Credentials: DNP, CNM, FNP
Place of Employment: Chamberlain University
Which Nursing Organizations are you currently a member of: Cleveland Council of Black Nurses, Sigma Theta, Chi Eta Phi, National Black Nurses Association, Greater Cleveland Nurses Association, Ohio League of Nursing, National League of Nursing, American Association of Colleges of Nursing
Board(s) currently serving on: Cleveland Council of Black Nurses
Tell us about your journey to the boardroom. What inspired you to seek a leadership position?
As a seasoned nurse and professor, I started seeking out ways to contribute time and my experience and expertise to the community locally and within my profession. After joining the Cleveland council of Black nurses, I was asked to chair a committee. I became very active and the committee became very productive! My peers suggested that I would be a great benefit to the organization if I served on the board! I had been seeking a place to serve as a leader and this opportunity was perfect!
What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?
I have been participating and becoming active in other organizations so that I can learn how the different organizations work and how the different leaders demonstrate their leadership style. I want to be able to observe and eventually demonstrate those traits that exemplify a great leader!
What impact have you had serving on a board? Example?
I believe my ideas, opinions and support of the organization has motivated other members to step up in their role and presence in the organization. As a board member, I have the opportunity to see the needs of the organization from a different view. For example, our membership may need more focus on increasing membership, I have been diligently recruiting not only nurses, but nursing students to increase numbers and energy in the organization.
What advice would you give someone going into a board leadership position for the first time?
Make sure you understand and support the mission and vision of the organization so that you can give genuine and productive feedback.
What are a few resources you would recommend to someone looking to gain insight into becoming a better leader and eventually obtaining a board position?
Resources within the organization is the most important place to go. Become active, provide feedback and ask questions and make suggestions.
Why do you feel it is important for nurses to serve on boards?
Nurses provide a large part of the health of our nation. Not only physical health, mental health and even financial health. Our input and expertise/experience is on a different level and is also looked at through a different lens. That lens is one that speaks for a large amount of people and need to be heard and supported.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to nurses serving on boards?
Our biggest barrier is not knowing that we can serve in that type of position. It is not a position reserve only for the business person or elite.
