Black Nurses Rock Magazine Summer edition

I S S U E 3 , S U M M E R 2 0 1 6

FAMILYAFFAIR

GETTING THROUGH NURSING SCHOOL

REGISTER for theConvention

Win a

ALASKAN CRUISE! pg. 32

Free

NEW BNR CHAPTERSINSIDE LOOK

pg. 14

pg. 34

pg. 16

2 BNR MAGAZINE Summer 2016

www.blacknursesrock.com

H I G H B L O O D P R E S S U R E

I S E V E N R I S K I E RDementia and stroke are more likely to affect people with high blood pressure.

Don’t take unnecessary risks. Keep your blood pressure under control.

L E A R N M O R E A T

Mind Your Risks.nih.gov

Founder/CEODr. Romeatrius MossEditor in Chief

Executive BoardMrs. Romeatrius Moss, DNP, MSN, RN, APHN-BC

President [email protected]

Mr. Bruce Walker, MSN, RN

Vice [email protected]

Mrs. Jonanna Bryant, DNP©, MSN, RN

[email protected]

Ms. Beverly Morgan, BS, LPN, CIC, WCC, GC

[email protected]

Ms. Ebone' Williams, MSN, RN

[email protected]

Board of Directors Ms. Jazmin Richardson, BSN©, SN

Co-Director of [email protected]

Ms. Cynthia Minor, EdD©, MSN, RN, BA

Director of [email protected]

Ms. Ottamissiah Moore, BS, LPN, CHPLN, WCC, GC, CSD-LTC

Director of Professional [email protected]

Mrs. Rhonda Ruben, BAAS, LVN

Director of Health and [email protected]

Ms. LaTonya Mims, CRNA

Chapter Development [email protected]

General Board MemberMs. Janine White-Cummings, PhD, RN, MBA

Mrs. Mia Johnson, BSN, RN

Ms. Mary Overall, MSN, BS, RN

Advisory Board MembersRev. Deidre Walton, JD, MSN, RN-PHN

Ms. MeKeshia Bates, DNP, MPH, MSN RN, PMHNP-BC

Ms. Jazmin Shawell-Wallace, BSN, RNC-OB

Ms. Kimaka Bowens, FNP-BC

Ms. Tonya Washington-Nash, PhD©, MSN, RN, PLNC

Ms. Cindy Broadus, RN, BSHA, LNHA, CLNC, CLNI

Angela WeathersbyConference Coordinator

Carissa Bolden, RN

Cruise Coordinator

Renée Walker Proofreader/Editor

Lori C. SloughParalegal

Kevin VainCreative DirectorKDV Design & Associates, LLCwww.kdvdesign.com

BNR exists as a catalyst to empower nurses, revolutionize the profession of nursing, and educate the community.

BNR is a professional organization with a focused purpose on nursing leadership by empowering and developing strategic measures that work to serve and transform the community through awareness.

The Black Nurses Rock (BNR) magazine is a quarterly electronic magazine by the Black Nurses Rock organization. It is distributed as a benefit of membership to all it’s members. A member e-subscription rate of $10 per year is included in BNR membership dues. The

institutional subscription rate is $30 per year (Canada/Mexico: US$36 per year; foreign: US$49 per year).

Copyright 2016, BNR. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission.

06

08

12

14

16

22

25

26

28

32

34

CONTENTS

Top 5 Tips For Graduate School Successby Jazmin Shawell

Lateral/Horizontal Violence & Bully-ing Awarness by Cynthia Minor

From Nurse Aide To Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) By Bridgette, Jenkins

BNR Chapters

Family Affair - Getting Through Nursing SchoolInterview

2016 SummerFashion

The Heart of the MatterMiss Black Alabama

2016 ConventionHighlights

Dr. Richard Smith

Win A FREEAlaskan Cruise

ConventionRegistration Form

Spring 2016 BNR MAGAZINE 1

I S S U E 2 , S P R I N G 2 0 1 6

MEET CHANELWILLIAMS

pg.16

Welcome Black Nurses Rock

Strategic Partners!BNR CruiseHighlights pg. 5

FromPenitentiary to Doctorate pg. 22

JOIN BLACK NURSES ROCK pg.7

DRIVEN: The Carlisa Brown Story pg.14

ConferenceHIGHLIGHTS

Inside pg.30



WelcomeI am thrilled of

how fast we are growing the potential for this group and what we can accomplish is phenomenal! Words cannot express how proud I am to lead this national

organization. Our board members work for YOU to deliver the best benefits for your

hard earn dollar! This Summer edition is dedicated to our paid members and we wanted

to outline a few of the membership benefits.

Tuition Discount: Paid members can get up to 40% on our partnering universities to further their

education. Current partnerships are with Chamberlain, Walden, and Drexel University.

BNR Magazine: Get

your quarterly copies of the Official Black Nurses Rock Magazine, delivered to your home, and read inspirational stories and learn more about events and our partners.

BNR University: For an additional $25 a year, get access to over 350 CE courses to keep up to date with your skills and knowledge.

Professional Development Webinars: Get your weekly dose of professional and business development as Black Nurses Rock host webinars to inspire our membership towards wanting more!

Networking Cruises: BNR has lined up two cruises for members to attend for CEs and networking events.

Annual Conventions: Join the Black Nurses Rock community as we come together for knowledge showing, tool building, networking, and more during our annual conventions. The 2016 convention will be held in Chattanooga, TN and the 2017 convention will be in Orlando, FL. Paid members receive discounts to all BNR official events.

Mentoring and Preceptor Support: BNR help our paid members work through finding a preceptor or mentor as needed.

Scholarship Awards: We are dedicated to helping our paid members who need support financially, get it by offering annual scholarships. Deadlines are May 30th.

Join a BNR Chapter: Get affiliated with a chapter to work within your community to address health disparities in the Black community.

Nurse Practitioners Network: We want to be the powerhouse of information and resource sharing for our NPs! We have partnerships offering discounts in telemedicine software, etc.

We are also Proud Members of the: • US Black Chamber of Commerce • Mississippi Center for Nonprofits • American Society of Association ExecutivesOur membership benefits are growing monthly! We ask each paid

members to help us reach our goal of 5,000 members by August 30th, 2016. We can achieve this goal if each paid member recruiting one member to join! Let’s become the largest nursing organization for Black Nurses in the world!

Dr. Romeatrius N. Moss DNP, MSN, RN, APHN-BCFounder / CEO

Summer 2016 BNR MAGAZINE 5


Jazmin Shawell RNC-OB MSN

Jazmin is an active duty Air Force Labor and Delivery nurse that is currently stationed at Yokota AB, in Tokyo Japan. Jazmin is the CEO of Jazmin Nicole & Company. Blogger, Advisory Board Member, and International Regional Director for Black Nurses Rock Inc.

Connect With Me On Social Media:

Blog: www.iamjazminnicole.comfacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jazminnicoleandcompany/

Instagram:@therealjazminnicole_

Twitter: @jazminweb

TOP 5 TIPS FOR GRADUATESCHOOLSo, you are thinking about completing your Master’s degree.

You may be just graduating with your bachelor’s, established

in your career, seeking career advancement, or an overall

career change. You should commend yourself wherever you

currently are in your professional journey. Graduate school

is essential for career progression and as daunting as the

challenge may be it is feasible and worthwhile. However,

there are certain things that I wish I had known previously to

enrolling in my first graduate courses that would have saved me a ton of grief on this grad school journey.

PROOFREADGrad school will push your writing capabilities to the maximum. When I first started, I went in under the false pretenses that I was a decent writer. After all, my highest scores were always in English and Language Arts. However, never underestimate the

power of proofreading your document, or having someone else review it. It is important to remember that you are not supposed

to be writing as if you are talking in scholarly writing. Read every single thing you submit out loud at least two times before

turning it in. You will be surprised at some errors you will find in your documents once you hear it out loud. I swear by Owlet Purdue, Grammarly, and PERRLA to assist with the completion of my papers.

5TOP TIPS FOR GRADUATESCHOOL SUCCESSLEARN THE APA MANUALDo you briefly remember being introduced to this in your undergraduate English and Research classes? You know,

the blue book that you couldn’t wait to toss as soon as you

completed those courses! Well, don’t get too excited and toss

that manual out just yet. The APA manual will be your bible at

the graduate level. It is best to not only familiarize yourself

with it, but read it cover to cover. In all seriousness, there will

be no mercy for APA formatting issues at the graduate level,

and failure to comply will hinder your ability to graduate. Lets

be honest, grad school is very expensive so do not lose points

over APA errors and get your bang for your bucks when it’s

time to cash in on that top G.P.A.

“In all seriousness, there will be no mercy for APA formattingissues at the graduate level, and failure to comply will hinderyour ability to graduate.”

CONCLUSIONI hope that you avoid the pitfalls that I incurred during my grad school journey, and that these tips will help ease

you in your transition and prepare you for entry into grad school. A graduate degree is totally obtainable, it’s just a

different academic dynamic. I’ll see you on the other side!

“There are going to be some times that you will simply have to say no to others as well as avoid taking on too many additional duties.”

DON’T BREAKOne of the biggest mistakes that I made during my Grad school journey was “taking a break”. Obviously, life happens to everybody, but if you can help it, you should stay on the

course to graduate on time. While taking a leave of absence

is certainly an option, there are some universities have a time

limit on the amount of time you can spend on the completion

of your master’s degree. Taking a leave of absence sounds

a nice break until you return and you are under even more

pressure to complete your degree. Stay on track and graduate

on time. Put yourself out of grad school misery. Try not to

prolong it.

FIND BALANCEMy zodiac sign of a Libra makes finding balance very high on my priority list. Regardless of your sign, it is essential to find a way to balance everything you have going on in life. Many of

us are career focused, have spouses or partners, children, and

community obligations. There are going to be some times

that you will simply have to say no to others as well as avoid

taking on too many additional duties. You have to be able to

take care of yourself before you can take care of others. Do

not feel guilty about taking a step back or going on a much

need hiatus to keep everything together. Remember that this

is temporary, and there will always be opportunities to restock

your plate once you have graduated.

COST VS. REPUTATIONThis has been an ongoing debate for such a long time. I will give you my honest opinion and say that it is best to go for value in regards to selecting a school to attend. There is absolutely nothing wrong with investing yourself, but please do not break the bank along the way. Try your very best to avoid debt, save up, and develop a reasonable budget that you can use to finance your educational goals. If you are shelling out a ton of money, ensure that the institution has a reputation that fits your tuition bill. Student loan debt is a serious problem. Remember that you will need to pay that money back, and if this degree does not make a high paying job seem promising to you it may be necessary to scale back. Remember, grad school isn’t cheap!

Copyright: rawpixel / 123RF Stock Photo



LATE

RAL

It’s a team effort to bring lateral/horizontal violence and bul-

lying awareness to the forefront. There should be more and

frequent in-services, skit performances and demonstrations,

organizations speaking out, strict adhering to policies and

procedures with zero tolerance and involvement of social

media with various scenarios and examples.

Lateral violence and bullying is a critical and famil-

iar topic, but unknown if others understand. “What

is lateral violence and bullying?” Lateral violence is

also known as horizontal violence, bullying, peer

hostility, aggression, and horizontal bullying. It is

defined as direct and indirect behaviors or sabo-

tage of coworkers and students with the intent to

harm, control, diminish, devalue, stress or disrupt

(Bartholomew, 2006; Embree, & White, 2010). Lat-

eral violence occurs when groups or individuals

who feel oppressed internalize feelings such as

anger, and then inappropriately demonstrate these

feelings through destructive behaviors (Embree, &

White, 2010).

Lateral/horizontal violence and

bullying is a topic that is near and

dear to my heart, mind, body, & soul.

Being a survivor and conqueror of

lateral violence and bullying several

times in a few capacities of workplace

and academics for a long duration. Who

are victims? Victims can be staff, faculty,

nurses, administration, and students

(anyone). There must be a resolution,

diffusion, and end to lateral/horizontal

violence and bullying in the workplace

and schools, colleges, and universities.

Copyright: menuha / 123RF Stock Photo

LATE

RAL HORIZONTAL

Violence & Bullying Awareness

There are signs and behaviors of lateral/horizontal violence and bullying to

include: covert signs and behaviors are the refusal to help others, gossip,

spreading rumors, not approachable, demeaning, condescending, sar-

castic, insults, and belittling of others, non-verbal behaviors, concealing

information, and disregarding and ignoring the input of others.

Overt signs and behaviors of lateral/horizontal violence and bullying

include: in civil and hostile toward others, calling others out of their

names, bellowing, screaming, and yelling, and physical contact, blaming,

throwing objects and writing vengeance letters against others.

My thoughts are if people knew better and understood, then they would

stop and eliminate the behaviors. The destructive behaviors are taxing

and overwhelming on victims’ mental, emotional, psychological, and

physical health. It also affects professional, academic, and personal areas

of the victim’s life.

If a person has never been a victim, they could never, ever imagine or

relate to the situation. It’s disturbing to hear non-victims say, “Get over it.”

It’s not something that one just gets over…..it’s a process, closely related

to the stages of grief but not necessarily in the same order. Kubler-Ross

(1967) seven stages of grief (1) Shock and Denial-reality is denied to

escape the pain, and shock helps to protect one from overwhelming and

traumatic emotions. (2) Pain and Guilt- shock is replaced with unbearable,

agonizing pain and feelings of guilt because one wonders and search

within, thinking they did something to promote this behavior, and they

didn’t do anything about the situation before getting extreme. (3) Anger

and Bargaining- defeat, discouragement, and disappointment leads to

anger. To find a way out of despair, one may bargain with a Higher Being. (4) Depression, Reflection, and Loneliness – there’s constant periods of sadness and isolation. There is a reflection of the incidents within the situ-

ations, which results in feelings of emptiness, loneliness, and despair. (5)

The Upward Turn- it takes a while to get to this stage due to the physical,

emotional, psychological, and physical trauma. One begins an adjustment

to life and things become a bit calmer and organized. Symptoms lessened,

and depression lighter. (6) Reconstruction and Working Through- life

become more functional at this time; then the mind starts working again

with realistic solutions to the situation. (7) Acceptance and Hope- it takes a while to return to the person before the trauma and tragedy experienced.

However, one learns to accept and deal with the reality of the situation, and there is hope after the trauma of the situation.

Once a person experiences lateral/horizontal violence and bullying, their

life changes in various ways depending on the individual, the extent, and

duration of the experience. Some may become selectively anti-social,

non-trusting, isolated, bitter, stronger, wiser, low self-esteem and self-con-

fidence, empathetic, silent, and willing to stand up for others who may be experiencing lateral/horizontal violence and bullying. It really and truly

depends on the individual.

There is one thing known for sure, throughout this devastating experience

perpetrators, can strip the victim of many things, however, there are a few

things that are branded, folded, sealed tight and tucked away; it’s called

passion, dreams, desires, and goals. It may take a bit longer to achieve but

if one keeps moving on and forward there is nothing impossible to achieve,

Cynthia Minor Ed.D ©, MSN, RN, BA.

Masters prepared Registered Nurse licensed

by the state of Louisiana with 30 years of

nursing experience. Her nursing background is Maternal-Child Nursing. Cynthia has worked

in various capacities in the nursing profession;

staff, preceptor, charge, clinical supervisor, office administrator, perinatal clinician, educator, and entrepreneur.

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Mobile Number: (504)-908-8063

Cynthia Minor May 2016


• If it continues, it should be reported

following the chain of command

• If no changes or resolutions to stop the

behavior, please remove yourself from

the situation (transfer to another area,

change faculty, swap out students, etc.)

• In the midst of this situation/circumstance

it may help to seek therapy and that’s okay

because you want to keep a sane mind

• Talk about it with family and friends because

you need that support from people who

love you and have your best interest at heart

• If you have a Higher Being, Prayer Works

Listed are a few pointers to share with victims

of lateral violence and bullying:

• Lateral violence and bullying is

detrimental and treated as such

• Once it starts, try to talk with the

perpetrator, along with another neutral

person

• Keep a journal of incidents with dates,

times, and witnesses

• Know that others may see and know that

you’re a victim, however, no one wants to be

involved; no one will speak up or out for you

In conclusion, why can’t we work together and

get along? We all have a job to do, and we can

give skilled and quality work by working together,

uplifting one another, sharing ideas, giving sug-

gestions, teaching and learning from each other

and in the end, we can all be successful in our

performance and provide satisfactory service.

#teamwork + collaboration = success

#awareness + acknowledgment = end of lateral/horizontal violence and bullying



AGAINST ALL ODDS! FROM NURSE AIDE TO

DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE (DNP):

It all started when I was a little girl growing up in Mississippi, watching my grandmother care for my ailing grandfather. It was then at the tender age of

seven that I decided I wanted to be a nurse. Saying that my journey to receiving my Doctorate in Nursing

Practice (DNP) wasn't easy is an understatement. In fact, I have met and stared adversity right in the face as I matriculated through the nursing profession obtaining the highest level of education.

Copyright: peshkova / 123RF Stock PhotoCopyright: yanc / 123RF Stock Photo


ODDS! The journey to receiving my DNP, started when I was 17 years old, pregnant and scared. I was determined not to become the statistic everyone believed I would become. My first encounter with higher education was a struggle to say the least, but I pressed my way through it. One day, I had an encounter with myself and I made the bold decision to live my life for me and my daughter who was about to celebrate her first birthday. I wanted to make a better life for the both of us, so I enrolled in the nurse aide program at a local community college. I knew I was on the right track because I excelled without extreme effort. I took small steps to reach my education and personal goals. Obtaining my nurse aide certificate laid the foundation for my journey to the DNP. Each of my degrees was a stepping stone to reaching my ultimate goal a Doctorate degree in nursing. Obtaining my Asso-ciates Degree in Nursing changed my life as it opened up doors of opportunity for me, but I was still limited. I continued my journey toward success and received my Bachelors Degree in Nursing.

While working as a staff nurse in labor & delivery, which I loved, I noticed that my vision was rapidly deteriorating. It seemed like I needed new glasses every six months. After multiple visits to numerous doctors, I was diag-nosed with an inherited degenerative eye disease called Stargardts Disease. Needless to say, I was devastated! About the diagnosis! The doctors told me that most people with Stargardts are usually blind by the age of 30. I was thirty-five at the time of diagnosis and to add to my stress, I was going through a divorce. I went into a deep depression. What was I going to do with my life? Being a spiritual person, I screamed out to God, why me!!! This was a sad time in my life. But one day, I decided that I was going to enjoy my life until............it became apparent that I could no longer function safely in the high acuity setting of labor & delivery. I knew I had to change my practice area, so I went back to school to obtain a Masters Degree in Nursing.

I figured this would allow me to pursue non-clinical positions within the nursing profession. While I was enrolled in my masters program, I noticed that I couldn't see the board. I moved closer, but that didn't really help. I went back to the eye doctor to see if they could change my lenses again. It was then that my doctor told me that I was going blind and nothing could be done to stop it. I was angry, sad, and mad, you name it! Every negative emotion that existed, I felt it!! I cried out to the Lord, again "the word says that you knew me before I was formed in my mother’s womb, so you already knew I was going to go through this so I trust you", and I pressed on!

I met some naysayers while in school and one nursing professor asked me, "What kind of work is a blind nurse going to do?" Another person asked, "Why are you wasting time going to school, you are not going to be able to work anyway." which made me question myself. What was I going to do? I loved to teach my patients and the student nurses that rotated on our unit. That's it, I thought! I'm going to teach!!! Obtaining my Masters in Nursing Education opened doors of opportunity for me in academia. I was hired to teach in a LVN and ADN program and I loved teaching! In spite of all the things that happened in my life, I was in a good place. I recognized that I was enjoying life and happy! While enjoying life, I noticed I was experiencing headaches every day and nothing was relieving the pain.

I went from doctor to doctor trying to figure out what was going on. One doctor looked at my medical record and told me," I'm sure you have multiple sclerosis" which was devastating!!! In my mind I was screaming, not another devastating diagnosis! She sent me to the lab to get blood drawn so she could confirm the diagnosis. I went to the lab and I swear the technician took twenty tubes of blood!!! I went home, got in the bed and stayed there for a week! I was emotionally drained from all the bad news, physically drained from all the blood that was taken, dealing with pounding headaches every day, and spiritually empty because I thought God had forgotten about me. A week later, I returned to the doctor to get the results from all the lab work. My doctor told me she had some good news and some bad news. She said I didn't have Multiple Sclerosis which I was happy to hear (I thought). She went on to say that I did have Sjogrens which is a chronic, slowly progressive, inflam-matory autoimmune disorder. I really didn't know how to respond since I knew nothing about the disease. I went home, researched the disease, and cried myself to sleep!

With the confirmation of this diagnosis, I began to change my mindset, I had too! I started speaking pos-itive things about my life and health in spite of all the negative things I was being told and how I was feeling. The headaches didn't go away, in fact they got worse but I pressed on through them. I continued to live by riding my bike and running or walking for different causes to raise money and awareness for the disease. I was good!! Over the next two years my health began to decline just like the doctors said it would. My father died suddenly from a massive heart attack and I suffered two strokes. I woke up in ICU with everyone standing around my bed. I could hear momma crying and asking me to move my leg, I couldn't, and I tried until I cried! But wait, there

Bridgette is CEO/President of the Houston Chapter of Black Nurses Rock and CEO of her newest business Community Education & Training Centers. She also works part-time at Bell Tech Career Institute.

My photographer is Anika Maya (832) 641-3024. [email protected]

Contact me at: [email protected]

Dr. Bridgette R. Jenkins, DNP, MSN, RNFounder/President of BNR Houston Chapter

was some good news; the headaches that I had for three years were gone!! Thanks to my dear friend for getting me to the hospital within the allotted time-frame, I received TPA and expected to make a full recovery. After months of physical rehabilitation, I was able to return to work and resume my normal activities. Life was good and I was grateful!!

After graduating with my Masters degree, I really thought I was done with school. I had been through so much, I was tired! But one of my colleagues had this bright idea of us obtaining our Doctorate Degrees. Working within a school of nursing, our employer began a new Doctorate in Nursing Practice Program and offered free tuition to all nursing faculty that applied and were accepted into the program. She thought that we should enroll because in the very near future, a Doctorate would be required to keep our positions, obtain tenure, and or leadership posi-tions in academia. I thought, "Girl bye!" Before I knew it, we applied and we were accepted into the two-year program. I thought to myself, you have lost your mind!!!

I successfully completed the program!! Obtaining my Doctorate in Nursing was by far the most difficult task of my life! Health challenges during the program added to the difficulty. I was now being told by my physician that I had "Lupus like Syndrome". At first, I was in disbelief! But I knew something wasn't right but I pressed on toward my goal! I was plagued by pain, inflammation, and fatigue for most of the program. There were times that I wanted to quit but friends, colleagues, and loved ones encouraged me to continue. It certainly was not an easy journey and I struggled quite a bit. I can truly say obtaining my DNP was worth all the suffering and effort! I also finally stopped crying and feeling like God had forgotten about me. He has been there all along, keeping me! When my cap and gown came, I remember opening the box and tears of joy and gratitude began to flow........................It was His grace, mercy and favor that saw me through it all! That is why I lift my hands in total praise and I cried out Thank You Lord for all you have done for me!

My story is a testimony that with God, all things are possible. Nothing, not sickness nor disease, poverty, depression, loneliness, fear, financial hardships, teen pregnancy, nothing can keep you from reaching your goal!!!

Don't You Dare Quit or Give Up!!!!

Dr. Bridget A. Leonard DNP has been a nurse and avid promoter on the elevation of nursing practice for 20 years. Bridget began nursing in 1996 as a LPN, fast

forward she is celebrating receiving her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Madonna University. Bridget is currently the Director of Patient Care Services Nursing Office Operations at DMC-Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan, adjunct Professor at the University of Detroit-Mercy, and Kaplan NCLEX prep RN instructor.

Bridget began to realize to change nursing she would have to explore the world outside of her workplace where she could actively participate and provide a voice for all levels of nursing. She is currently Recording Secretary on the Board of the Michigan American Nurses Association (MI-ANA) and on the board of the Michigan Organization Nurse Executives (MONE) - Region 1.

Bridget has presented speaker/poster presentations at national nursing conferences on topics such as team building, staff recognition, fall prevention, and increasing lupus awareness. Bridget received the acclaimed Nightingale Award in 2013 as a Runner-Up for Excellence in Nursing Administration. In 2016, she was inducted into the Tenet Heroes Hall of Fame for her work with increasing Lupus awareness and creating the first teen support group in Michigan.

Bridget took on a dare from close friends to create a Detroit chapter of BNR and has not

looked back, she is so proud that the mission of BNR will allow her to continue to pursue her passion; while uplifting the nursing profession and eliminating community health disparities.

I am Renita Henry a Registered Nurse and the Founder, President and CEO of Black Nurses Rock Canadian Affiliate Chapter. I am the mother of a beautiful daughter and a

graduate of Humber College Technical Institute. Since graduating I have went on to study Diabetic Education at the Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences. For the past 15 years I have been an Acute Care Surgical Nurse in the greater Toronto area. It has always been a personal goal of mine to start an organization for nurses by nurses, and Black Nurses Rock has enabled me to make this dream a reality. Our collective mission is to inspire and empower nurses to achieve greatness. We provide mentorship, leadership and educational opportunities for nurses to take their careers to the next level. A larger part of our foundation is based on service to our respective communities. Canada is a melting pot of cultures so our efforts to improve our communities extend further than our borders. Our reach will extend from the Caribbean to Africa and everywhere in between. We plan on letting the communities who need most know that we are here, ready, willing and able to help in any way we can.

If you are a Canadian Black Nurse who Rocks we would love to hear from you. Email us at [email protected]

ChaptersReaching Our Community

BNR


Copyright: icholakov / 123RF Stock Photo

Copyright: rgbspace / 123RF Stock Photo

Meet The President of Black Nurses Rock Houston!

Dr. Bridgette Jenkins! Affectionately known as BJ or Professor.

Dr. Bridgette has over 20 years of nursing and

healthcare experience. Dr. Bridgette has worked in many different areas of nursing throughout her career, including; labor & delivery, OR, post-anesthesia recovery, cosmetics, long-term care, emergency room and academia.

Dr. Bridgette has a heart for people! She mentors students and nursing professionals as they matriculate through the nursing profession. She also has a passion for people who are struggling in life and spends countless hours ministering to those in need.

As the CEO & leader of the Houston Chapter of Black Nurses Rock, Dr. Bridgette is committed to changing the lives of the citizens in the Houston area and surrounding communities through service and education. Dr. Bridgette also plans to offer scholarship and mentoring programs to those seeking careers in the nursing profession and to those seeking advanced nursing degrees. BNR-Houston also aspires to offer services to the community before, during and after a disaster.

In her spare time, Dr. Bridgette can be found enjoying life with her beautiful family & friends. She can also be found participating in activities that bring awareness to diseases like; breast cancer, lupus, diabetes, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis and diseases that cause blindness. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society, American Nurses Association, Texas Nurses Association and the National Organization for Nurses with Disabilities Advisory Board.

“ Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work in Excellence.” - Author Unknown.

Pascha Williams is co-owner of Village Samaritan, LLC. A private duty homecare agency and co-owner of Village Samaritan Training Institute an accredited private post-secondary certification school that provides training for Certified Nursing Assistants, Phlebotomy, Patient Care Technician, and Electrocardiogram technicians. Pascha is a graduate of Tennessee Technology – Morristown where she received a diploma in Practical Nursing.

After graduation, Pascha launched her career as a nurse at the University of Tennessee Endocrinology as well working weekends at a skilled nursing facility. Upon her husband receiving his second degree his promotion moved this young family from their home in Tennessee to Atlanta Georgia. In 1997, the move to Atlanta was only the beginning of many professional blessings and accomplishments.

Pascha has worked in almost every area of nursing including; Staff nurse, Unit Manager, Care Plan Coordinator, Staff Development, to becoming the Clinical Nurse Liaison for a leading home health and hospice agency. It was her role as the Clinical Nurse Liaison that led the drive to own and operates her own private duty home health agency and now the launch of two certificate schools that she co-owns with her husband and business partner.

Pascha is currently enrolled in Excelsior College where she is working towards completing her Associates of Science in Nursing. She has no plans of stopping as she has personal goals of attaining her Masters of Science in Nursing education and leadership. Pascha believes it is her lifelong mission to serve and does so in her free time by volunteering nursing services at the free clinic and at one of Atlanta’s leading food and clothing shelter.

Pascha is honored to now take the lead in starting a local chapter of Black Nurses Rock in metro Atlanta.

Pascha lives in the outer suburbs of metro Atlanta with her husband of 23 years. They have three children, one new grandson and two dogs.

Melody Taylor was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. She was raised in a housing project called Jordan Park. Despite the probabilities, Melody did not become a product of

her environment. Yet, she rose above the odds and became the first member of her family to attend college.

Melody attended St. Petersburg College in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she graduated with her Associate of Science in Nursing degree in 1992. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Western Governor’s University and is currently on target to graduate with her Masters of Science in Nursing-Leadership & Management in the Fall of 2016.

Melody Taylor is Board-Certified, RN Case Manager in the emergency department at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, a part of Orlando Health. Her passion is mentoring low income women to self-sufficiency through her non-profit, Hopes and Dreams Team Inc. and mentoring AmeriCorps students through City Year Orlando. Melody is also a member of Sigma Theta Tau, Black Nurses Rock, and a volunteer member of the Health and Wellness Ministry at Majestic Life Church, under the direction of Dr. Riva Tims.

Melody is a mother of two adult children and five lovely grandchildren. Melody’s long term goal is to continue her educational studies and pursue a Ph.D. Degree in Nursing Education. This will further enable her to follow her passion for providing service to vulnerable citizens in Orlando, which is her reasonable service, Romans 12:1.

This little girl from Jordan Park has grown into a beautiful diamond with Black Nurse Rock!

ALL CURRENT CHAPTERS CITIES & PRESIDENT 1. Philadelphia, PA (Jonanna Bryant) 2. Dallas, TX (A’Litha DeVonna Jones) 3. Cleveland, OH (Constance Shannon) 4. North Jersey (Dionne Hendy) 5. Tyler, TX (Lisa Williams) 6. West Texas, TX (Tameka Polk) 7. North East ATL, GA (Brandy Brown) 8. Atlanta Metro Area, GA (Pascha Williams) 9. Orlando, FL (Melody Taylor) 10. Tampa, FL (Michelle Rhodes)

11. Shreveport, LA (Latrisala Bankston) 12. NYC, NY (Irene Treadwell) 13. Miami, FL (Venus Miller) 14. Bay Area, CA (Marshanell Wright) 15. St. Petersberg, FL (Altamease Caldwell) 16. Bradenton-Sarasota, FL (Shakaya Lovett) 17. Ocala, FL (Drumeka Rollerson) 18. Gainsville, FL (Dollicia Green) 19. Detroit, MI (Bridget Leonard) 20. Houston, TX (Bridgette Turner-Jenkins)

Copyright: meinzahn / 123RF Stock Photo Copyright: sepavo / 123RF Stock Photo Copyright: sepavo / 123RF Stock Photo


FAMILYAFFAIR

Advice for student nurses - Remain positive, eliminate distractions,

and stay organized!

What have made you successful -

My faith in God, positive attitude, and my ability and willingness to

communicate effectively with my superiors, peers, and individuals in each clinical setting,

have all contributed significantly to my success.

Barriers you overcame - One of the most difficult barriers for me to

overcome was learning to accept that everyone doesn't enter the nursing profession for the same

reason. While nursing is viewed as a very passionate profession, every nurse/nursing student does not

possess the same zeal for nurturing and serving others. Learning how to prioritize during unexpected crisis

during nursing school was another barrier that I had to overcome, however, effective communication aided

in eliminating such barriers.

What motivated you to push forward -

The death of my husband on August 22, 2011, left me a widowed, single mother to my then 4-year-old autistic son. While an LPN salary was sufficient enough to make ends meet, this unexpected tragic event propelled me forward. I decided very quickly that I needed more! I

GET

TIN

G T

HRO

UG

H N

URSI

NG

SCH

OO

L

School - Nicholls State UniversityGraduation Year - May/2016Program Type - BSN

Photo credit, name, and company - Brandon J. Stansbury, Creativity Ecstasy


wanted more, and I knew that I had what it took to get it done. So on August 22, 2012, one year to the date of my husband's death, while yet still in mourning, I walked onto Nicholls State University's campus as a full-time student; and the loss of my husband, the face of my son, and my unwavering faith in God remained my motivation.

When did you know you wanted to be a nurse? I discovered my love for nursing at the age of 21 while working as an Unlicensed Assisted Personnel (UAP at Robins Wood School in Lake Charles, Louisiana. While working there, I served individuals with developmental disabilities, mental illnesses, and some who also suffered from chronic debilitating illnesses. While I performed my duties with a lot of pride, I wanted to have a bigger voice and more influence in the care given to my patients, and this motivated me to return to school to become an LPN.

Favorite course in nursing program -

My favorite course was OB.

Less Favorite Course in nursingprogram - My Least Favorite course was PEDs! I can love the babies, nurture and care for them, but when caring for them requires me to stick them, I'm a big lush!

GOALS:Who is listed in the photo, in order, and their relation to you.

From the top(right) is me, Waletta Stansbury August. Second from the top is my sister, Sunjanetta Monette who graduated from NSU Dec/2013 with a BSN. Third from the top is my niece(my sister's daughter) Dariel Delasbour and fourth from the top is Dariel's BFF/roommate Dasianerra Mitchell, who will both graduate from NSU this Dec/2016 with a BSN.

What are each of your role in ensuring you all graduated successfully -

My sister Sunjanetta, who was also an LPN prior to becoming an RN, was already in NSU's nursing program at the time of my husband's death in 2011. Prior to Dariel's high school graduation in May/2012, she'd already established that Dariel and I were both going to NSU together for Nursing! She stayed with us, never letting up until we were enrolled, registered, and on the road to our goals.

Dariel and Dasianerra met on the move in day as roommates. We were all there, and our families bonded almost immediately, and both families accepted the girls as their own.

The first few semesters I assumed the role as the mother hen, as Dariel, Dasianerra, and I took almost

all of our prerequisite courses together. Lets be real, who's gonna skip class Monday morning after a Kappa party knowing that their Aunt is sitting on the front row waiting for them? Sometimes, I'd feel guilty for invading her college experience; however, she reassured me that it was sort of cool to have me there and seemed to be very appreciative of the accountability.

Dasianerra was the voice of reason, and she added balance to the group while remaining neutral throughout every situation. Her positive attitude and strict study habits were attributes that aided in the success of the group. Dariel was the realist! We could always count on her to shock us all back into reality real quick!

Dariel, Dasianerra, and I all applied for the nursing program together and was accepted the first time. And while I challenged my first-semester clinical courses and ended up a semester ahead of them, we were very involved as a group while working out together, encouraging and supporting one another, challenging, critiquing, enlightening, uplifting, and extending love to each other.

How did this pack get made? The pack was understood from day one! Dariel and I decided hat we'd take every class that we could together, and once we met Dasinerra, there was absolutely no question that she was on board to do the same. The picture of us featured on the cover of this magazine speaks volumes to our bond. And when I decided to include my sister and niece in my senior photo shoot, there was no doubt that Dasianerra would be a part of it as well. We are family, and our journey at Nicholls State University has definitely been a family affair!

Are there any other nurse in your family? My niece Abrianna Stansbury Clarkston is an LPN, and I'm currently encouraging her to return for a BSN. I also have several cousins who are nurses, Timothia Londow, Trinity McCurtis, Shanna Burrell, Trina Granger, Dion Blackburn, and Frankie Kirt just to name a few.

How are you all prepping for NCLEX Boards?

I've purchased and attended the Hurst review, and also I've utilized content through Elsevier, such as their NCLEX Review, Hesi exams, and one of their 3 day live reviews.

What specialty do you want to go in? I would like to begin in Med Surg.

What are your educational goals going forward?

I plan to return to Nicholls State University after gaining some knowledge while working in the clinical setting.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years - five years from now I see myself as a Psych Nurse Practitioner, working in the clinical setting with youth and Geri psych.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years - ten years from now I see myself owning and operating a facility specializing in the primary prevention of at risk youth, and caring for and providing services to youth in crisis.

IMPACT:How has BNR influenced you as a student? Regardless of who we are or where we may be in life, it is my belief that everyone benefits from inspiration. Witnessing the success of others through BNR served as an encouragement for me while inspiring me to stay focused on my goal as a nursing student. It also reinforced the "you got this" attitude!

How do you want to contribute and make an impact to the Nursing Profession -

As a nurse I want to help restore trust in the nurse-patient relationship. While I realize that there are meds that have to be given, charting that has to be done, and cures must be found, I know that as nurses, the success of these things will remain minimal without the participation of our patients. They are the reason we do what we do, and each encounter with them should be as if it's our last encounter with life. My philosophy in nursing is: Nursing isn't merely administering medication, bandaging a wound, or perfecting a skill, rather it is the art of caring for someone with so much grace and compassion that it alone has the ability to bring about healing.

Anything else you want to share with your fans?

I've been through a lot in my few years here on earth. I've been hurt and have felt pain, I've been criticized and rejected, laughed at and discounted, but no misfortune that I've ever endured in my life was as great as the misfortune that self-doubt afforded me. Believe in yourself! Seize every opportunity that is afforded to you! Rid yourself of every element of negativity that exist in your life, get a death grip on faith, stand face to face with hope and you will achieve! You shall conquer...

NU

RSIN

G S

CHO

OL



Dr. Jonanna R. Bryant is a recent graduate of Walden University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program. She is currently married to Deland L. Bryant and together they

have a son and daughter in love with two granddaughters. Dr. Bryant has a passion to reach out to African American students who are not in contact with African American nurses who have attained a higher degree in nursing. Dr. Bryant also has a passion to reach out to area churches and nursing homes to educate regarding health disparities in the community. Dr. Bryant, along with her Philadelphia team, looks forward to reaching out to the local Historically Black Colleges and Universities as mentors to its nursing students. Black Nurses Rock Philadelphia Chapter anticipates collaborating with other national organizations who are currently active in the Philadelphia area. Dr. Bryant and the Philadelphia Chapter are excited about making a difference in the Philadelphia and surrounding areas. Look for our own Philadelphia Chapter website, which will feature the various activities planned throughout the year. Please contact Dr. Bryant at [email protected] if you have any questions, or if you want to join the Philadelphia Chapter. We look forward to working with you in the community.

Dedicated nurse Lisa K. Williams is an active member of community organizations and founding CEO of Black Nurses Rock, Tyler, Texas. Born and raised in Tyler,

she is the daughter of Ellen Jean Williams and the late Arthur Lee Williams. Graduating in 1988 from John Tyler High School as an honor roll student, she attended Tyler Junior College and received an Associates in Applied Science in Respiratory Care in 2002.

A recipient of the 2012 Health and Wellness Advocacy Award from Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Lisa is dedicated to the field of nursing. It is her love, representing an incredible learning experience and wonderful journey helping others. She worked as a CNA since she was 16, and before acquiring her vocational nursing license in 2003, she worked for Truman Smith Children’s Hospital as a Respiratory Therapist, Gladewater TX, while attending college. She received her BS in Business Administration from Texas College in 2006, and she became a Certified Assisted Living Manager in 2009.

Currently, Lisa works for CVS Home Health Agency, Dallas TX, serving as LVN Field Nurse/Community Liaison for 2 years. She also worked as LVN Field Nurse for Nightingale Home Health. For 5 years she was Assistant Director of Nursing at Park Place Rehabilitation Center, Tyler TX.

Most recently, Lisa has founded Black Nurses Rock, Tyler, TX, serving as chapter president and CEO, with a mission to inspire and empower innovative leaders to serve and educate vulnerable communities. Currently, she is pursuing a Masters in Business Administration at Drexel University, desiring to become an entrepreneur as a nurse consultant.

Lisa is a member of the North Star Baptist Church of Tyler TX; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority; Top Ladies of Distinction, Rose City Chapter; Francis Shivers Guild #7; Waridi Consistatory #236 Golden Circle; Mellie Arps 195 Heroines of Jericho; National Council of Negro Women; Women in NAACP; Texas College Alumni

Association; Order of the Eastern Star, Chapter #55; A. Phillip Randolph Institute; Tyler Black Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Longview TX; and Metro Chamber of Commerce, Tyler TX. She is Chairperson for the Women in NAACP, and she has served as vice president of the Greater East Texas Black Nurses Association, Tyler TX, for 2years. She has also served as secretary for the Top Ladies of Distinction, the Eastern Star, and the Golden Circle, and as assistant secretary for NAACP.

Lisa K. Williams has one son, Antonio, one daughter, Celissa, and one granddaughter, Catilyn. She lives by the philosophy embodied in that famous quotation: “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.”

Chapters

BNR

CHAPTER AFFILIATES 1. Chicago- (Moneik Franklin) 2. Little Rock, AK- (Channon LaRae) 3. Delta Area, AK (Yolanda) 4. Memphis, TN (Kiara) 5. Dayton (Tiffany Trent) 6. Jacksonville (Felicia Mallett) 7. Lakeland (Lakisha Bah) 8. Los Angeles, CA (Maria Dudley) 9. Delta Area, AK (Yolanda White) 10. Middleton, DE (Nishelle Hines) 11. Indianapolis (Amanda Boyd) 12. Baton Rouge, LA (Nicole Thomas) 13. Lafayette, LA (Rontel Prudhomme-Eaglin) 14. Valdosta, GA (Zakiyyah Weatherspoon) 15. New England (Donnell Carter) 16. Baltimore, MD (Charlene Harrod-Owuamana) 17. Jackson, MS (Michael Jones) 18. South Jersey (Tia Pierce) 19. Long Island, NY (Angela Jourdain) 20. Buffalo, NY (Adair Fields) 21. Dayton, OH (Tiffany Trent) 22. Columbus, OH (Ahquilah Floyd and Kasha Kyles) 23. Cincinnati, OH (Christina Jordan) 24. Harrisburg, PA (Emikah Makor) 25. Charleston, SC (Maurice Scott) 26. Memphis, TN (Kiara Evans) 27. Ft. Worth, TX (Lynnette Checks) 28. Austin/Round Rock, TX (Sabrina Gooden-Poole) 29. Beaumont, TX (Rhonda Reuben) 30. Richmond, VA (Ashley Hancock)

INTERNATIONAL AFFILATE: Canada -Renita Henry Japan – Jazmin Shawell


Ocala Florida PresidentDrumeka Rollerson

I am a wife and a mother of three sons Andre 22, Jacarey 15, and Caleb 9. Recently my oldest made

me a Nonnie to a handsome grandson AJ who is 5 months that I love dearly. In 1993 I became a CNA while working on my goal as an RN. My CNA job was not a good experience for me so I changed careers and went into Banking and then customer service. Tired of having just enough I decided to get back into school and follow my childhood dreams. In 2005 I graduated from the Practical Nursing Program and in 2009 I completed the LPN to ADN bridge program. In 2010 I completed my AA degree. Currently, I'm enrolled in the College of Central Florida BSN program scheduled to graduate May 2017. My educational career goal is to continue on into a Masters Program immediately after obtaining my Bachelors. I currently work in Intensive Critical Care. Before deciding to start a BNR chapter in Ocala, FL I've always given back to my community such as providing Thanksgiving baskets to the needy Christmas gifts for the kids & in 2012 I co-founded a group called Sisters on a fit mission to help encourage, inspire, and motivate women to take care of the health.

Michelle Greene Rhodes, RN, MHS, CCM, CMCN graduated from Florida A&M University in Fall of 1995 with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing. She also attended The

University of Central Florida and obtained her Masters in Health Administration in Fall 2001 from there. Michelle has worked over 20 years in the managed care arena for health care organizations such as Travelers, LifePath Hospice, Veterans Affairs Medical Center and now Florida Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Her specialty as a Managed Care Nurse allows her to assist her organization in providing quality care while managing costs, creating innovative ways to save costs, and maximization of the health care dollar.

As a former member of the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA), and The American Nurses Association (ANA) Michelle is familiar with the coordination and collaboration needed to host community service events. She is hands on and loves to give to her community.

Michelle is a natural team leader and motivator and enjoys helping others reach their full potential. She is a certified life coach and enjoys reading and providing education around health and wellness. In her downtime you can find Michelle enjoying her husband, 12 year old son and baby girl, Ali (due in May). Michelle's favorite place is the beach, Clearwater, St. Petersburg Beach or Jamaica, it does not matter!. She feels it exhibits one of God's greatest creations, the ocean. A native Floridian and beach bum at heart!#giveandyoushallreceive #serve #Tampa

FIND A BNR CHAPTER NEARYOU BY GOING TO


JOIN

TOD

AYCopyright: sepavo / 123RF Stock Photo



BLACK NURSES ROCK MEMBERS:

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AN EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH DREXEL UNIVERSITY ONLINE

I was so pleased with earning my BSN online at Drexel that I went on to earn a master’s online, too.

Tameeka Banks-Jenkins, RN, BSN, MSNBS in Nursing ‘11 MSN in Nursing Education’13

GET STARTED TODAY:

ONLINE.DREXEL.EDU/BNR

Contact your Partnership Liaison: Lauren Gardner | 215.571.3456 | [email protected]

Additional benefits for military servicemembers, veterans and their immediate family

10-40% new student partner tuition savings for you and your immediate family

Dedicated support from enrollment to graduation

No application fee, deferred billing options available

OVER 140 ONLINE DEGREES AND CERTIFICATES INCLUDING:

RN to BSN

MSN: Clinical Nurse Leader

MSN: Nursing Education

Doctor of Nursing Practice

MSN: Leadership in Health Systems Mgmt.

MSN: Innovation

EMPOWERINSPIRE

DEVELOP

1

2

3

4

5

WHAT WE OFFER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSES

PRECEPTOR & MENTORING

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BLACK NURSES ROCK UNIVERSITYAs a member of Black Nurses Rock, you receive Continuing Education Courses at $25 a year to help you learn the latest technology, maintain your license and advance your career. Required Annual Training will be provided and assigned through BNR University.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The mission of Black Nurses Rock is to help nurses aspire greatness and a percentage of all membership fees go towards providing scholarships to driven nurses in financial hardship. All scholarships will be awarded at the Black Nurses Rock annual conference. Scholarship amount is dependent on available funds, but can range from $500 to $1,000 towards educational expenses.

JOIN OUR RAPIDLY GROWING COMMUNITY OF ROFESSIONAL BLACK NURSES by going to:


OUR PARTNERS

CONNECTING PROFESSIONALBLACK NURSES




2016 SUMMER

FASHION

Copyright: ginosphotos / 123RF Stock Photo

2016

BNRCATALOG

ORDER TODAY ON THE BNR STORE PROMOwww.blacknursesrock.com



2017 WALL CALENDAREXCLUSIVE

Male Nurse Profilesand BNR Special Dates

Order yours at: www.blacknursesrock.com

Heart OF THE MATTER

THE

Miss Black Alabama 2016Travel nurse, scholar, and pageant

queen, 26-year-old LaQuitta PerShai Wilkins enjoys helping to restore others to health and improv-ing their quality of life. The Alicev-ille, Alabama, native contributes her success to the “watchful eyes” of her mother, Robbie Wilkins, and older sister, Fredia. After graduating from Sparkman High School in 2007, ranking among the top of her class and earning several awards, “Shai” knew she couldn’t stop there. In 2007, she accepted an offer to attend Mississippi State University on both an athletic scholarship.

Later, she transferred to Belmont University in Nashville, where she earned the Academic All-Conference Award in 2009 and 2011. She also

completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing there in 2012, which set her up to

life-changing experiences at seven hospitals across the US.

While working as a pediatric intensive care registered nurse, Shai balances her title as Miss Black Alabama USA 2016. With her platform, “The Heart of the Matter”, Shai’s focus is to bring awareness to all communities regarding health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and hyper-tension. With Alabama being placed in the top five states with high rates of individuals with obesity, her aim is to help educate on prevention and man-agement of health issues that accompany living an unhealthy lifestyle.

During her reign as Miss Black Alabama USA, Shai has volunteered at numerous schools, speaking to help build confidence and self-esteem in kids, and also reading with them. One of her best moments during this journey was walking alongside John Lewis, an American politician, and civil rights leader, during the Selma March Bridge Crossing Reenactment.

As a leader in her community, it is Shai’s life ambition to continue to strive for excellence in all areas, no matter what challenges that she might face. Shai is an activist at heart and a great role model to all whom she encounters.

WALLENA GOULD1.0 Mentoring the Pipeline of Black CRNAs

ROWENA ELLIOTT 5So You Want to be a Leader? : Exploring the Characteristics of Exemplary Leaders

ROWENA ELLIOTT 4 Delirium, Depression, and Dementia in the Older Adult: What is the Difference?

ROMEATRIUS MOSSImportance of Marketing and Branding for Nurses

ROMEATRIUS MOSSCollaborative Partnership Building

HELENA KWAKWA, MDfor Friday, October 21, 2016, between 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

COURTNEY NYANGE0.5 Exercising During Pregnancy: Why we should encourage Women to do it

NECA SMITH1.0 The Empowered Black Nurse: Mastering the Mindset for Career Growth

MISSY WADFORD1.0 Ostomies…Hospital to Home…It’s In The Bag!

RICKI GARRETTBusiness Etiquette: How to outclass the competition

BRIDGETE LEONARD Spreading Your Wings: Life with Lupus through Eyes of a Rehabilitation Nurse Lupus Warrior

The ELNEC training will be provided Friday, October 21, 2016 from 8 am to 6pm

SnapMD Presentation on Telemedicine and Caring for our Patients

Grant Writing Workshop for Nurses – 4 hours long 2-days

2016 CONVENTIONHIGHLIGHTS

Leadership Development – 2 hours long

HPV Presentations -AHEC sponsor

National Kidney Foundation – Kidney Disease in the Black Community

Office of Minority Health -Community Engagement

Infusion Nurse Society -Presenting New Guidelines

Grant Writing Workshop

Conversation Maps Training: Managing Diabetes (Sponsor: MERCK)

Helena Kwakwa, MD for Saturday, October 22, 2016, between 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

JOANNE SYLVESTER 1.0 A Journey to Becoming a Great Leader: Using your worth to substantiate equal opportunities in your career

ROWENA ELLIOTT 1So…You Want to Go Back to School: Which Degree Option is Best for You?

ROWENA ELLIOTT 2Chronic Kidney Disease: The Basics

EBONE’ WILLIAMS 3.0 Bootcamp: Documentation

DELAYNA WATKINS 2.0 The Nuts and Bolts of Management and Leadership in Nursing

Legal Nurse Consultant Certification Course (additional fee)

HIV/AIDS Presentation: Sponsor Simply Speaking


As a nurse and professor, I have learned not to despise small beginnings (Zechariah 4:10). It is often said, “the struggle is real.” I would like to add, the struggle is real, but so is the victory if you persevere beyond the struggle. Like many esteemed nurses who came before me and aspiring nurses today, life for me was no crystal stair. I started in the medical profession at 18 years old. I began as an Orderly and progressed to a Central Supply and Sterilization Technician, later working as an OR Technician before moving on to an ER Technician.

AAt the age of 26, after an irreconcilable marriage, I was

divorced, depressed and a single father; yet, I aspired to pursue a career in nursing. I have always been a high academic achiever and I had never failed a course in my life until my first enroll-ment in the ASN RN program, of which I failed twice and failed out of Nursing School by failing my final nursing exam by two points. I had no mentorship or tutors and It seemed as though when I suffered my first failure, I suffered a string of loses and setbacks that resulted in me becoming even more depressed. My self-esteem was bruised, I felt hopeless, and my self-confi-dence was lost. I invested so much time, energy and resources in the RN program; leaving me with nothing to show. Following some encouraging words from my mother, lots of prayer and a supportive family, I remained determined. I prayed daily that the LORD would renew my mind and give me clarity of thought and increase my knowledge and understanding and over time; he answered my prayer! I went back to the same College where I failed their ASN Nursing Program and enrolled in their Allied Health program as an EMT. I completed it with the highest aver-age in the class. Still determined to be a Nurse, I later earned my LPN with Honors from the same college. After working as a LPN for 8 years I enrolled in Excelsior College where I earned my first RN degree and passed the NCLEX on the first attempt. At the age of 35 I joined the ARMY Nurse Corps where I am now proudly and faithfully serving as an Army Officer. While serving on Active Duty; I earned a second degree from Grand Canyon University. Over the years I have worked in all areas of nursing and now 25 years later, I am proud to be a Nursing Professor at Medtech College of Orlando. In addition to teaching Nursing, I also teach Combat Life Support, BLS, ACLS, and PALS. In an effort to help those who are less fortunate; I have also devoted my life to being a Youth Minister and mentoring leaders of tomorrow.

Through the Grace of God, I learned to turn my failures and disappointments in life into a positive motivation; now, failure is no longer an option! My personal relationship with God, perse-verance and pursuit for higher learning propelled me to become the Nursing Professor that I am today. My teaching philosophy and life lesson which I pass on to all of my students is simple; I (you) can do all things through Christ which strengthens me (you) and with God all things are possible. I am here for my students to help them succeed, because through my life experiences, I know that the struggle to succeed is real, but so is the success after the struggle.

RICHARDSMITHDR

empty space



CRUISE ITINERARYSunday: Aug 28th, 2016 1700-1900: All BNR Cruisers Arrive to New Orleans and Check-in 2000- 2200: Official BNR Cruise Welcome Reception: Host Courtyard Marriott

Monday: Aug 29th, 2016 1030: Ground Transportation to Ship 1100: Second Liners Welcome on-board Cruise 1400-1600: CEU Program 1600: Check-in and Welcome Kit Vendor Check-in Speakers Check-in Book with BNR Salon 1700: Official Welcome 1800: Group Dinner: Bring Business Cards 2100: Entertainment 2200: Pool Deck Entertainment

Tuesday: Aug 30th, 2016 Fun Day at Sea 0630: Morning warm up (exercise on the Lido) 0630: Expo area open to Vendors for assembly and setup. 0900-1200: CEU Program 1200-1330: Expo Open 1330-1630: CEU Program 1800: Group Dinner 2000: Group Photo 2100: Entertainment

Wednesday: Aug 31st Day of port 0700: Morning warm up (exercise on the Lido) 0800: Collect Medical Supplies for Transport to Free Clinic

0900-1600: Port Cozumel Senior Frog’ Shopping Free time 1600: Ship Departs 1800: Group Dinner 2000: Group Photo 2100: 70’s Party (Dress in your best 70’s outfit)

Thursday: Sept 1, 2016 2nd Day of Port Yucatan Mexico (Progresso) 0700: Morning warm up (exercise on the Lido) 0800: Collect Medical Supplies for Transport to Free Clinic 0900-1600: Port Cozumel Shopping Free time 1800: Group Dinner 2000: Group Photo 2100: Masquerade Ball/Awards Ceremony (After 5 Evening Dress) Mardi Gras Theme Line dancing, Networking, hours’ dourves CCL to provide an open bar.

Friday: Sept 2, 2016 Fun Day At Sea 0700: Morning warm up (exercise on the Lido) 1100: Gospel Explosion: Celebrity Guest and BNR Spokesperson: Crystal Aikin 1300-1500: BNR Photo Shoot (Models will be notified) 1500: Professional Headshot and Image Consultant 1800: Dinner 2000: Entertainment 2200: Ship Takeover

Saturday Sept 3, 2016 Port New Orleans, LA. – Departure Home


L E A R N M O R E A T

Mind Your Risks.nih.gov

H I G H B L O O D P R E S S U R E

I S E V E N R I S K I E RDementia and stroke are more likely to affect people with high blood pressure.

Don’t take unnecessary risks. Keep your blood pressure under control.


CRUISE2017CRUISE2017 REGISTER NOW

for the 2017 Cruise


Contact Ron Beverly at T: (267) 217-7667E: [email protected]

Up to 24 CE from Health Seminars and Professional and Business Development workshops.

Exclusive Entertainment: Comedians and Poetry shows nightlyCelebrity Guest Host!VIP Access for all Paid Members of Black Nurses Rock



Register for Convention

Registration Form

to attend the inaugural Black Nurses Rock convention! Join us as we gather to discuss issues that matter to our community. The explosive forum will inspire you to push towards your dreams. Events planned for you includes: • Announcement of the new Black Nurses Rock Chapters • Meet and Greet with your national Board of Directors • Meet many of the people behind the inspirational stories you have read about on social media • Get over 16 CEUs covering health disparities, current research, community health, and health promotion pertinent to the Black community. • Awards Ceremony to recognize nurses throughout the nation • Scholarship Ceremony to award deserving students with financial support for nursing school • Over 50 vendors as we host a job and college fair • Networking opportunities to connect with nurses and companies throughout the nation

Three Easy Ways to Register!• Online at www.blacknursesrock.com• Fax to (844) 533-0175• Mail to BNR Registration, P.O BOX 501,Enid, OK 73702. Note: Registrations received online will be confirmed within 3 days. Registrations received via fax or mail may take up to 10 days for confirmation.

If you have questions, please call our office at 844-267-7665 or fax forms to 844-533-0175

Full Name: ___________________________________ Credentials (exactly as you want listed on your badge) __________________

Address: ___________________________________________________ Telephone #: _____________________________________________

City, State, Zip: ____________________________________________ E-mail: ___________________________________________________

Guest(s) Name: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Before April 1st, 2016 After April 2nd - Oct. 1st, 2016 On-site

BNR Member* $300.00 $400.00 $500.00

Non-Member $385.00 $485.00 $575.00

Join/Register Option $375.00 $450.00 $525.00

Guest $250.00

One Day Only $150.00

CupCake Fundrasier $25.00

Additional Scholarship Banquet Tickets $50.00 ea.

For Reservations: 800-619-0018Mention BNR for special rate of $149.00 + tax.

Single or double occupancy

1201 Broad Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 | www.thechattanooganhotel.com

You are invited

Early Bird April 1st.

Registration

FORM

Registration & Vendor Setup October 19th 3pm-6pm

Welcome Reception October 19th 6pm-8pm

Family & Member Fun Night October 20th 6pm-8pmOff-site Fun and Food at Southside Social

Cocktails and Cupcakes Fundraiser: Wear Denim & Diamond October 21st 6:30pm $25 DinnerBenefits: Girls Inc of Chattanooga

BNR Scholarship/Awards Ceremony Saturday October 22nd, 6:30pm-9:00pmFormal Wear

Payment MethodPayment must accompany this form in order to process your registration. Make checks payable to Black Nurses Rock. A charge of $20.00 will apply to checks returned for insufficient funds.

Mail or e-mail registration forms to: Black Nurses Rock

PO Box 501, Enid OK 73702E-mail: [email protected]

Personal Check

Credit Card Account Number: Expiration Date

________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________Signature Cardholder’s Name (please print)If rebilling of a credit card charge is necessary, a $10 processing fee will be charged.

For Reservations: 800-619-0018Mention BNR for special rate of $149.00 + tax. Single or double occupancy

qq q q

Additional Events

Wednesday October 19, 2016 (Please select) Thursday October 20, 2016m 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. m 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Chapter Officers Training Registration Opens

m 3:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. m 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Chapter Presidents Meeting Attendee Welcome Social

m 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. CE Coordinators Meeting

(Preregistration required)

m 8:30 a.m. – Noon Keynote Speaker/Business Meeting Banquet Hall (Opening)

m 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. CEU Sessions

Friday October 21, 2016 Saturday October 22, 2016m 8:00am-12:00am (CEU Session) m 8pm-10pm Special Groups Events (Choose one)m 12-1pm (Lunch on your own) m Military m Communitym 1pm-5pm (CEU Session) m Educator m Entrepreneurm 6:30pm Cupcake Fundraiser: m Celebrity Benefits Girls Inc $25 Additional m Professional m Retired

m 8:00am-12:00am (CEU Session)

m 12-1pm (Lunch on your own)

m 1pm-5pm (CEU Session)

m 6:30pm Awards/Scholarship Banquet

BNR Registration includes: Full access to the conference and the BNR Awards/Scholarship Ceremony.

Cancellation / Refund PolicyRefunds shall be granted accordingly as follows: (a) requests must be made in writing; (b) a full refund will be granted up to 4 weeks prior to activity; less a $50 processing fee; (d) no refunds will be granted after September 22nd.

BNR reserves the right to cancel this activity at which time a full refund will be given to advance-registered participants.

Please check category

m Student Nursem Under 30m Male Nursem Over 40 years of Nursing




Documents

Black Nurses Rock Magazine Summer edition