Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are an integral part of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP), and protecting their value and reputation is a top priority for our Executive Board. In today’s climate, however, the term special interest group has acquired derogatory connotations related to lobbying and perceived bias. Last summer, for example, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary removed organizational liaisons from ACIP workgroups, citing concerns about representation by biased special interest groups.

Given the increasing politicization of health care, NAPNAP’s Executive Board proactively explored options to more accurately describe the purpose and role of our SIGs. As part of this effort and in alignment with association management best practices, NAPNAP surveyed SIG leaders to gather their perspectives and recommendations regarding a potential name change.

Based on the survey findings, NAPNAP’s members-at-large, who serve as board liaisons to the SIGs, presented their recommendations to the Executive Board. After careful consideration, the Board voted to rename our Special Interest Groups as Shared Interest Groups. This updated name more clearly reflects the collaborative nature of these groups, their role within the NAPNAP ecosystem, and why members choose to invest in one or more SIG memberships.

While the name is changing, the SIG acronym will remain the same. Members will continue to have the opportunity to join and participate in SIGs at the same membership price.

Jan. 16, 2026