Samford University’s Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing is known for its commitment to advancing health and health care in a compassionate way, a dedication reflected both within and beyond the school’s walls.
One faculty member exemplifies that commitment.
Professor Jennifer Coleman has made significant contributions to nursing education, mentorship and the broader nursing community. In recognition of her impact, she will be inducted into the American Academy of Nursing.
In a recent conversation, Coleman shared what the honor means to her, to Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing and to the nursing profession.
How did you feel discovering you were selected as a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing?
I am humbled and sincerely grateful to be recognized by the Academy. I am in awe of joining this amazing group of accomplished nurse leaders. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to expand my work on policy and practice in the promotion of health equity.
I am so appreciative of my sponsors, Martha Dawson, prior president of the National Black Nurses Association, and Lindsey Harris, graduate of Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing and Health Policy Fellow alumnus of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Thank you for your faith in my abilities.
What does it mean to you, personally and professionally, to be inducted into the Academy?
This recognition is confirmation that all work and service are impactful. The American Academy of Nursing stands for the improvement of health, particularly the achievement of health equity.
I am committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive nursing workforce. My work includes mentorship from elementary school to doctoral students. I believe increasing diversity in nursing is key to improving health and achieving health equity.
Acknowledgment that my work to ensure equity, quality care and inclusivity for all people is in alignment with the Academy’s mission is a tremendous honor, personally and professionally.
How has your time at Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing shaped your work as a leader and scholar?
I am thankful for the opportunity to live out my calling as a professional nurse in an atmosphere of caring, respect and unwavering support. The school has fueled my passion for mentorship. I am proud to be associated with, and to represent, such an amazing group of professionals. I have the privilege of working with individuals who are dedicated to our founder’s vision of academic excellence, caring, compassion and individual worth.
How does this honor reflect the work being done at Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing?
At Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing, we nurture our students as valuable and unique individuals. We are committed to their development as competent and compassionate nurses who appreciate the individual worth of every person they encounter and care for. This recognition by the Academy validates the impact of our school’s efforts on the present and future health outcomes of all people.
What impact do you hope this recognition will have on the school and its students?
Our school was founded on the principles of academic excellence, caring, compassion and patient-centered care. We emphasize the importance of advocacy. I hope this recognition reminds our students that the opportunities to serve and advocate are endless and that their efforts can make a meaningful difference.
In what ways do you hope to continue serving the profession as an Academy fellow?
I plan to continue designing and developing creative strategies that help traditionally underrepresented student groups become socialized into the nursing profession. Increasing diversity in nursing is crucial to achieving health equity. I want to ensure that every person interested in nursing has the opportunity to reach their personal and professional goals.
What does this honor mean for Samford and the next generation of nurse leaders being trained here?
I hope this honor and the work of the Academy serve as a public statement that we at Samford and Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing value each individual and care deeply about their health and well-being.
I am proud of the accomplishments of our students and alumni. They embody our mission and values as they touch lives across the nation and around the world. Their service and impact encourage and inspire me to hold fast to God’s calling for me to be a small part of their journeys.
Coleman and other inductees will be recognized for their contributions to health and health care at the American Academy of Nursing’s annual Health Policy Conference, taking place Oct. 16–18 in Washington, D.C.
