2024 MMPNO Final Program

President’s Message

Keondra Rustan PhD, RN, CHSE, CNE,TNCC, PMHNP-DNP(s) President Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses Organization

Dear Members and Guests,

Welcome to the 75th Annual Scholarship Luncheon of the Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses Organization!In celebrating three-quarters of a century, we honor our commitment to nursing excellence and the support of future nurses. Thanks to our sponsors and donors, we continue to empower aspiring nurses through scholarships.

"I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back. Mentorship is the key to success, and that's the role we should all embrace – to guide, inspire, and support those around us. In doing so, we not only uplift individuals but strengthen our entire community."-MayaAngelou

We are proud of our rich history that reflects these values. Let us reflect on this, celebrate our achievements, and renew our dedication to nursing excellence. Together, we'll honor Mary Mahoney's legacy, shape a brighter future for nursing, and advance healthcare for all.

Thank you for your continued support. Warm regards,

Order of Program

Music by Danny Welsh, Saxophone

Welcome & ............................................................................................ Dr. Joycelyn Thomas

Proclamation from Honorable Mayor Bruce Harrell

Master of Ceremonies.......................................................................................... Xavier Orr

Remarks.................................................................................................. Dr. Keondra Rustan

Song............................................................................................. “Lift Every Voice and Sing"

Invocation................................................................................................... Elaine Irons-Hunt

Acknowledgement of Sick and Shut In & In Memoriam.......................... Xavier Orr

Special Presentation............................................................................. Dr. Keondra Rustan

Lunch is Served

Spoken Word/Poem....................................................... Monique Franklin,Verbal Oasis

Introduction of Keynote....................................................................Dr. Joycelyn Thomas

Keynote Speaker..................................................................Wendy Barrington PhD, MPH

University of Washington School of Public Health

Anne Foy Baker Award.........................................................................Dr. Antwinett O. Lee

Student Speaker................................................................................................... Lekasia Riley

Scholarship Recipients Presentation............................................... Dr. Gayle Robinson

Student Speaker................................................................ Heremela Yemane Gebrehiwot

ASK.................................................................................................................................Xavier Orr

Closing Prayer of Protection...................................................................Elaine Irons-Hunt

Tiloben Publishing Company, Inc. is the largest African American owned and operated communications company in the Pacic Northwest. We target the African American and other communities of color with four newspapers: The Seattle Medium (Seattle, WA), The Seattle Metro Homemaker (Seattle, WA), The Tacoma True Citizen (Tacoma, WA) and The Portland Medium (Portland, OR).

We are one of the Northwest’s most quoted weeklies and a major force in community service, news, and editorial commentary; an inuential leader in the community.

We produce and distribute the publications of choice that residents of the Seattle, Tacoma, and Portland areas read to stay informed regarding issues and events that aect and enhance the quality of life in the African American and minority communities. Tiloben Publishing, Inc., publishers of the Seattle Medium, Metro Homemaker, Tacoma True Citizen and Portland Medium, owns its printing plant and is in its 53rd year of service to the African American and minority communities of Washington and Oregon. Proud Supporters of

2024 Ann Foye Baker Award Recipient

Chris B . Bennett

Chris B.

Bennett

Publisher/CEO of The Seattle Medium

Anne Foy Baker, one of the original twelve founders of Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses Organization believed that Nursing was a “calling to serve” similar to the call to become a minister. She believed we have an obligation to provide service to our community and those who are committed to our care, a belief she demonstrated throughout her life work.

Each year, we celebrate her life and legacy by bestowing the Anne Foy BakerAward to an outstanding community member who reflects our value of community service.

Chris B. Bennett, Publisher/CEO of The Seattle Medium newspaper, a second generation publisher of Seattle’s leading Black news source who exemplifies what it means to embrace the value of being a legacy newspaper, is this year’s Anne Foy Baker Award recipient. He continues to be at the forefront for new concepts, experiment in new and creative ways, and deliver impactful results for their companies. His willingness to share his success with others, provide important feedback to improve processes and products for advertisers, as he continues building in new categories, delivering fantastic results with branded content and email marketing, and experimenting in new and creative ways.

Bennett has been a leader and industry example of how to best use lifestyle content and category-specific content to bring in new advertisers and new audiences to The Seattle Medium. The Seattle Medium has always been a great supporter to MMPNO and it is our pleasure to bestow upon him the Anne Foy Baker Award.

Anne Foy Baker

MMPNO for 75 years of legacy and service!

Keynote Speaker

Wendy Barrington, PhD, MPH

Wendy Barrington, PhD, MPH is an Associate Professor with joint appointments in the Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing in the School of Nursing and the Departments of Epidemiology and Health Systems and Population Health in the School of Public Health at the University of Washington. She is an instructor of public health and healthcare practitioners focused on understanding and addressing the social determinants of health in practice and serves as the inaugural director of the Center for AntiRacism and Community Health (ARCH).

As a health disparities researcher and social epidemiologist, Dr. Barrington’s own program of research falls within two main schema: promoting healthy communities and addressing

racial disparities in clinical outcomes. She applies anti-racism and community-based participatory research (CBPR) principles to foster authentic community partnerships, collaborate with community health workers and promotoras, and transform health systems via optimizing policy, practices, and processes to disrupt mechanisms of structural racism and discrimination that limit the accessibility and quality of public health and healthcare services.

Dr. Barrington is a national public health leader through her work as part of the steering committee for the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) Framing The Future Initiative and member of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Community Preventive Services Task Force (CPSTF) for which she chairs the Health Equity Committee. She is active in cross-institutional collaborations as part of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), the Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network (CPCRN), and as board member of the Intercultural Cancer Council.

"Of all of the inequalities, the inequality of health care is the most shocking.”

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Tudor Foundation is proud to support MMPNO enrich lives through scholarships and mentoring for the next generation. Happy 75th Anniversary!

salutes MMPNO for years of Service and Education in the community.

Shanda Boyd

Photo © Rmarmion | Dreamstime.com

We have a big tent that welcomes all nurses

When we grow our membership and diversify it, we strengthen the voice we bring to all discussions.

Congratulations MMPNO on 75 years of service and education. Keep up the great work!

2024 MMPNO Scholarship Recipients

Ahmed Jama is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in June 2025. He chose nursing as a career observing his mother work as a nursing assistant. He enjoys direct patient care because it involves communication that enables authentic relationships of trust which benefits health. He states that during his first quarter, he has learned that patient advocacy is also important and it is important to not only advocate for your needs but also your patients. Ahmed’s future goal is to inspire African males and youth to become nurses and educate the community about health and wellness.

Brittany Wambui Tellis is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in June 2025. Brittany’s personal experiences with the dismissal of health care for serious health issues has influenced her passion to deliver health care for African Americans. She realizes now her families health issues were also being dismissed. She states that throughout her life, her mother was a large influence on why she desires to become a nurse. Her mother came from Kenya with three children. She observed her mother’s courage and never giving up her efforts in securing an ADN to her finally securing a Doctorate degree.

Chukwudi Okeke is enrolled at the University of Washington, Bothell campus and will graduate in August 2024. He is described as eager to gain experience and learn new skills. He shares that one of his passions lies in serving members of the unsheltered community, who struggle with substance use disorders. He has volunteered and partnered with police officers that provide shelter and handouts to individuals, who are a part of the unsheltered community Chukwudi also shared he was driven to become a nurse because he wanted a career that would help him live his life purpose and fulfill his desire to continue meeting the needs of the most vulnerable.

2024 MMPNO Scholarship Recipients (continued)

Heremela Y. Gebrehiwot is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in August 2025. Heremela is described as having an intelligent curiosity. She aims for excellence, is recognized for her academic and community service, and selected to participate in the Alfie Scholars Program. As a leader, Heremela is committed to addressing healthcare disparities and advocating for others. She believes nurses are the heart of the medical field. As with her mother, volunteerism is essential. Her goal is to research chronic conditions and medications.

Lekashia Riley is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in June 2025. Lekashia is described as having an amazing story of struggle and determination to overcome many health challenges. Her nursing education is precious to her and is not taken for granted. She shares her desire to become a nurse stems from her personal journey as a patient since she was 13 months old and her care has ranged from mediocre to exceptional. Her goal is provide outstanding care to patients, be their advocate and guide them through the complexities of the health care system.

Lochelle Cox is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in June 2025. Lochelle has been observed as providing outstanding care with empathy, dignity, and respect to patients, often underserved, with complex medical and mental health needs. She shares experiences with peers, demonstrating leadership, increasing understanding, and creating a rich learning environment. Lochelle is committed to advocacy by addressing healthcare disparities and working towards health equity Her goal is to improve the overall wellbeing of individuals and communities.

2024 MMPNO Scholarship Recipients (continued)

Maryan S. Ali is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in August 2025. She is described as consistent, reliable, conscientious, and dedicated. She has served as a leader with peers in small groups. Her desire to become a nurse is attributed to her feelings about the loss of her grandmother Despite significant family setbacks, Maryan's resilience and dedication in her journey to become a nurse are evident. She has a strong desire to help others. Maryan’s patience, caring, kindness, and professionalism are essential qualities of a good nurse.

Michael Yosief Ghebremariam is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in August 2025. He is described as observant and brings forth meaningful questions, especially around practical applications of lessons learned. His interest in nursing was influenced by his grandmother, who was his role model, at an early age. He observed her treating people in the community. Michael gained insight into the struggles of people of various cultures in countries during his journey to the United States, which assisted him in his decision to become a nurse.

Nasro Ahmed is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in August 2025. Nasro is described as kind, compassionate, determined, and positive. As a hardworking student, Nasro began taking college classes during her senior year. She graduated with her HS Diploma and her AA degree. She was inspired to become a nurse after losing her baby brother to a serious health condition. Nasro’s personal goal is to advocate for those who are underrepresented in the community, by helping them navigate the healthcare system for better health outcomes.

2024 MMPNO Scholarship Recipients (continued)

Sara Mulugeta Nemera is enrolled at Seattle Pacific University and will graduate in June 2025. Her interest in nursing stems from shadowing nurses in the hospital. She was motivated by the impact nurses had on patients’ daily and long term. As a certified nursing assistant, her core values are listening to the patient and showing compassion during the worse times in their lives. She is dedicated to addressing health disparities to reduce in maternal and infant mortality in her nursing career. Her future goal is to become a Nurse Anesthetist to treat marginalized patients.

Stephen Nderitu Mwangi is enrolled at the University of Washington and will graduate in June 2025. He made a decision to become a nurse as a results of deep understanding for the human condition and the art of compassionate care. He states I want to merge the science of health care with the art of compassionate care. He has worked with the homeless, in hospitals and family homes with emphasis on understanding cultural differences. His long term goal is to become involved in leadership roles to establish healthcare policies that involve equal access to quality care for all.

Sonia Edwige Tchamba Leckeu is enrolled at Seattle University and will graduate in June 2025. Sonia has been described as an excellent student with academic dedication as well as being a valuable team and community leader. Sonia shares that since childhood, she always knew she wanted to be a healthcare professional. She was very sick as a child and spent a lot of time in hospitals. She also has the experience of caring for her mother, who suffered serious burns. These experiences have influenced her desire to become a nurse. Her goals for the future are to expand her role via nursing education.

Providence/Swedish Hospital

Congratulations MMPNO!

ENDOWED DONORS

Dr. Kathryn E. Barnard, PhD, RN, FAA (Emeritus, Deceased)

Mrs. Mary Lee Bell, MPA, BSN, RN & Mr. Henry P. Bell (Deceased)

Ms. Helen Shirley Ann Fuller Murphy (Deceased) sponsored by Valorie Taylor, MN, BSN

Mrs. Shirley M. Gilford, BSN, RN & P. Lloyd Gilford, BA, MA (Deceased)

Cammie Lynn Hall (Deceased) sponsored by Frances Marcus Lewis, PhD, MN, MA, RN, FAAAN

Ms. Verna Ward Hill, MSN, BSN, RN

Dr. Gail Chapman Hongladarom, PhD, MN (Deceased) & Dr. Ty Hongladarom, MD (Deceased)

Ms. Frankie T. Manning, RN, BSN, MAN sponsored by Dr. Elaine Walsh

Mr. Paul A. Merriman

Dr. Robert Monahan, PhD (Deceased) & Mrs. Marilyn Monahan

Mrs. Vivian O. Lee

Mrs. Mary Osborne, MN, BSN, RN (Deceased)

Mrs. Rachel S. Pitts, BSN, RN (Deceased) Sponsored by Dr. Marla Salmon

Mr. Roger & Mrs. Annette Rieger Owners, Tudor Foundation

Dr. Lois Price Spratlen, PhD, RN, FAAN (Emeritus, Deceased) & Dr. Thaddeus Spratlen, PhD. (Emeritus, Deceased)

Dr. Arthur R. Thompson, MD, PhD & Dr. Elaine A. Thompson, PhD, RN

Mrs. Elizabeth Thomas, MN, ARNP, RN (Deceased), sponsored by Dr. Richard Dion, MD & Mrs. Margaret (Peggy) Dion

Mr. Lawson L. Turner & Mrs. Mary E. Noble Turner (Both Deceased) Sponsored by Mrs. Frankie T. Manning, MN. RN

Membership is open to any registered nurse of African Heritage who is committed to the mission and goals of this organization. Monthly meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month, September through June.

www.marymahoney.org

2024 MMPNO Oicers

Keondra Rustan President MMPNO

Xavier Orr Vice-President MMPNO

Elaine Irons-Hunt Secretary MMPNO

Keandra Thompson Treasurer, MMPNO

Jacinta Mwilu Parliamentarian, MMPNO

www.marymahoney.org

Being a nurse is the most fulfilling careers you can choose!

Proud member and supporter of MMPNO!

The University of Washington ManningSpratlen Center of AntiRacism & Equity in Nursing (MS-CARE in Nursing)

“There is much work to do to become antiracist, not just as a society, but as a school, a university, a profession and a community. As the cornerstone for healthcare and advocates for the communities they serve, nurses are in the ideal position to do this work. The need to end racism is long overdue and nurses must do their part.”

–Executive Dean Azita Emami

Valorie M. Taylor, MN, BSN

Frankie Manning Lois Price-Spratlen (deceased)

Elisabeth

Photo credit © Hongqi Zhang (aka Michael Zhang) | Dreamstime.com

Mary Mahoney Professional Nurses Organization

Vanetta Molson-Turner MMPNO Member

“As a nurse, we have the opportunity to heal the heart, mind, soul and body of our patients, their families and ourselves. They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

– Maya Angelou

We are committed to improving health and health equity in the United States. In partnership with others, we are working to develop a culture of health equity.

Dr. Marla Salmon

proud supporter of Mary Mahoney Professional Nursing Organization

Sending very best wishes and thanks to all who make the MMPNO a community treasure. Your work has been a gift of nursing to those we serve. You have touched many lives, including mine. CONGRATULATIONS!

With much appreciation and affection.

75TH

ANNUAL MMPNO SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATION

2024 Sponsors

Dr. Marla Salmon

THE TUDOR FOUNDATION

Participating Partners and Community Based Organizations

Anthony Lee

AWH Productions

Ben Hassan Temple 64

Elaine Detwiler

Ely Living Trust, Elizabeth Ely

Harris and Smith Public Affairs

Lilly For Better Lives

Lois Price Spratlen Foundation

MultiCare

Nate Miles

Michelle M & Merri A. Osbourne

Puget Sound Advocates for Retirement Action

Seattle Children’s Hospital & Regional Medical Center

Seattle University College of Nursing

Shirley Gilford, The Gilford Group Travel Group

University of Washington, School of Nursing, Seattle, Washington

Washington Center for Nursing

Shanda Boyd

Special Thanks & Acknowledgements

Dr. Joycelyn Thomas, Event Chair

Xavier Orr – Master of Ceremonies

Elaine Irons-Hunt – Speaker

Dr. Wendy Barrington – Keynote Speaker

Ms. Heremela Yemane-Gebrehiwot – Student Speaker

Ms. Lekasia Riley – Student Speaker

Ms. Monique Franklin – Verbal Oasis

Ms. Frankie Manning – Registration

Ms. Theresa Crimi – Registration

Dr. Keandra Thompson Finances

Ms. Charlotte Ruff – Editing Material

Alive and Black Marketing

Dr. Antwinett O. Lee – Ways and Means Co-Chair

Ms. Rosa Young - Ways and Means Co-Chair

Ms. Twanda Hill – Program Design

Mr. Anthony Hopkins – Photos

Ms. Mia Yoshihara-Bradshaw – Photos and Design

Mr. Danny Welsh – Saxophonist

Kusak Cut Glass

Sick & Shut In

Frances Terry

Verna Hill

In Memoriam

Beulah Mae “Bea” Smith

November 23, 1935 – November 24, 2023

Beulah Mae “Bea” Smith

Rest in Paradise

www.salalcu.org

Salal Credit Union, a grass-roots nancial co-operative empowering, and empowered by you.

Proud to support MMPNO Scholarship Celebration. Empowering Nurses for 75 years!