by Debra Tolson, ICEA President
As I complete my tenure as ICEA president I have looked back at what has been accomplished. When I stepped into the role of president, ICEA was continuing to transition to a new management company (IMI Association Executives) and developing partnerships within the states and internationally. These partnerships provided opportunities for growth that included updating our programs, obtaining ANCC certification, and the addition of ICEA’s first international board member in South Africa. Below is sampling of the things that have been accomplished:
- Revamping of ICEA vision, mission, core values, and goals
- Streamlining of certification
- Emeritus Status for ICEA membership
- ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) certification
- Introducing the position of Lead Nurse Planner
- Update of ICCE (Childbirth Educator) curriculum
- New ICPD (Postpartum Doula) curriculum
- Mentorship Program
- Webinars
- Partnership with IMBCO to support the ICI (International Childbirth Initiative)
- Partnership with Yanma to support trainings and workshops in China
- Partnership with GAMMH (Global Alliance Maternal Mental Health)
- Partnership with Count the Kicks
- Increase in social media activity
- Awards – development of categories
- The Circle C Award
- Penny Simkin Lifetime Achievement Award
- Sister Circle Award
- Updated website
- Updated Handbook and policies
- Revision of IAT (ICEA Approved Trainer) requirements and contracts
- Revision of ITP (International Teaching Partner) agreements
- Update position papers and post tests
It has been a privilege and honor to serve as ICEA president. It has given me the opportunity to work with incredibly board members and the IMI management team. It has allowed me to meet others who are equally compassionate about maternal child health. As I move into other ventures, I will continue to support and be active with ICEA! Flourishing for ICEA, Debra
