Setting the FNBN Elect 2026-2028 Benchmark for the Science Committee

FNBN ELECTS 2026-2028 FOUNDING BENCH MARK FOR SCIENCE PROJECT COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND OFFICERS

The Bench Mark For Science Project is a partnership with parks and recreations around the country to place storytelling benches in parks to raise the consciousness around the health sciences and community scholarship in culture and history. It is an intentional project to preserve the contributions of those lesser known individuals who have impacted our communities in extraordinary ways. The committee is comprised of five members who are a representation of nursing, medicine, public health and the community.

L to R: Denetra Hampton, Founder, Shequita Docken, Culture Scholar, Jacquelyn Claude, Public Health Scholar, Jamila Mott, Women's Health Scholar, Captain Ebony Ferguson, Health Science Scholar

The FNBN Elect 2026-2028 Benchmark for the Science Committee marks a critical step in defining clear goals and standards for scientific progress and collaboration over the next two years. Establishing this benchmark will guide the committee’s efforts, ensuring that research initiatives, funding allocations, and research recommendations align with measurable outcomes. This post explores the key elements involved in setting this benchmark, the challenges faced, and the practical steps the committee can take to achieve its objectives.

Understanding the Purpose of the Benchmark

A benchmark serves as a reference point that helps measure progress and success for For Nurses By Nurses Productions. For the FNBN Elect Science Committee, the benchmark will:

• Define clear scientific and research priorities for 2026-2028

• Set measurable goals for bench output and selection

• Guide resource allocation and funding decisions

• Foster collaboration across parks and recreations

• Enhance preservation of history and social impact

  
  

By establishing these standards early, the committee can maintain focus and adapt strategies as needed to meet evolving scientific challenges.

Research Quality and Impact

The benchmark must emphasize not only the quantity of research but also its quality and historical impact. This includes:

• Encouraging publication in reputable, peer-reviewed historical journals

• Selecting individuals with clear missions or societal impact

• Tracking contributions and other impact metrics to evaluate influence

  
  
  
  

Collaboration and Inclusivity

Scientific progress depends on collaboration. The benchmark should:

• Promote partnerships between universities, museums and parks and recreation

• Encourage culture and competence in research

• Support multidiciplined cooperation to address national challenges in historical preservation

  
  

Funding Efficiency and Transparency

Effective use of resources is essential. The benchmark should:

• Set clear criteria for funding allocation based on merit and potential

• Require transparent reporting of research progress and expenditures

• Monitor outcomes to ensure funds lead to meaningful results

  
  

Practical Steps to Establish the Benchmark

Creating a benchmark requires a structured approach. The committee can follow these steps:

1. Gather Input from Stakeholders

   Engage scientists, historians, and community advocates to understand priorities and concerns.

   
   

2. Review Past Performance

   Analyze previous committee activities and outcomes to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

   
   

3. Define Clear, Measurable Goals

   Set specific targets for research, historical milestones, collaboration levels, and funding use.

   
   

4. Develop Monitoring Tools

   Create systems to track progress regularly, such as benchmark and periodic reports.

   
   

5. Communicate the Benchmark Widely

   Share the benchmark with all stakeholders to ensure alignment and commitment.

   
   

6. Adjust as Needed

   Remain flexible to update the benchmark based on new information or changing circumstances.

   
   

Challenges to Anticipate

Setting and implementing a benchmark is not without obstacles. The committee should be prepared to address:

• Balancing Ambition and Realism

Goals must be challenging but achievable to motivate progress without causing frustration.

• Data Collection and Analysis

Gathering accurate data on research activities and outcomes can be complex and time-

consuming.

• Ensuring Broad Buy-In

Diverse stakeholders may have conflicting interests, requiring careful negotiation and

communication.

• Adapting to Rapid Change

Scientific fields evolve quickly, so the benchmark must allow for flexibility.

Examples of Effective Benchmarks in Science

Looking at successful benchmarks can provide useful insights:

• The Human Genome Project set clear milestones for sequencing progress, enabling coordinated efforts and timely achievements.

• The European Research Council uses transparent criteria for funding decisions, promoting high-quality research across disciplines.

• The National Science Foundation tracks impact through citation analysis and innovation metrics, ensuring accountability.

  
  

These examples show the value of clear goals, transparency, and adaptability, an addition to committee learning.

Moving Forward

The FNBN Elect 2026-2028 Benchmark for the Science Committee will serve as a foundation for focused, effective scientific work. By setting clear priorities, measurable goals, and transparent processes, the committee can drive meaningful progress in research and historical preservation.

Best,

Denetra Hampton, Founder