Earlier this month, the 2025 AANA Annual Congress brought CRNAs from across the country together in Nashville, creating an energizing atmosphere for education, connection, and advocacy in nurse anesthesia. From keynote presentations to thought-provoking workshops and panels, the Congress delivered an enriching program that showcased its reputation as one of the leading events in the profession. Beyond the classroom, the event also provided a forum to address the evolving challenges of the profession while reinforcing the AANA Foundation’s mission of advancing anesthesia through education and research.
Among the many CRNAs in attendance were members of OSANA, proudly representing Ohio on the national stage. OSANA members had the chance to connect with peers and bring back new insights to strengthen practice and advocacy efforts at home.
Annual Congress 2025 by the numbers
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4,479 attendees joined in-person and online – Breaking our Annual Congress record for most attendees!
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157 dynamic sessions across clinical, leadership, and wellness tracks – including the first-ever AANA Hackathon
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2,842 attendees lit up the dance floor at the Party with a Purpose: Raising the Roof(tops) and raised over $15,000 in monetary donations to Project C.U.R.E.
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257 total exhibitors
Making this year’s AANA Annual Congress in Nashville even more special, OSANA’s past president and longtime active member, Jeffrey Molter, MSN, MBA, CRNA, officially began his term as the 2025–2026 President of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. Join the OSANA Board and membership in congratulating Jeff on this incredible achievement and in celebrating the leadership he brings to CRNAs across the nation. His dedication to advancing anesthesia care, advocating for the profession, and mentoring the next generation of providers reflects the very best of Ohio’s CRNA community.
“The continuing education offered was excellent. There was something for everyone and it was often difficult to pick which session I was going to attend. It was such a dynamic meeting. The networking was incredible. I got to sit and mind meld with leaders from all across the world, from Hawaii to Maine to Puerto Rico to even Ghana. I learned that no matter where CRNAs are from we are intelligent, caring, gregarious individuals that respect each other and cherish our calling of being exemplary anesthesia providers. It was an amazing and enlightening opportunity.” -Nick Farinacci
“My biggest takeaway from the AANA Annual Congress was how awesome it was to connect with future and current students, CRNAs, and alumni all in one place. The education sessions were super informative and gave me a lot to think about as I continue my journey. Plus, the exhibit hall was amazing — so much cool stuff and networking opportunity packed into one space!” - Molly Chaney
“I left annual congress feeling educated and inspired. One particular highlight was hearing Mary M., a CRNA from Kenya, speak. Her passion for improving outcomes in her own country as well as across Africa was inspirational. Her impact spans far and wide, with her emphasis on educating local nurse anesthetists. She is making a difference, and her testimony at annual congress was met with a standing ovation, and tears from many. It was a great reminder that we all have something to give—and that people all around the world deserve the high quality care that CRNAs provide.” -Sarah Milligan
“Attending the AANA Annual Congress in Nashville reminded me of the power of education and connection within our CRNA community. From meeting leaders nationally and internationally to learning from mentors committed to advancing global anesthesia, I’m motivated to continue growing in my role so I can help lead and support OSANA with fresh ideas and perspective.” -Michelle Smith
From the record-breaking attendance to the inspiring educational sessions and networking opportunities, this year’s event left a lasting impact on all who participated. As we return home to Ohio, we carry with us renewed energy and a deeper commitment to advancing our practice and advocating for our profession. OSANA is proud to stand alongside CRNAs across the country in shaping the future of anesthesia care.
