The Montana Student Nurses' Association (MSNA) is a statewide voluntary membership organization composed of students enrolled in nursing education programs, leading to licensing as registered nurses, as well as already registered nurses continuing their education toward a baccalaureate degree. Prior to 1947 student nurses attended annual conventions of the Montana Nurses Association (MNA). In 1947 they formed their own organization, an affiliate of the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA). During the first years students developed bylaws and a structure for the operation of the organization and held two statewide meetings a year, one of which was held in conjunction with MNA. Since the 1950's a "Student Nurse of the Year" award is given annually by MNA which recognizes a student for outstanding nursing qualities, leadership ability, scholastic achievement and contributions to MSNA. By 1952 all schools of nursing in the state were represented in MSNA with a membership close to 100. Membership increased to 244 by 1960.. They published a newsletter, "White Caps" highlighting activities of students in the several schools In 1998 the name of the newsletter was changed to "Heart Beats" which had previously been the name of the MSU, Billings chapter newsletter. Several nursing students attended NSNA conventions during the 1950s but participation dropped during the 1960's and 1970's as hospital schools of nursing closed. Interest in MSNA increased during the 1980's and today there is a viable organization with chapters at the state's two collegiate nursing programs, Montana State University (MSU) in Bozeman and Carroll College in Helena. At both the national and state levels, students now plan programs and activities focusing on issues that affect them as students and future members of the nursing profession. Several MSNA members have served as officers of the national organization, including Wendy Blakley elected secretary in 1974; Lynne Riley elected to the Board of Directors; and Julie McGee, elected president 1992.