A moment with ... Diane Hinely, MSN, RN Director, Workplace Advocacy Georgia Nurses Association.

Diane Hinely, MSN, RN, took a moment to discuss her personal and professional ambitions and achievements with Jodi Weber, GNA/GNF marketing and communication director. The following is a recount of the conversation.

There are two paths to respect, one through fear and one through understanding. For Diane Hinely, that path of understanding is lined by perfect amounts poise, balance and the wisdom to lead. What inspires us all is her relentless push to move towards the future with her conviction and a healthy dose of fun.

Hinely resides with her husband, Alvin, in Savannah, Georgia. She is a native of what she still calls the greatest city ever. Diane and Alvin have raised two children, Elizabeth, 21, and Thomas, 18. The family dog, Boo, completes the mix.

True to her dedication to her city, Hinely completed her nursing education from Armstrong Atlantic State University in Savannah. The following gives us an understanding of her goals, accomplishments and hope for the future.

JW: Diane, do you remember why you decided on nursing?

Hinely: I remember my mother was in nursing school while I was still in high school. I used to help her study and realized that I really enjoyed what she was learning. I suppose it was then that I knew I wanted to go into nursing.

JW: Where are you currently employed?

Hinely: Currently, I am employed by St. Joseph's/Candler in Savannah, Georgia.

JW: Diane, do you have any heroes or inspirations?

Hinely: Certainly. Like other nurses, I see Florence Nightingale as a hero and a legend. Likewise, I am inspired by all people who are caring towards one another and are not afraid to show that.

JW: As GNA director of workplace advocacy, tell us about your goals.

Hinely: I hope to continue to help both patients and nurses to improve the health care system from all perspectives. I aim to be open-minded in my approach to being an advocate for better health care through each and every aspect. I am certain that my toughest challenge ahead will be finding solutions for nurse retention.

JW: What is your favorite thing about GNA membership?

Hinely: Sharing knowledge and information with nurses from across the state and nation. Networking with your colleagues is a key success factor for a healthy career.

JW: In your opinion, what is GNA's most important activity?

Hinely: obviously, I think workplace advocacy is high on the priority list. The organization will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2007. This milestone will mark GNA's past and bring us into the future. My work as co-chair of the celebration committee has given me a unique perspective on the importance of the story that GNA has to tell!

JW: What would you say is your career high or low?

Hinely: I was fortunate to have the opportunity to implement a point of care computer system for nursing. It is great to be on the cutting edge of technology and innovation. I guess I haven't had a career low point yet!

JW: Tell us about some of your most memorable events, personally or professionally.

Hinely: The day I graduated from nursing school and each of the births of my children are still most memorable for me.

The above interview was conducted September 2006 with the permission of Diane Hinely for use by the Georgia Nurses Association. For questions or to CONTACT Diane, please CONTACT the GNA office at 404.325.5536.