The Washington Center for Nursing, the statewide nonprofit nursing workforce center, has announced the selection of Sofia Aragon JD, BSN, RN as its new executive director. Aragon is also the new co-lead for the Washington Nursing Action Coalition and Co-PI on the Academic Progression in Nursing grant in Washington State.

“The WCN Board of Directors is excited and pleased to bring Sofia on board as our new executive director,” said Victoria Fletcher MSN, ARNP, FACNM, WCN Board President. “Sofia’s background and experience will be a great asset in moving forward the work of WCN benefiting nurses in the state and WCN’s many partners.”

As the executive director, Aragon will lead WCN’s work that focuses on promoting nursing as a desirable career; developing and managing data about the nursing workforce, identifying and disseminating information on best practices in nursing recruitment and retention; and increasing access to all levels of nursing education. WCN collaborates with stakeholders in workforce development, education and practice in Washington and across the United States to address nursing workforce issues.

Aragon brings a background in health care policy and nursing education and practice.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Washington in 1994; a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Seattle University in 1997; and her Juris Doctor degree from Loyola University-Chicago School of Law in 2002.

She holds a Washington State Registered Nurse license and is a member of the Washington State Bar Association.

Prior to joining WCN, Aragon was a senior governmental affairs advisor at the Washington State Nurses Association. She also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the Seattle University College of Nursing and as a legislative externship site supervisor at the Seattle University School of Law.

Other experience includes working at the WA Department of Health Community and Family Health Division as the legislative and policy manager; as the contracts manager with DOH’s HIV Client Services; and direct-care nursing positions with Providence Medical Center and the Rainier Park Medical Clinic in Seattle.

Aragon also serves as the chair of the Governor’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs; as president of the Washington chapter of the American Association of Nurse Attorneys; and is a member of Filipino Lawyers of Washington.

“I’m thankful to the Board for this opportunity,” Aragon said. “With the tremendous changes in healthcare over the past few years, I’m excited to take on this role to further advance the nursing profession.”

Aragon will replace Linda Tieman RN, MN, FACHE, who has left WCN after 11 years in the position.

To reach Aragon, please send emails to sofiaa@wcnursing.org or call (206) 787-1200 ext. 107.

For more information on the Washington Center for Nursing, visit www.wcnursing.org.