How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN?  

I have been a member for almost two years and I came to know CBHN through your former board member, Dr. Auleria Eakins. After attending a couple of your community events and hearing the passion your Executive Director, Rhonda Smith, has for empowering the Black community…I was hooked.

What is your current profession? 

Registered Nurse; National Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Engagement for the Alzheimer's Association

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians?  

The primary barrier is simple: our healthcare system was never designed for the betterment of Black people, so the attempt to achieve health equity within a systemically racist, bias, and inadequate healthcare system is futile.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians?  

As a clinician and passionate advocate for positive health outcomes for Black people and the communities in which they reside, I consistently share my voice, expertise, and clinical leadership within spaces that are connected to and can positively impact Black health. For example, I sit on the board or volunteer my time to several clinical and social justice organizations such as Council of Black Nurses-Los Angeles, AARP National Nurse Leadership Team, Merv Dymally Institute @ CSUDH, Black Women Inflammation and Tau Study; in addition, I serve as an LA County Commissioner of Hospital & Health Care Delivery Systems representing Supervisor Holly Mitchell’s District #2.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do? 

God! I know he designed me for this purpose because it feels so natural and doesn’t feel like work.  

What's the bravest thing you've ever done? 

Care for my husband as he slowly transitioned due to cancer. As a former hospice nurse, I was not prepared for the courage it took for me to be brave enough to give him consent to “be at peace” and “let go”.  Knowing that he is now resting without pain provides a joy that far surpasses the everyday ache I feel due to the absence of his love in my life.

What's the best advice you've ever received? 

Know that you already have the tools you need to be anything and everything you imagine!