BJ Waltho will lead the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Congress in May, taking over from Stuart McKenzie.
Ms Waltho is currently the associate director of operations at Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals with over 40 years of experience as a nurse – she was formerly the vice chair of the RCN congress before her promotion.
‘I am honoured to be taking on this important role and working with the Agenda Committee ensuring that members’ voices are heard and Congress reflects current issues in nursing,’ said Ms Waltho.
‘I always leave Congress feeling inspired and reinvigorated and I hope to share that passion with our members so that they get the most out of all that Congress has to offer.’
The Congress is the biggest even of the year for the RCN where members discuss and debate current nursing practice and health policy.
‘I’m delighted that BJ is the new Chair of RCN Congress. She brings with her a wealth of nursing knowledge and experience. Her time as Vice Chair has instilled her with important insights into how Congress works and how we can encourage members to attend and get involved,’ said Janet Davies, chief executive of the RCN.
‘I also want to pay tribute to Stuart McKenzie who has been a fantastic Chair and has worked hard to modernise Congress. The role of Chair is a high profile and pivotal role and BJ will bring passion and vision to that role.’