Future of MSPAN

Dear MSPAN Members,

For more than forty years, the Mississippi Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses (MSPAN) has proudly supported perianesthesia nurses across our state through education, advocacy, and connection. We share deep gratitude for every member who has contributed time, expertise, and leadership to help MSPAN flourish.

As many of you know, MSPAN, like several ASPAN components nationwide, has experienced significant declines in membership and limited availability of volunteers for board and committee roles. With only thirty-six current members, sustaining the responsibilities required for a healthy and compliant component has become increasingly difficult.

In response to similar challenges across the country, ASPAN launched a multi-year initiative to strengthen components and improve long-term sustainability. After extensive evaluation and consultation with legal counsel, and Dunleavy Associates, the ASPAN Board has endorsed a plan to restructure components into larger regional organizations.

After thoughtful discussion, the MSPAN Board is notifying members that we are considering endorsing ASPANs decision to restructure. This means dissolution of MSPAN as an independent component and merging into a newly formed larger region. This region would include Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

A larger regional structure is expected to:

• Enhance member engagement and networking
• Expand opportunities for leadership
• Maintain strong representation within ASPAN
• Increase access to education and professional development
• Support a sustainable future for all members

Mississippi will remain an important part of the new region. The Articles of Incorporation will be moved to another state within the region for administrative purposes only.

This letter serves as the first formal notice of MSPAN’s consideration to merge. More information, including timelines and opportunities for member input, will be shared in the coming months.

We sincerely thank each of you for your commitment to perianesthesia nursing and for your support of MSPAN. While change can be challenging, we believe this transition may provide greater strength, connection, and opportunity for all members.

Please reach out to the MSPAN Board with any questions. We look forward to continuing this conversation together.

With appreciation,
MSPAN Board of Directors