OCN is a nonprofit organization created by nursing leaders in 2002. Recognized by the Oregon state legislature as a state advisor for nursing workforce issues, OCN fulfills its mission and objectives with help from it’s dedicated leadership, staff and community partners across Oregon.
Mission
The Oregon Center for Nursing facilitates research and collaboration for Oregon’s nursing workforce to support informed, well-prepared, diverse and exceptional nursing professionals.
Strategic Objectives
Conduct, analyze and disseminate research
Encourage collaboration and build partnerships with diverse stakeholders to advance nursing
Promote nursing and healthcare in all settings in which nurses practice
Board of Directors
Jack Dempsey, Dempsey Public Affairs
Cynthia Evans, MS, RN
Pam Fifer, EdD, RN, CNE, George Fox University
Board President
Narcy Foraker, MNE, RN, CHSE, University of Portland
Leda Garside, BSN, RN, Tuality Healthcare
Deena Harpham, Cross Country Healthcare
Erica Knepper, BSN, RN, Adventist Health
Board Vice-President
Gretchen Koch, MSN, RN, Oregon State Board of Nursing (ex-officio)
Troy Larkin, PhD, RN, Providence Health & Services
Laura Magstadt, MSN, MBA, RN, NE-BC, Asante Health
Julie Plagenhoef, MPH, RN, Nurse Family Partnership
Patricia Rojas, RN, MBA, Kaiser Permanente
Board Secretary
Kyle Stevens, MS, Southwestern Oregon Workforce Investment Board
Board Treasurer
Oregon Center for Nursing’s board of directors is an amazingly dedicated group of individuals passionate about nursing and healthcare! Comprised of up to 15 members, our board meets regularly to discuss the changes in the nursing workforce and healthcare delivery. Are you interested in serving on the OCN Board of Directors? Contact Executive Director, Jana Bitton, to learn more.
OCN Staff Members
Jana Bitton, MPA
Executive Director
jana.bitton@oregoncenterfornursing.org
503-342-4047
Rick Allgeyer, PhD
Research Director
rick.allgeyer@oregoncenterfornursing.org
503-837-6161
Dawne Schoenthal
Program Director
dawne.schoenthal@oregoncenterfornursing.org
503-444-9894
Kelley Ilic
Operations Manager
kelley.ilic@oregoncenterfornursing.org
503-342-4048