FAMU Made: Ian Tibbs turns passion for health equity into a purpose-driven future
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Posted By: Reginald Culpepper on May 14, 2026 Ian Tibbs came to Florida A&M University determined to carve out his own path. As a third-generation HBCU student from Nashville, Tennessee, attending an HBCU was never really a question. His mother and grandparents all attended Alabama A&M University, but Tibbs knew he wanted to create a legacy uniquely his own. “Growing up around strong examples of education and leadership from the generations before me inspired me to create my own legacy by stepping outside of my comfort zone, taking advantage of new opportunities, and continuing to grow into the healthcare leader I hope to become,” Tibbs said. That journey led him to the Highest of Seven Hills, where four years later, he leaves not only with a degree in healthcare management from Florida A&M University’s School of Allied Health Sciences, but with a clearer vision of who he is and the impact he hopes to make. In August, Tibbs will relocate to Denver for a full-time role with DaVita Kidney Care’s clinical strategy and implementation team. He also plans to pursue a master’s degree at Lipscomb University. “I am ready and excited to step into a new position so that I can learn new things and more about healthcare,” Tibbs said. “My plans to prepare for graduate school are to continue to build my leadership skills and learn more about the healthcare industry.” But the path to that future was not always the one he imagined.Before Tibbs arrived at FAMU, healthcare was not part of the plan. Initially, he intended to study business. But as the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Tibbs saw something different. “I started seeing everything happening in my community and realized I wanted to make an impact,” Tibbs said. “There aren’t enough people of color in leadership roles in healthcare administration, and I wanted to be someone who could help change that.” FAMU became the place where he transformed that vision into action. “FAMU taught me how to network, how to put myself out there and really step outside of my comfort zone,” he said. As an honors student, Tibbs found connection through the Honors Student Association, eventually becoming a peer leader who helped first-year students navigate the transition from high school to college. He also became active in the Student Healthcare Management Association, where he helped younger students better understand the demands of the major and the opportunities available within the profession. “Being involved taught me how important networking is, but also how important it is to help other people along the way,” he said. Tibbs carried that same commitment into his internships, gaining firsthand experience in healthcare operations through opportunities in Nashville and with DaVita Kidney Care, where he worked in procurement and sourcing. “I realized how important the behind-the-scenes work really is,” he said. “Making sure dialysis centers had what they needed to operate showed me how much strategy goes into healthcare.” That experience led directly to the opportunity waiting for him after graduation. Tibbs credits much of his success to faculty mentors who challenged him to think bigger. “If I had questions, ideas or needed guidance, they were there,” Tibbs said. “Having professors who genuinely invest in you makes a huge difference.” Pia S. Woodly, Ph.D., instructor, MHA residency coordinator and BSHCM internship coordinator, said Tibbs’ growth throughout his time at FAMU reflected both his personal character and professional promise. “During an annual Command Suite event where Ian delivered the invocation, it became clear that his faith keeps him grounded and serves as a strong foundation for his character, both academically and professionally,” Woodly said. Like many students entering college, Tibbs was initially quiet and reserved, she said. Over time, he became someone classmates genuinely enjoyed being around, known for both his warm personality and strong work ethic. “His exceptional work ethic and strong potential were further refined through his four professional development courses,” Woodly said. When asked to describe his FAMU journey in one word, Tibbs chose “rewarding.” Because somewhere between finding his passion, stepping outside of his comfort zone, mentoring younger students and securing a post-graduation opportunity many aspire toward, Tibbs built something lasting. His advice for students still finding their footing is simple: “Be positive, be yourself and don’t let nobody take your shine away.” If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Reginald Culpepper
President, Fulfillment and Web Services, HBCUCONNECT Clark Atlanta University class of 1998 Member Since September 2000 |
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