the inaugural issue of the Journal of the Dermatology Nurses' Association (JDNA). JDNA, brought to you by our newly appointed editor, Cynthia R. King, PhD, NP, MSN, RN, FAAN, and world renowned publisher Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, a unit of the Wolters Kluwer Health, will be the only official journal of the DNA.
The Journal of the Dermatology Nurses' Association will offer
1. new columns, for example, Ethics and Regulation, NP Connections, Perspectives on Leadership, and a Pharmacology Update;
2. more focused and relevant content on dermatologic issues facing our members in their practices, as well as continuing CE articles;
3. manuscripts which may address clinical practice, research, management issues, case studies, professional and patient education, practice issues, ethical and legal topics, and collaboration with other disciplines; and
4. continued opportunities for member involvement (reviewer, contributor, columnist, and author)
5. and will serve as a trusted resource for DNA members involved in all aspects of dermatology nursing care.
To have thought just a couple years ago that DNA would find itself on the brink of such an exciting new venture is hard to believe. However, decisions made by the board of the DNA and past leaders have brought us to this point, and we owe them all a debt of gratitude. One in particular stands out at this time. Robin Weber, MN, RN, FNP-C, DNC, past president of the DNA, has been called a "rock star," a visionary, an angel, an educator extraordinaire, and a hero! She loved to push us to go the distance and help one another along the way. She also attributed her own rise to the help and support of many others. Robin always reminded us that she was who she was because of those who came before her.
Sadly, we lost Robin Weber, a much-admired member and extraordinary DNA leader, on November 1, 2008, after a courageous struggle with cancer. I have prepared a separate dedication to Robin found elsewhere in this issue, and more news about DNA's plans to honor her passing will appear in future DNA publications.
I am proud to report that the DNA has successfully responded to Robin's presidential challenge in 2004. At that time, she urged the leadership and membership of the DNA to take charge of their organization, and that is exactly what we have done. Much positive change has ensued because of and since Robin's presidency. JDNA is a prime example of leadership's willingness to implement decisions that will improve the association and its members and put DNA at the forefront of dermatology nursing care.
Enjoy your new journal. We welcome your feedback and your contributions to future issues. It is your journal and your DNA, take charge, be a part of its success!
Karrie Fairbrother
Nurse Educator