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The Watson Caring Science Institute’s (WCSI) Caritas Community Conference, themed “Giving Thanks,” convened health professionals from around the world in Deerfield Beach, Florida, on November 13–15, 2024. The annual event celebrates the integration of the art and science of caring, showcasing Watson Caring Science Theories as a framework for professional practice.

Héctor Rosso, a Ph.D. student at ����ý’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing and a scholar inductee of The Global Academy of Holistic Nursing, played a key role in co-creating and organizing the conference. Rosso’s contributions included coordinating programming for Spanish-speaking attendees and presenting international initiatives, such as efforts in Kenya, in his capacity as Director of Global Programs for WCSI.

Rosso highlighted the participation of esteemed Florida Atlantic faculty and former deans, including Dr. Marlaine Smith, Dr. Howard Butcher, Dr. Marilyn “Dee” Ray, and Dr. Jean Watson, founder and director of WCSI, in a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Maria Ortega. Interim Dean Patricia Liehr was also in attendance, underscoring the college’s commitment to advancing caring science.

The event attracted a diverse audience, with nurses and chief nursing officers from around the U.S. and other countries, including Peru, Uruguay, Chile, Italy, New Zealand and Canada. Experiential activities and opportunities for knowledge-sharing were central to the program, fostering a collaborative community of caring science practitioners.

“We were grateful to receive sponsorship for the conference from Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing and Anne Boykin Institute for the Advancement of Caring in Nursing and hope to strengthen ties between WCSI and the university in future endeavors,” said Rosso.

Photos credit: Benitezvisual