2026 cnsa ONTARIO REGIONAL CONFERENCE
FROM NORTH TO SOUTH: BUILDING A UNIFIED FUTURE FOR ONTARIO NURSING
The Canadian Nursing Students’ Association (CNSA) Ontario Regional Conference is Ontario’s premier student nursing conference, bringing together nursing students, educators, healthcare leaders, researchers,and organizations from across the province.
Hosted by Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario, the 2026 conference celebrates the diversity of nursing practice while creating meaningful conversations around collaboration, innovation, leadership, and advocacy.
Our 2026 theme— From North to South: Building a Unified Future for Ontario Nursing —reflects our commitment to strengthening connections between students from every region of Ontario while highlighting the unique perspectives of northern, rural, and Indigenous healthcare.
Throughout one and a half exciting days, attendees will participate in speaker panels, interactive workshops, leadership discussions, networking events, and an exhibitor showcase designed to inspire the next generation of nurses.
Whether you’re discovering your passion for nursing or preparing to graduate, you’ll leave with new skills, professional connections, and ideas that will shape your future career.
CONFERENCE PROGRAM
A detailed schedule will be released closer to the conference. All programming is subject to change.
Friday, September 18
Registration & Networking
Check in and get ready for the conference
● Pick up name badge & lanyard
Opening Ceremonies
Join us for opening remarks from our hosts, the Laurentian University Nursing Students' Association and Laurentian University representatives, followed by an Indigenous Land Recognition and opening remarks from our guest speakers.
Ontario Nursing Leaders Panel
Join respected nursing leaders from across Ontario for an engaging panel discussion on leadership, healthcare transformation, workforce challenges, and opportunities for students entering the nursing profession. Panelists will share their career journeys, leadership experiences, and insights into the future of healthcare while offering advice for the next generation of nurses.
Featured Panelists
● Sue LeBeau – President, Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO)
● Andrea Smith – Local Coordinator, Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA)
● David McNeil – President & CEO, Health Sciences North
● Lisa Smith – Chief Nursing Executive, Health Sciences North
Reception Social and Cash Bar
Join us for an evening of networking and conversation as you connect with nursing students, healthcare professionals, and conference guests in a relaxed setting.
Saturday, September 19
Panel Discussion
Saturday's program begins with a panel discussion exploring the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence and technology in healthcare. Featuring leaders working in digital health and innovation, the session will examine how emerging technologies are transforming acute care, community-based care, and the future of nursing practice. Following a moderated discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions during an interactive Q&A.
Morning Workshops
The remainder of the morning consists of concurrent workshops, allowing participants to personalize their conference experience by selecting three interactive sessions. Workshop topics include:
● Transitioning from nursing school to critical care practice (Offered in French)
● Nursing research fundamentals
● Mock code blue simulation
● Nursing specialty speed networking
Indigenous Health Keynote
Following a catered networking lunch, attendees will hear a keynote presentation on Indigenous health and culturally safe care.
Afternoon Workshops
The afternoon workshop block offers additional opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development. Sessions include:
● Mental health and community care
● Rural and Northern healthcare
● EKG and Rhythm interpretation
The conference concludes with our Closing Ceremonies, celebrating one and a half days of learning, leadership, collaboration, and connection while recognizing the contributions of our speakers, sponsors,
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A SPONSOR?
The CNSA Ontario Regional Conference provides organizations with a unique opportunity to engage with nursing students from colleges and universities across Ontario. Whether you’re recruiting future nurses, promoting graduate education, showcasing innovative healthcare products, or supporting student leadership, we’d love to partner with you.
Exhibitor Booth: $250
Booth package includes:
● Full-day exhibitor access for two booth attendants
● Designated exhibitor space
● Table provided
● Networking and recruitment opportunities
● Direct engagement with future nurses and healthcare professionals
Please contact orc@laurentian.ca
GETTING TO SUDBURY
Laurentian University is in Greater Sudbury, Ontario. Depending on location, attendees can travel by:
● Personal vehicle
● Ontario Northland
● Air
● Ride sharing
● Train
EXPLORE SUDBURY
Take some time to experience everything Sudbury has to offer.
● Science North
● Bell Park
● Dynamic Earth
● Local restaurants
● Beautiful lakes and walking trails
REGISTRATION OPEN NOW
Registration includes:
● Full conference access
● Keynote presentation
● Interactive workshops
● Nursing Leaders Panel
● Catered lunch on Saturday
● Refreshment breaks
● Conference materials
● Networking reception
● Exhibitor Hall access
Registration fees: $45 per ticket
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can attend?
The conference is open to nursing students, new graduates, educators, researchers, healthcare professionals, and organizations.
Do I need to be a CNSA member?
No. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Will meals be provided?
Refreshments will be available throughout the conference, and a catered lunch on Saturday September 19th.
Will workshops be first come, first served?
Workshop registration details will be announced closer to the conference.
Will there be French programming?
Yes. Select conference sessions and resources will be offered in French.
What should I wear?
Business casual attire is recommended, however please dress in what will be most comfortable for you.
Can organizations exhibit?
Absolutely! We welcome healthcare organizations, graduate programs, employers, professional associations,
and sponsors.
Contact: We’d Love to Hear From You!
For questions regarding registration, sponsorship, workshops, or general conference information, please
contact: Canadian Nursing Students’ Association – Ontario Regional Director OR The CNSA Ontario Regional
Conference email.
📧 ontario@cnsa.ca
🌐 orc@laurentian.ca
Follow us on social media for conference updates, speaker announcements, and registration information.
- Laurentian University Nursing Student Association Instagram: @lulnursing
- CNSA Instagram: @cnsa.aeic