A Message from WeRPN: Celebrating Dianne Martin’s Leadership
Since joining WeRPN in 2013, Dianne has been a tireless advocate for the Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) profession. Her leadership has strengthened WeRPN’s voice across the healthcare sector and elevated the visibility, recognition, and respect RPNs deserve across Ontario.
Under Dianne’s leadership, WeRPN has grown into a strong, vibrant organization that has a clear vision, a talented and passionate team, and a deep commitment to advancing the RPN profession.
During her closing keynote at this year’s WeRPN Annual General Meeting and Conference, CEO Dianne Martin announced her plans to retire on May 31, 2026.
“This decision is both joyful and bittersweet. For nearly twenty years, WeRPN has been my professional home, my greatest privilege, and the work of my heart. Together, we’ve grown in strength, credibility, and impact – building an organization that continues to elevate and celebrate the remarkable contributions of Ontario’s practical nurses.” Dianne said in her social media announcement last week.
As WeRPN President Angela Corneil shared in her remarks following Dianne’s announcement at the AGM:
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Dianne for her tremendous leadership and her unwavering commitment to the advancement of the RPN profession. She has been a fierce advocate—never afraid to take on challenges head-on, always leading with courage, integrity, and tenacity.
At the same time, she’s never lost sight of what grounds this work: compassion and care. Her empathy for patients, and her belief in the vital role RPNs play in their well-being, have been at the heart of everything she’s done.
Thanks to Dianne’s leadership, WeRPN is in a position of great strength. We have a clear vision, solid financial footing, and a bright future ahead.”
While Dianne will be greatly missed by the Board, staff, and members alike, her legacy will continue to inspire WeRPN’s ongoing work to champion and support Ontario’s RPNs.
A formal search for a new CEO will begin in the new year, ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition of leadership.
Please join us in thanking Dianne for her remarkable service and congratulate her as she begins to prepare for this exciting next chapter.