WE CARE Nursing Wellness
Workforce Engagement for Compassionate Advocacy, Resiliency, and Empowerment
WE CARE is a nurse-led initiative dedicated to fostering wellness, belonging, and professional growth across UAB Nursing. Through evidence-based strategies and collaborative partnerships, we support inpatient nursing units and leaders in fostering growth and well-being for nurses across all career stages.
WE CARE Nursing Wellness Conference 2026
The WE CARE Nursing Wellness Conference is designed to support nurses across Alabama while welcoming participants from beyond the state. This conference brings together nurses, nurse leaders, and pre-licensure nursing students to explore innovative approaches to wellness, engagement, and healthy work environments.
This year’s theme, Nurses Lead Change, highlights creative and forward-thinking strategies that strengthen nurse well-being and support sustainable practice across diverse settings.
Keynote Speaker
We are excited to welcome Marion Leary, a nurse innovator and leader in health care design and innovation from the University of Pennsylvania. Her work focuses on reimagining health care systems, empowering clinicians, and advancing innovative solutions to complex challenges in nursing and health care.
Conference highlights include:
- Innovative, nurse-led wellness initiatives
- Practical strategies to support engagement, recognition, and resilience
- Shared learning across roles, specialties, and career stages
- Connection with colleagues from across Alabama and beyond
Additional details, including the agenda and registration information, will be shared closer to the event.
If you have questions or group inquiries, please email wecare@uabmc.edu.
Abstract Submissions
We are now accepting abstract submissions for the WE CARE Nursing Wellness Conference 2026, set for Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at the UAB Alumni House in Birmingham, Alabama.
Abstracts may represent projects at any stage (planning, implementation, or evaluation) and should highlight nurse-led initiatives, research, or innovations that advance nurse well-being, workforce engagement, clinical practice, education, or student scholarship.
Most accepted abstracts will be selected for poster presentation. In addition, up to two abstracts will be selected for podium (oral) presentations during the conference.
Accepted posters will receive one complimentary conference registration.
Abstract submission deadline: July 10, 2026
Notification of acceptance: July 24, 2026
Nursing Workforce Impact Award
The WE CARE Nursing Workforce Impact Award recognizes a licensed nurse practicing in Alabama who has made a meaningful difference in the nursing workforce within the past five years. Impact may occur at any level of practice and does not require a formal leadership title.
This award honors nurses whose actions, leadership, mentorship, advocacy, or everyday contributions have strengthened team culture, improved work environments, and supported nurse well-being and professional growth. Nurses are encouraged to nominate fellow nurses whose impact deserves recognition.
Nomination submission deadline: July 10, 2026
Notification of acceptance: July 24, 2026