Making History: National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) California Chapters Unite in Fresno
- infosacnahn
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
On September 13, 2025, seven chapters of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) came together for a groundbreaking moment—the Inaugural California Statewide Conference held in Fresno, CA. Hosted at the Hyatt Place Fresno, this full-day event marked a powerful step forward in uniting Hispanic nurses and nursing students across the state to lead, advocate, educate, and innovate. Special pricing and programming for student nurses highlighted NAHN’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders
Seven Chapters, One Vision
Nurses from Sacramento, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, the Inland Empire, Central Valley, and Orange County joined forces to amplify their collective voice.
Education & Empowerment
Attendees earned up to 7.5 CE credits through interactive workshops and keynote sessions focused on leadership, advocacy, and community wellness. The day was filled with dynamic speakers who offered impactful leadership messages, including Dr. Veronica Vital, PhD, MLS, RN (NAHN President), Dr. Grace Grau, DNP, CRNP, ACNP-BC, AACN, FAAN (NAHN President-Elect), and Paul Chavez from the Cesar Chavez Foundation. The program continued with powerful keynote speakers, including Sacramento NAHN member Katrina "Kat" Ascencio-Holmes, RN, CNOR, BSN, MHA.
Diverse Nursing Panel
Leaders from Black, Indian, Filipino, Hmong, and Hispanic/Latinx communities shared insights on culturally competent care and strategies to address health disparities. The conference included lively music, a silent auction, and concluded with a performance by folkloric dancers.
The Role of Sacramento NAHN
Sacramento NAHN’s immediate past president, Reyna Portillo-Marzocca, participated in a groundbreaking collaboration with leaders from all seven California chapters and local members to plan, develop, and launch a first-of-its-kind conference. This innovative event combined accredited continuing education opportunities with a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere—while also raising essential funds to support future scholarships for aspiring nurses.
The above images portray, from left, the keynote speaker Katrina "Kat" Ascencio-Holmes, RN, CNOR, BSN, MHA, and Monica Aguilar (Sacramento NAHN President), Katherine Velasco-Mackin (Sacramento NAHN Treasurer), and Dr. Sandra Calderon (Past Sacramento NAHN President).
Quotes about the conference:
"The Inaugural CA NAHN conference reminded me why I chose nursing in the first place. It's about the heart. It's about showing up, not just for our patients, but for each other. It was the first time all seven CA chapters of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses came together in one place. Honestly, it felt like a big, beautiful family reunion. I'm glad to have been part of this historical moment."
Reyna Portillo-Marzocca (Immediate Past President)
"The Inaugural California NAHN Conference has made me feel inspired and grateful. I’m incredibly proud of the strong representation from our Sacramento NAHN Chapter members, who were present and demonstrated our ongoing commitment to learning, networking, and collaborating with fellow members across the state. Additionally, to return home and share with others in our Sacramento nursing community what we saw, heard, felt, and experienced. To see so many beautiful faces and colors gathered in one space truly warmed my heart. The smiles, laughter, hugs, and sense of unity created a beautiful ambiance that was felt by all. The room radiated with nursing talent and passion, setting the tone for an unforgettable day. The dedication and hard work that went into organizing the conference shone brightly—from the thoughtful presentations and engaging speakers to the insightful panel discussions, the leadership that brought us all together, and the sponsors, whose support contributed to making this event possible—for you, for us, for all. It’s refreshing to have a California NAHN conference to look forward to, and I’m already excited to see what the future holds for the years to come. Estamos Presente y ¡Sí Se Pudo!"
Martha Benavidez, Sacramento NAHN President Elect
"I was surrounded by so many powerful and inspiring Latinx nurses whose stories and passion deeply moved me. I left feeling uplifted, proud of our shared culture, and more determined than ever to continue advocating for the Hispanic community." Angelica Haro, Sacramento NAHN Secretary
"I am amazed at how well this event turned out. The food, music, and speakers were phenomenal. I left this event feeling empowered and proud to be in a state full of amazing and talented nurses. Listening to Paul Chavez share how proud his father would have been to share the same room full of doctoras brought tears to my eyes because I also feel that same pride. I know next year will be even better!"
Katherine Velasco-Mackin, Sacramento NAHN Treasurer
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