Candidates for 2025 - 2026 Board Election

The following candidates are running for office to serve on the FANA Board of Directors. Please review their candidate information and position statements. Active FANA members will be asked to complete an election ballot to vote for who will serve on the Board from the candidates below. Elections will be open July 1 – 14.

 

FOR PRESIDENT-ELECT


Mayte Diaz, DNP, CRNA, APRN

Tampa, FL
(Candidate 1 of 1)

 

 

 Affiliation: University of South Florida

Offices Held:

  • AANA Communications Committee, 2024 – Present
  • FANA Board of Directors (Director), 2023 – 2025
  • FANA Member Services Co-Chair, 2023 - Present
  • FANA Member Services (Member), 2022 – Present

POSITION STATEMENT

As a CRNA since 2012, I have dedicated my career not only to delivering high-quality anesthesia care, but also to shaping the next generation of nurse anesthesiology professionals. My seven years as an RRNA Clinical Coordinator at an academic center allowed me to mentor and guide students in a dynamic clinical environment. Currently, I serve as the Faculty Advisor for the USF Nurse Anesthesiology Program’s Student Success and Wellness Committee, further reinforcing my dedication to mentorship, advocacy and professional development. Beyond education, my leadership roles within FANA as a Director and Co-Chair of the Member Services Committee have provided me with experience in policy implementation and member engagement. Additionally, my involvement in FANA Grassroots, and the AANA Communications Committee has strengthened my ability to navigate organizational governance on both state and national levels. I am eager to continue contributing my expertise and passion for our profession to FANA and would be honored to serve in the capacity of President-Elect. 


 

FOR VICE PRESIDENT


Cindi Dabney, PhD, DNP, CRNA, APRN

Tampa, FL
(Candidate 1 of 2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Affiliation: University of South Florida

Offices Held: 

  • FANA Program Committee Co-Chair, 2023 – Present
  • TANA Education Committee
  • TANA Planning Committee (Member)
  • TANA Planning Committee Co-Chair

POSITION STATEMENT 

My name is Cindi L. Dabney, and I respectfully request your vote to serve as Vice President on the FANA Board of Directors. I have proudly served as a practicing CRNA in Florida and Tennessee since 2001, working across various specialties. For the past eight years, I have also had the privilege of educating future CRNAs. Whether in the OR or the classroom, I stand shoulder to shoulder with Florida CRNAs on the front lines of patient care.

I’ve been a member of AANA, TANA, and FANA since 2001. I’ve contributed to our profession by serving on the TANA Education Committee and the TANA and FANA Conference Planning Committees. I continually advocate for full-scope, autonomous anesthesia practice in Florida. I stand in solidarity with all CRNAs who support the advancement of our great profession. As a clinician and educator, I strive for excellence in all I do, and I’ve instilled that same drive in my students.

My research has centered on CRNA advocacy and full practice authority, specifically exploring CRNAs’ experiences within the Anesthesia Care Team (ACT) model. This work highlights the value CRNAs place on their decision-making skills and the strengths, challenges, and conflicts they face when collaborating with physician anesthesiologists. The findings from my research highlight essential changes needed to support CRNA autonomy: updates to credentialing systems, equitable payment structures, and less restrictive hospital policies. These changes are critical for our profession, as they improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and increase access to care.

During my legislative visits in Florida and Tennessee, I represent CRNAs while advocating for our profession by educating lawmakers on the safety, quality, and accessibility of CRNAs, especially in underserved and veteran populations. Having heard firsthand from CRNAs nationwide, I remain committed to fighting for full practice authority in Florida. My mission is to work with legislators to amplify our message: CRNAs are the original anesthesia experts, and we are essential to the future of healthcare. I’ve had the joy of mentoring hundreds of CRNA students, emphasizing the value of autonomous practice and the full scope of anesthesia services. I’m passionate about helping them realize their potential as independent providers and leaders in our field.

As your FANA Vice President, I will prioritize independent practice. It is both a professional imperative and a necessity for patient care. Together, we can advance our profession, expand access, and reduce costs while upholding the highest standards of care. Stand with me. Vote for me. Allow me the honor of serving and fighting for Florida CRNAs. Please vote for Cindi Dabney! 


 


Jill Mason, Ed.D, DNAP, MSN, CRNA, APRN, COI, FAANA

Orlando, FL
(Candidate 2 of 2)

 

 

 

 

 

Affiliation: AdventHealth University DNAP

Offices Held: 

  • AANA Government Relations Committee, 2018 – 2020
  • AANA Journal Committee, 2012
  • S.C.A.N.A. President, 2019 – 2020
  • S.C.A.N.A. President-Elect, 2018 – 2019
  • S.C.A.N.A. Trustee, 2016 – 2018
  • S.C.A.N.A. Government Relations CRNA Paid Position
  • INANA Government Relations Committee, 2022
  • FANA Government Relations Committee, 2023 – Present
  • FANA DEI Committee Member, 2023 – Present

POSITION STATEMENT 

I am eager to serve as Vice President for the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (FANA) to continue my commitment to advancing our profession at the State level. Having previously served in South Carolina, where I actively fought for issues similar to those we face in Florida, I bring a wealth of experience to this role. My background as President, President Elect, and my involvement in various committees, including the AANA Government Relations Committee, has equipped me with the skills necessary to support FANA in pushing forward its strategic plan and legislative agenda. I am passionate about advocating for our profession and ensuring that we continue to make significant strides in Florida. 


 

FOR DIRECTOR (3 POSITIONS OPEN) 


Lindsey Bell, DNP, CRNA, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, APRN

Ocean Springs, MS
(Candidate 1 of 7)

 

 

 

 

 


Affiliation: Florida International University, Memorial Gulfport

Offices Held: 

  • FARRNA President, 2024 - 2025
  • FARRNA Committee Co-Chair, 2024 – Present
  • FANA Government Relations Committee, 2023 – Present
  • FANA DEI Committee, 2023 – 2024
  • FANA Member Services Committee, 2023 – 2024
  • FANA Program Committee, 2022 – 2023

POSITION STATEMENT 

I am a CRNA committed to excellence in clinical practice, advocacy, and education. I am dedicated to supporting FANA’s mission and advancing CRNA practice in Florida. As FARRNA President and the FARRNA Committee Co-Chair, I have worked to bridge education and practice, advocating for students and CRNAs while fostering leadership in the field of Nurse Anesthesiology. As an active member of FANA’s Grassroots Committee, I have engaged in legislative efforts that promote CRNA autonomy. In leading the Proclamation Task Force, I secured statewide recognition of CRNAs, increasing visibility for our profession. My participation in FANA CRNA Days and AANA’s Mid-Year Assembly has reinforced my dedication to protecting and expanding CRNA practice rights. I am passionate about professional development and have presented at FANA and AANA conferences on anesthesia-related topics, including mentorship, advocacy, and anesthetic considerations. If selected as a Director, I would promote and strengthen my advocacy efforts to benefit and best represent FANA and work to foster mentorship and inclusion for the members of FANA. 


 


Jason Duprat, MBA, MSA, CRNA, APRN

Osteen, FL
(Candidate 2 of 7)

 

 

 

 Affiliation: Ketamine Academy, Healthcare Boss Academy

Offices Held: 

  • New Mexico Association of Nurse Anesthetists Director, 2016 – 2018

POSITION STATEMENT 

I am honored to seek election as a FANA Director. I am driven by a deep commitment to advancing the interests of Florida CRNAs and the patients we serve. Over my career as a Navy Officer, anesthesia provider, and founder of multiple academies, I have witnessed the positive impact that nurse anesthetists have on healthcare outcomes and innovation. Florida CRNAs deserve a strong voice both within and outside of FANA, and I have the background to ensure we are heard and respected. I have worked as an independent anesthesia provider in the military and civilian sectors and owned multiple healthcare-related businesses, including a private clinic. This experience, along with my previous service on NMANA’s board, has equipped me to champion CRNAs. As a FANA Director, I will work to expand our scope of practice, ensure equal reimbursement, and remove independent practice barriers for CRNAs. I will also work to strengthen and guide FANA’s efforts so that Florida CRNAs can focus on delivering safe, high-quality care in whatever anesthesia practice model they choose. As the founder of the Ketamine Academy, I have developed courses blending clinical mastery and business training. I will leverage this experience and collaborate with FANA leadership to expand online education, mentorship programs, and new practice models, ensuring CRNAs remain at the forefront of anesthesia practice. My background in entrepreneurship, strategic business planning, and current DNP studies will guide me in maintaining transparent financial practices, exploring innovative revenue streams, maximizing the return on every member’s investment, and strengthening FANA’s financial health.

FANA members deserve a strong leadership team and unwavering dedication. I aim to support Florida CRNAs under a shared vision of clinical excellence, professional respect, and expanded opportunities—and I look forward to strengthening the profession in our state. 


 


Lisa Lauro, MSN, CRNA

Jacksonville Beach, FL
(Candidate 3 of 7)

 

 

 

 

Affiliation: Nurse Shark Anesthesia, LLC

Offices Held: 

  • Massachusetts Association of Nurse Anesthesiology Government Relations Committee, 2015
  • Navy Reserves, 2010 – 2018
  • Southampton MA Board of Health Elected Member, 2016

POSITION STATEMENT 

While currently serving as the CRNA representative to the Florida Coalition of Advanced Practice Nurses, I am giving our profession a voice within our network of advanced practice nurse colleagues. I am also a current member of the FANA Government Relations Committee, hoping to push our agendas for independent practice while defending our ability to practice safely in this capacity. I have been working locum anesthesia in many states across the US in a variety of practice settings and understand the benefits to patient access to care that we provide. I hope to add my past experiences and skills to the FANA Board of Directors and look forward to serving our profession in the State of Florida. We deserve so much more in the Sunshine State. 


 


Virginia Londahl-Ramsey, DNAP, CRNA, CHSE, FAANA

Naples, FL
(Candidate 4 of 7)

 

 

 

 

 

 Affiliation: Florida Gulf Coast University

Offices Held:

  • FANA Ad Hoc Patient Safety Committee, Present
  • FANA Communications Committee, 2018 – 2020
  • FANA DEI Committee, 2019 - 2021
  • NJAANA Committee Director, 2015 – 2016

POSITION STATEMENT

As a dedicated CRNA and educator, I am committed to advancing our profession and advocating for the highest standards of patient care in Florida. My experiences in clinical practice, education, and leadership have provided me with a strong foundation to contribute meaningfully to the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (FANA) and the continued success of CRNA practice in our State.

Throughout my career, I have been actively involved in nurse anesthesia education and clinical training, ensuring that the next generation of CRNAs is well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of healthcare. My work has focused on enhancing curriculum standards, fostering clinical excellence, and advocating for policy changes that support CRNA autonomy and professional growth. As a leader in a graduate-level nurse anesthesia program, I understand the critical role that FANA plays in shaping the future of our profession and ensuring that CRNAs continue to practice to the full extent of their training.

A member of the AANA for 30 years, and FANA member for the last nine years, my experience in program development, accreditation, and clinical coordination equips me with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing CRNAs in Florida. I have worked closely with state and national organizations to expand clinical training opportunities, advocate for patient-centered anesthesia care, and address legislative barriers that impact CRNA practice. Through these efforts, I have developed strong relationships with stakeholders across the healthcare system, positioning me to be an effective advocate for our profession.

If given the opportunity to serve within FANA as a Director, I will prioritize legislative advocacy, educational advancements, and professional support initiatives that strengthen the role of CRNAs in Florida. I am committed to promoting policies that enhance CRNA practice rights, improve access to quality anesthesia care, and support the professional development of CRNAs at all stages of their careers. I believe that collaboration, education, and advocacy are key to ensuring the continued success of CRNAs in Florida. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my experience, passion, and leadership to FANA and to work alongside my colleagues in advancing our profession. 


 



Theresa Reed, DNP, MBA, CRNA, APRN

Palm Coast, FL
(Candidate 5 of 7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Affiliation: Barry University

Offices Held:

  • FANA Government Relations Committee, 2023 - 2024
  • OSANA Board of Directors, 2019 – 2020
  • OSANA Nominating Committee Chair, 2017 – 2019
  • OSANA Wellness Committee Chair, 2016 – 2019
  • Ohio Opioid Task Force, 2019 – 2020

POSITION STATEMENT 

Throughout my career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), I have gained diverse experience across various settings and modes of anesthesia delivery in multiple states. Most of my experience was in Ohio, where I actively contributed to the Ohio State Association of Nurse Anesthetists (OSANA) in various roles, eventually serving on the Board of Directors before relocating to the warmer climate of the South.

Over time, I have become increasingly aware of the inefficiencies, inadequacies, and unsustainable costs permeating our healthcare system, as well as the lack of CRNA representation in leadership roles at key decision-making tables. This realization inspired me to pursue further education, earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on Healthcare Leadership and a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

I firmly believe that CRNAs are essential to enhancing healthcare quality and access and play a crucial role in shaping healthcare policy. With our specialized education, passion, and skills, CRNAs can make meaningful contributions to departments, facilities, and statewide healthcare systems. Elevating CRNA leaders to policy-making positions is critical to advancing our practice, and it is both my passion and my mission to advocate for this cause. I will bring this commitment to work for the CRNAs in Florida, and in concert with the other members of the Board, will continue to pursue the advancement of our profession relentlessly. 


 


Lori Tolson, DNP, CRNA

Ft. Lauderdale, FL
(Candidate 6 of 7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Affiliation: Barry University

Offices Held:

  • FANA Member Services Committee, 2024 - Present
  • FANA Government Relations Committee, 2023 - 2024

POSITION STATEMENT

The FANA Board laid out its Strategic Priorities in 2023, with its top goal to achieve independent practice and to increase membership by 500. Though this Legislative Session is not yet over, we have gained so much momentum that there is optimism in Florida that this will be the reality very soon. This has been the tremendous work of passionate people who are a team sharing the same goal. I was grateful to be able to share in building this momentum in September of 2024 by hosting a Membership Meetup in Dania Beach, with over 30 members in attendance. I participated in the Annual CRNA Week Proclamation request, accepting one proclamation in person at the City of Hollywood Commission’s Meeting.

I was honored to represent FANA at the Florida Society of Ambulatory Surgery Centers Annual Conference in July 2024. I am inspired by the great work of those who have come before, and I feel that now it is my time to help the good cause. I have a motto that sums me up pretty well: "Find your purpose, live it passionately." I have achieved much in my life, and it is attributed to not wandering aimlessly. I have been a college athlete, a coach, a nurse, a mom, and now an educator. Through all of these different stages of my life, I have worn my passion on my sleeve, making it evident that I am going towards a greater end.

I am grateful for the opportunities that being a nurse anesthesiologist has provided me: the chance to fulfill my calling in life, to reach my fullest potential, to be a patient advocate and community advocate, to seek out truth, and to be able to leave a legacy. The endeavor of our professional organization in Florida is to be “the indispensable resource for nurse anesthetists for accurate information, advocacy, and education for members throughout Florida.” I believe my strength in advocating for our profession has been demonstrated through my participation in CRNA Days, local Membership Meetups, and educating the newest members of our profession on our “why.”


 


Stacey VanDyke, DNP, CRNA, FAANA

Panama City, FL
(Candidate 7 of 7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Affiliation: Florida State University

Offices Held:

  • AANA Bylaws Committee Chair, 2020 – 2021
  • AANA Bylaws Committee Member, 2019 – 2020
  • AANA Resolutions Committee Chair, 2018 – 20190
  • FANA Leadership Development & Nominating Committee, 2021 – 2022
  • Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs, 2021 – Present
  • NBCRNA Continued Professional Certification Assessment Professional Practice Analysis Panelist, 2019
  • NBCRNA Panelist for CPCA PPA, 2019

POSITION STATEMENT

As a Program Director for a nationally accredited Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program in Florida and a retired United States Air Force CRNA, I am uniquely positioned to meet the challenges and opportunities facing our profession in Florida and beyond. My career has been defined by service—both in uniform and in academic leadership—and I bring that same sense of duty, advocacy, and strategic vision to the role of Board Director. Throughout my career, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to advancing the profession of nurse anesthesiology through education, policy engagement, and mentorship. I understand firsthand the critical importance of legislative action in protecting our scope of practice, ensuring fair reimbursement, and removing barriers to independent practice. Having practiced in both military and civilian environments, I offer a unique perspective on how autonomy, collaboration, and clinical excellence can coexist to drive the highest standards of patient care. As an educator, I shape the next generation of CRNAs, instilling the values of professionalism, evidence-based practice, and lifelong advocacy. I know that the future of our profession depends not only on legislative wins, but on leadership development, inclusion, and a unified voice within our association.

In my current role, I work collaboratively with faculty, students, and clinical partners across Florida—building relationships that I believe are essential for statewide influence and growth. I am prepared to bring that same collaborative spirit and mission-focused mindset to the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. I will prioritize legislative vigilance, student engagement, and member empowerment to strengthen our collective voice at the state and national levels. I will advocate for policies that protect our profession, promote workforce sustainability, and expand access to high-quality anesthesia care. It would be an honor to represent my fellow CRNAs and RRNAs across the state. I respectfully ask for your support as I seek to serve on the FANA Board of Directors.

 


 

 

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