Why choose NAFA? Three reasons.
Excellence & Innovation
As the continuing education division of VCU Nurse Anesthesia and Cardiovascular Perfusion, NAFA VCU builds on a legacy of innovation that includes pioneering graduate nurse anesthesia education, the nation's first DNAP degree, the first CRNA-specific microcredential, and Virginia's first cardiovascular perfusion program.
Clinical Excellence & Academic Rigor
NAFA VCU delivers high-quality education grounded in clinical expertise, evidence-based practice, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes.
Fun & Camaraderie
NAFA VCU conferences bring healthcare professionals together in memorable destinations like Disney World, the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando, Alaska, and Snowshoe Mountain Resort to learn, connect, and recharge while earning high-quality approved continuing education credits.
CRNA Continuing Education
NAFA VCU educational activities are designed to meet MAC Ed (formerly Class A) requirements for nurse anesthesiologists. Our programs are developed to support evidence-based practice, patient safety, and lifelong learning.
Current NBCRNA Continuing Certification Requirements
- 60 MAC Ed credits every 4-year cycle
- 40 MAC Dev credits every 4-year cycle
- Two-Year CPC Check-In for CRNAs completing CPC cycles
In planning our CE offerings, careful consideration is given to include content relevant to current nurse anesthesia practice and professional certification requirements.
Cardiovascular Perfusion Continuing Education
NAFA VCU is proud to expand its continuing education portfolio to include educational opportunities for cardiovascular perfusionists.
Applicable programs are designed to qualify for Category I Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP). Perfusionists should refer to individual conference and workshop materials for specific CEU designation and approval information.
In Appreciation of Col. Herbert T. Watson
Col. Watson founded NAFA in 1977 and managed the organization for more than three decades before donating it to VCU Nurse Anesthesia. Watson is a professor emeritus and past chair of the Department. He became chairman in 1977 after a distinguished career in the United States Air Force. Under his leadership, the department gained national recognition as a leader among nurse anesthesia educational programs.
His philanthropy is acknowledged with the 2013 creation of the “Herbert T. Watson Endowed Professorship.” VCU continues a legacy of excellence, having been consistently ranked among the Top 10 nurse anesthesia graduate programs by U.S. News & World Report since the rankings were first introduced in 1998. Read more about Col. Watson's extraordinary life and spirit.
