Foundation Committees
Members play a vital role in helping the AONL Foundation address the evolving needs of nursing leadership by contributing their time and expertise through service on committees, strategic leadership groups, forums, task forces, and advisory groups. The Foundation has adopted a new term to describe this robust volunteer base—Member Led Groups (MLGs). This terminology more accurately and comprehensively reflects the scope, purpose, and collaborative nature of these groups.
The 2026 Call for Volunteers will open later this month. We encourage you to apply and contribute to the AONL Foundation’s mission of creating opportunities that bridge science and practice to shape the future of nursing leadership. The AONL Foundation offers a range of volunteer opportunities for members and supporters, each designed to advance the strategic priorities of both the Foundation and AONL.
The Annual Fundraising Planning Committee supports the success of AONL Fundraising Events by serving as ambassadors, cultivating community engagement, and helping to generate revenue through ticket sales and sponsorships. Committee members play a visible, outward-facing role in promoting the event rather than managing logistics or behind-the-scenes planning.
Time commitment
One hour monthly conference calls plus additional time as needed/available.
Additional requirement
If possible, plan to attend the event and help on-site.
The Research Review Committee actively promotes nursing leadership and systems science research through strategic funding initiatives, including the AONL Foundation Grants Program and Nurse Researcher of the Year Award. The committee advises on funding opportunities, evaluates proposals and award nominations, identifies evidence-based gaps, and assesses the impact of funding priorities to guide the foundation's strategy, advance knowledge innovation, and elevate leadership practice.
Time commitment
Varies based on number of proposals/nominations received. At least one conference call meeting will occur when the committee meets to make its recommendations to the Foundation Board of Directors.
Requirement
Must have a graduate or doctoral degree. Research experience is preferred.
Evaluate financial aid applications received and make funding recommendations to the Board of Directors. This committee also reviews the criteria and application process and recommends additional financial aid opportunities for the Foundation board to consider. Members of this committee are also asked to assist with increasing charitable support to provide more financial aid funding through introductions, brainstorming, participating in fundraising activities, and working with the Annual Fundraising Planning Committee.
Time Commitment
This committee meets via virtual conferences on an ad hoc basis, and work varies based on number of applications received.
Additional Requirement
Members are asked to make a personal, meaningful commitment to the Foundation prior to contacting other donors or partners.
Members of the financial aid reviewer volunteer pool will be called upon to serve as reviewers for financial aid applications at different points throughout the year on an ad-hoc basis. Volunteers will sign up to be part of the pool and then contacted when review periods approach. Volunteers will have 1-4 weeks to review and provide feedback on applications, depending on the nature of the financial aid opportunity. All members will have an education session on the review process and criteria before their review assignment.
This diverse group of representatives from the corporate sector includes members who have an active interest in health care and the special role nurse leaders play in managing and developing the largest component of the health care sector’s workforce. Members of the Corporate Advisory Council serve as advisors to help the Foundation engage with the corporate community and advance the mission of the Foundation. Members are also asked to sponsor their seat on the Council, either as individuals or through their organization. For more information, see Corporate Partners.
