Southern University in Baton Rouge is making history by welcoming 19 Black men into its nursing program—the largest cohort of Black male nursing students in the school's history. In a profession where only 13% of nurses are men, this milestone not only sets a new record but also challenges longstanding stereotypes and promises to reshape healthcare in communities of color. As Sandra Brown, Dean of the College of Nursing and Allied Health, emphasized, "Public trust begins with public health. So, you have to have individuals who are culturally diverse to be able to relate and impact the outcomes of the patients they serve."
This achievement was made possible through the "Nursing Workforce Diversity Program," funded by a $349,000 grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration. The initiative aims to boost enrollment and retention of men in nursing, addressing the lack of diversity in the field. The impact goes beyond numbers; these students are redefining perceptions of Black men in healthcare.
John Babin, one of the nursing students, sees the program as a game-changer. "Black men can do other things besides football and basketball or being incarcerated in places like prison, so this is seen as an option that they can have," he said, emphasizing the broader significance of their presence in the program. Corey Clinton echoes this sentiment, describing their experience at Southern University as "one of a kind."
As these students progress through their studies, they are not only learning but also serving as role models. Ray Washington, another student, notes, "We have the opportunity to decide our own story and not allow the world to make that decision for us." This milestone at Southern University is not just changing one program; it's paving the way for a healthcare system that truly reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.
Link: Essence
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