Rhode Island State Nurses Association names New Executive Director

Rhode Island State Nurses Association Welcomes Leslie Scales as New Executive Director and Celebrates the Distinguished Service of Retiring Executive Director Donna Policastro– 

The Rhode Island State Nurses Association (RISNA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Leslie Scales as its new Executive Director. Scales, a seasoned executive with a proven track record in leading non-profit organizations, will guide RISNA into its next chapter. This transition comes as RISNA celebrates the remarkable 18+ years of dedicated service of its retiring Executive Director, Donna Policastro.

Donna Policastro's tenure as Executive Director has been marked by significant achievements and unwavering commitment to the nurses of Rhode Island. Prior to her 18 years as Executive Director, Donna also served as President of RISNA, demonstrating her long-standing leadership and dedication to the organization and the nursing profession.

 

" Donna's leadership has been instrumental in [advancing nursing practice in the state, including the passage of the APRN Full Practice Authority Legislation, the re-entry of RI into the Nurse Licensure Compact, advocating for patient safety, and leading through the 2020 COVID pandemic. Her passion and tireless advocacy have made a lasting impact on our organization and the healthcare landscape in Rhode Island. We are deeply grateful for her years of dedicated service."

 

RISNA is delighted to announce that, while retiring from her role as Executive Director, Donna Policastro will continue to serve RISNA as a lobbyist and will provide invaluable transitional support to the incoming Executive Director, Leslie Scales. Her extensive experience as a Nurse Practitioner, her impactful activism, and her deep understanding of the legislative landscape will be crucial in ensuring a smooth transition and continued advocacy for Rhode Island nurses.

 

Leslie Scales brings a wealth of experience in leading and growing both for-profit and non-profit organizations, with a particular focus on non-profit trade associations, making her an ideal leader to build upon Donna's legacy. Scales is recognized for her strategic mindset and ability to blend strong business acumen with a deep understanding of non-profit dynamics. Her expertise spans strategic planning, talent development, process implementation, and stakeholder relationship management.

"We are thrilled to welcome Leslie to the Rhode Island State Nurses Association," said Leigh Hubbard, MS, RN, RISNA Board President. "Her extensive experience in leading non-profit organizations, coupled with her strategic vision and commitment to innovation and meaningful programming, makes her the perfect choice to advance RISNA's mission and support our dedicated nurses across the state. We are also incredibly fortunate that Donna will remain onboard through Leslie’s transition, providing her expertise."

 

Leslie Scales commented, "I am honored and excited to join the Rhode Island State Nurses Association and to build upon the strong history of the organization. I look forward to working alongside the dedicated members to help build a healthier Rhode Island through the power of nursing. ”Scales' appointment is effective April 7, 2025. RISNA and its members extend their deepest gratitude to Donna Policastro for her exceptional leadership and warmly welcome Leslie Scales to the Executive Director role!

 

About the Rhode Island State Nurses Association (RISNA):

The Rhode Island State Nurses Association (RISNA) is the professional organization representing registered nurses in Rhode Island. RISNA advocates for nurses, promotes the profession of nursing, and works to improve the health of all Rhode Islanders through the power of nursing.  Our member-led committees ensure a robust docket of professional development and networking events, legislative activism, and meaningful networking opportunities.

Contact: hello@RISNA.org  |  401-227-9255  |  www.risna.nursingnetwork.com