I chose to attend an HBCU because I believe that institutions like Morehouse School of Medicine offer an unparalleled environment that values and nurtures both the academic and personal growth of individuals like me. As a 59-year-old Black woman who has overcome significant personal and professional obstacles, I have a deep-seated passion for healthcare leadership, especially in the context of behavioral health and crisis system transformation. I have spent my career advocating for equitable access to care for historically underserved communities, and I believe that attending an HBCU not only strengthens my leadership abilities but also deepens my understanding of the unique challenges that these communities face.

My journey has been shaped by resilience and determination. Seventeen years ago, I embarked on a doctoral program with the goal of advancing my career as a therapist and marriage coach. Unfortunately, I was derailed by mental health challenges, including depression and suicidal ideation. Despite excelling academically, I was unable to finish the program. It was only through seeking help and focusing on my mental health that I was able to rebuild my life and eventually return to pursue my goals. As I move forward with my Doctor of Health Administration degree, I am driven by the lessons learned from these experiences: that mental health is a critical component of overall well-being and that systemic barriers and stigma often prevent people from accessing the care they need.

Since then, I have had the privilege of making significant career strides, moving from owning a small mental health practice to now also serving as the Division Director for Crisis System Transformation at SAMHSA. In this role, I have developed an HBCU initiative to expand behavioral health crisis response and suicide prevention services at HBCUs nationwide, as well as to attract more students of color to the behavioral health field. This work has deepened my understanding of the unique challenges faced by minoritized communities, particularly in accessing culturally competent care that addresses their specific needs.

Attending Morehouse School of Medicine has been a transformative experience for me as an older, non-traditional student. The sense of community here offers the support and accountability I need to thrive, especially as someone who has navigated significant life challenges. The environment at MSM recognizes and values my experiences as a Black woman, something I did not always feel in the predominantly white institutions I attended previously. HBCUs’ focus on celebrating culture, fostering a sense of family, and creating spaces for students to give back to the community, aligns with my own values and professional goals. MSM offers the perfect balance of academic rigor and a nurturing environment, allowing me to deepen my expertise while staying grounded in the cultural values that shape my work. These aspects of the HBCU experience are crucial as I continue my work in advancing equitable healthcare and increasing diversity within the behavioral health workforce.

The supportive and culturally affirming environment at MSM is a key part of why it is the ideal place for me to grow both professionally and personally. As Barbara Jordan, a graduate of Texas Southern University, once said, "What the people want is simple. They want an America as good as its promise." This powerful call to action drives my commitment to leadership and systemic change. Like Jordan, I believe in challenging the status quo to ensure that all individuals, especially those from marginalized communities, receive the opportunities and support they deserve. Attending an HBCU has not only reinforced my dedication to this mission but has also provided me with the unique environment, sense of community, and cultural grounding to further my goals. HBCUs have produced a wealth of influential Black leaders who have made transformative contributions to our country, and I am honored to continue that legacy. It is here that I am being equipped to make meaningful contributions to society, using my experiences to drive progress and create a future that truly reflects the promise of equality and opportunity for all.


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	Be blessed Tagged by Ralph White on 03/12/2025
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