January 24, 2025
By Megan J. Allen MSN, APRN, FNP-C
On January 22nd, the Yale School of Nursing’s Office of Global Affairs and Planetary Health proudly launched the 2025 global collaborative series, “Aligning Advanced Practice Nursing with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” This innovative monthly series, co-hosted by the Vanderbilt School of Nursing and the University of Michigan School of Nursing, highlights how Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) can lead in advancing the SDGs through actionable strategies and real-world applications.
The inaugural session featured Dr. Carol Ziegler, NP-C, APHN-BC, DNP, co-founder of the Climate, Health, and Energy Equity Lab (CHEEL) at Vanderbilt University’s Wond’ry Innovation Center. Dr. Ziegler captivated attendees with her insights into the intersections of health equity, climate resilience, and advanced nursing practice. She provided inspiring, practical examples of how APNs can integrate the SDGs into their daily work to create meaningful global health impacts.
A group of Yale School of Nursing students, faculty, and staff gathered to view the presentation together, enjoying lunch and engaging in lively discussions about applying Dr. Ziegler’s ideas to their own practices and projects. The event emphasized the importance of collaboration, reflection, and local action as essential components of global health leadership.
As part of the Office of Global Affairs & Planetary Health’s focus on celebrating 10 years of planetary health in 2025, this collaborative series will continue monthly this year. The lineup of speakers from around the world will offer diverse perspectives and strategies for APNs to actively contribute to planetary health and the sustainable development goals. By empowering nurse leaders to embrace the SDGs, this collaborative effort demonstrates the critical role of nursing in shaping a healthier, more equitable planet. To register for future speakers, please use this link.