OU nursing dean honored by National Black Nurses Association

Pictured from left: Kenya Beard, Ed.D., president of the National Black Nurses Association's Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing; Christopher Coleman, dean of Oakland University's School of Nursing; and Sheldon Fields, president and CEO of the National Black Nurses Association, at the 52nd Annual Institute and Conference of the National Black Nurses Association.

Christopher Lance Coleman, Ph.D., dean of Oakland University's School of Nursing, was recently honored with the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Trailblazer Award at the 52^nd Annual NBNA Institute and Conference, in San Francisco.

The NBNA Trailblazer Award recognizes an individual whose character places them in a position of leadership and who leads their community, state and the nation in nursing, business, philanthropy, communications, government, education or the arts.

"Your exemplary contributions in nursing have had a profound impact," Sheldon D. Fields, Ph.D., president and CEO of the National Black Nurses Association, wrote in a letter to Coleman. "In recognition of your leadership, dedication and contributions to the care of patients, especially your long-term work in HIV/AIDS prevention and nursing administration, I am honored to present you with a 2024 NBNA Trailblazer Award."

Additionally, at the conference, Coleman was inducted as a Luminary Fellow to the inaugural class of the newly established Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing (ADLN). The inaugural Luminary ADLN Fellows have demonstrated expertise in one or more areas of nursing education, research, practice, policy, or administration as it relates to issues of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI).

The group of inaugural Luminary ADLN Fellows consists of highly distinguished individuals who are renowned for their JEDI contributions. Each has at least 30 years of experience in nursing and continues to open doors for greater JEDI in nursing while they continue their innovative, groundbreaking work.

Coleman said, "I am honored to receive this remarkable recognition from the National Black Nurses Association and to join the ranks of other outstanding nurse leaders who have left an indelible legacy on this nation."

To learn more about the National Black Nurses Association visit nbna.org.

For more information about OU's School of Nursing, visit oakland.edu/nursing.

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