Brenda “Jan” Prudent

Brenda "Jan" Prudent Biography

What value would you bring to the ongoing efforts of HSPA as the organization’s President?

I have served both as Director and Secretary/Treasurer on the HSPA Board of Directors and have been involved with the HSPA strategic plan’s development and implementation over the past four years. If I were to become HSPA’s next President-Elect, I believe my previous Board experience, along with my many years of Sterile Processing (SP) technician and leadership experience and other roles I’ve held personally and professionally, would provide me with the background and skillsets to serve as HSPA President, while continuing the work my fellow Board members and I have already begun with the strategic plan.
I am actively involved in my hospital’s day-to-day functions as both a technician and manager, which allows me to see the overall picture, struggles and needs of our staff and department. I serve with nonprofits in our community, on boards and for grant writing, fundraising and educational purposes. I am passionate about raising the bar for the SP profession. Although there has been increased awareness for our profession and I’ve seen a vast amount of scientific and technological advances during my 26-year career, I would like to see more progress regarding state-required SP certification, educational opportunities and professional recognition for our vital discipline and our critical role in patient safety.
Additionally, I have worked with our SP brothers and sisters abroad by participating in our Association’s international hospital exchange program and served as a subject matter expert for all four HSPA certifications. I have also served as a presenter, writer, editor and educator.

How has your previous Board experience prepared you to serve as the organization’s President, and what sets you apart from other potential nominees?

I have served on the HSPA Board of Directors through the Association’s name change and four years of strategic planning. My Secretary/Treasurer position has given me new insight into finances and the numbers side of the daily processes behind HSPA’s operations. I have had the pleasure of learning from and working alongside others who have the same end goal of guiding our Association successfully and steering positive change for the profession. I have been able to see struggles and wins, which have helped me contribute to the Board and our profession, all while working with others whom I deeply respect and have come to consider part of my professional family. With each challenge I’ve been presented with, I have been able to take advantage of opportunities to further my education and learning. I would love nothing more than to continue to serve HSPA and its growing membership.

How would you support the current mission of HSPA?

Our mission at HSPA, first and foremost, is to promote patient safety. We accomplish that by raising awareness, sharing our expertise, providing valuable education, and networking with professional peers across the world. Getting there is a team effort; I value each person and feel that everyone has something to contribute. Our responsibility is to every patient, and we are their advocates. I advocate, collaborate, educate, communicate, develop and network with others, however and whenever possible. I believe in our cause and mission and am humbled and honored to now be considered for HSPA presidency.

Describe any unique qualifications such as leadership, life, and business expertise that may set you apart from other candidates and position you as an effective President.

Aside from my 26 years in the Sterile Processing profession (11 of those serving in management positions), I also have 14 years of retail management/business experience. I have served the public and on community boards, written and received grants, taught classes, and interacted with other professionals nationally and internationally. Additionally, I have experienced life-altering events, which have allowed me to deepen my compassion and empathy for others.
I am honest, trustworthy, fair and nonjudgmental and look at all situations from both sides and the middle of the spectrum. I believe in diversity and subscribe to the belief that everyone has different values and strengths to contribute. I continue to seek new educational and growth opportunities each day and believe that nothing is impossible as long as we believe in our mission and goals and continue pressing forward.