The latest recipients of Chamberlain University’s John-John, Big C, and Jacko Bug Scholarship share what empowers their journey to patient care and advocacy.
The journey to becoming a nurse is often filled with challenges, resilience and an unwavering commitment to patient care. For three Chamberlain University scholarship recipients—Latoya Williams, Jessica Biddle and Shamira Tellis—their personal experiences and aspirations have not only shaped their path to nursing but have also fueled their passion for advocacy and community support.
As Black women in healthcare, they bring unique perspectives to patient care and serve as inspirations for the next generation of diverse nurses. Their stories highlight the profound impact of scholarship opportunities in empowering future healthcare leaders, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
The Empower Scholarship Fund awarded over 120 scholarships last fall. Almost 70% of recipients identified as a person of color.
Addressing Disparities in Black Maternal Health
Tellis’ passion for nursing was ignited at an early age, shaped by her experience as a premature infant. Born three months early and weighing just over a pound, she grew up hearing stories of the compassionate care provided by nurses to both her and her mother. This early connection to the nursing profession inspired her to pursue a career in neonatal intensive care, where she hopes to provide the same level of support to families navigating challenging medical situations.
For Tellis, representation in the neonatal field is critical. She recognizes the alarming disparities in maternal and infant healthcare for Black mothers and babies.
She hopes to not only provide excellent care but also advocate for better health outcomes for marginalized communities.
“I want to be the nurse who helps parents feel a sense of hope, knowing their child is in caring and capable hands.”
Black women are two to three times more likely than white women to die from pregnancy-related complications. Here are 10 Takeaways on Improving Black Maternal and Child Health.
Breaking Barriers and Giving Back
Williams' journey into nursing is one of perseverance and dedication. A teen mother who faced societal judgment and financial challenges, she refused to let circumstances define her future. Initially aspiring to become a doctor, she found her calling in nursing through the encouragement of her mother, who told her, “Your past does not define your future.”
As a Black woman, Williams understands the importance of representation and mentorship. She strives to set an example for young Black women and is a passionate advocate for underserved communities. Through her nonprofit organization, she works to educate and support homeless individuals, victims of human trafficking, and single parents, ensuring they have access to medical care and essential resources.
“Being a nurse means I can advocate for those who feel unheard and unseen—it’s about more than medicine; it’s about making a difference. I made up my mind that whenever I had an opportunity to serve my community the way I have been served, I was going to pay it forward.”
Advocating for Equitable Treatment and Representation
For Biddle, the path to nursing was not a straight line. Initially, she pursued pre-med studies, driven by the desire to please her family. However, through personal reflection and faith, she realized that nursing was her true calling. Her decision was solidified through a defining moment in her nursing journey when she had to advocate for her father in the ICU.
He had been admitted with pneumonia and the flu, but after experiencing seizures and worsening symptoms, Biddle and her sister recognized the urgency of his condition. When healthcare providers were slow to react, Biddle took charge, demanding the rapid response team be called and insisting he be transferred to the ICU. Her quick action saved his life, reinforcing her belief in the importance of patient advocacy.
“I realized in that moment with my father that being a nurse isn’t just about medical care—it’s about being a voice for those who can’t advocate for themselves.”
Biddle is deeply aware of the disparities in healthcare and the need for culturally competent care providers. She hopes to bridge that gap by advocating for equitable treatment and representation within the healthcare system.
The scholarship she received reinforced her belief that she was on the right path.
The John-John, Big C & Jacko-Bug Nursing Scholarship has offered $37,000 in scholarship to 22 students since its inception in 2021.
Empowered by Advocacy and Health Equity
Beyond their individual journeys, what unites Williams, Biddle and Tellis are their passion for advocacy and their commitment to increasing diversity in healthcare. Whether through community outreach, patient education or direct care, they are dedicated to making healthcare more accessible and equitable for all, particularly for Black communities.
Meet more of the Empower Scholarship Fund’s Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients.
For more information, email the Adtalem Global Communications Team: adtalemmedia@adtalem.com.
