Beyond Advisory Boards: Youth Engagement in Nursing Research for Coalitions and Action

Authors

• Dora L. Clayton-Jones, Marquette UniversityFollow
• Elizabeth Dickson, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center
• Kristen R. Choi, University of California Los Angels School of Nursing
• Kamila A. Alexander, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing
• Dawn T. Bounds, University of California - Irvine
• Rosa M. Gonzalez Guarda, Duke University School of Nursing
• Schenita D. Randolph, Duke University School of Nursing
• Christina Ross, University of Connecticut School of Nursing
• Luz G. Huntington-Moskos, University of Louisville School of Nursing

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-2026

Publisher

Elsevier

Source Publication

Nursing Outlook

Source ISSN

0029-6554

Abstract

Youth engagement in nursing research traditionally has been limited to consultative roles on advisory boards. This paradigm is challenged by highlighting innovative approaches that position youths as co-creators of research, coalition members, and active contributors across the research continuum. Drawing on the long-standing commitment of nursing to community engagement and health equity, we present case exemplars in a multidimensional framework for meaningful youth involvement, grounded in developmental, ethical, and contextual considerations. We explore the best practices and lessons learned from case exemplars that illustrate the transformative potential of youth collaboration in public health, chronic disease management, and environmental health research. Key themes include the importance of early and continuous engagement, tailored training for both youths and researchers, and strategies to ensure inclusivity and respect for youth expertise. By centering youth voices and fostering equitable partnerships, nursing research can produce more relevant, impactful, and sustainable outcomes for communities.

Comments

Accepted version. Nursing Outlook, Vol. 73, No. 6 (2026): 1-23. DOI. © 2026 Elsevier. Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Clayton-Jones, Dora L.; Dickson, Elizabeth; Choi, Kristen R.; Alexander, Kamila A.; Bounds, Dawn T.; Gonzalez Guarda, Rosa M.; Randolph, Schenita D.; Ross, Christina; and Huntington-Moskos, Luz G., "Beyond Advisory Boards: Youth Engagement in Nursing Research for Coalitions and Action" (2026). College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications. 1112.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/nursing_fac/1112