3026 - Leading at the Top: Pathway to Success!

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

9:15 AM - 10:00 AM CST

Location: The Great Hall A

CE: .75 Contact Hours

Primary Speaker(s)

Stephanie S. Davis, MSHA, RN, CNOR, CSSM (she/her/hers)

Independent Perioperative Consultant
Former VP of Surgical Services for HCA Healthcare
brentwood, Tennessee, United States

Handouts

Co-Speaker(s)

Missi Merlino, MHA, RN, CNOR, CSSMe

Retired Perioperative Leader
None
Temple, Texas, United States

Disclosure(s):

Stephanie S. Davis, MSHA, RN, CNOR, CSSM: No financial relationships to disclose

Missi Merlino, MHA, RN, CNOR, CSSMe: No financial relationships to disclose

Overview/Abstract: Have you wondered how to get to the top of your organization, company, or your professional association? In this session, two AORN past presidents will share their best advice and experience in how to succeed at work and in large organizations. They will discuss the specific steps you need to take to be able to advance your career and your standing in an organization. They will also share some of the unanticipated consequences of leading at this level and with this level of commitment. Most of all, you will leave this session with a better understanding of what a virtuous leader does and how it leads to a pathway of success.