Membership Spotlight: National Black Nurses Association

By Theo Smith, Associate, Marketing & Communications  

 Nurses are on the frontlines of our health care system. They play an essential role in the health care system because they have one-on-one discussions with patients during visits, coordinate campaigns on specific health issues or community-based events, and promote wellness strategies before patients even need a hospital visit. Additionally, nurses administer and evaluate treatment and can be the greatest advocates for patients. 

 Especially now, during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to recognize the important role nurses play in our health care system and caring for patients.  

The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) is committed to serve as the national nursing body to influence legislation and policies that affect Black nurses and people and work cooperatively and collaboratively with other health workers, institutions, and organizations. 

The NBNA serves as the professional voice for over 308,000 African American registered nurses, licensed vocational/practical nurses, nursing students, and retired nurses from the USA, Eastern Caribbean, and Africa. In 1971, the NBNA was founded under the leadership of Dr. Lauranne Sams, former Dean and Professor of Nursing, School of Nursing, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL, who served as its first President. After feeling that their unique needs, as well as the serious health care needs of black people, were not being adequately addressed , Black nurses who were members of the ANA convened in Miami, FL to discuss these issues and identify other common interests and concerns. This marked a significant milestone in the history of Black nurses in the United States.  

Almost 50 years later through its 118 chapters in 36 states, the NBNA provides countless hours of community-based health care services, publishes a peer reviewed research journal to increase the body of knowledge about health care and health needs and the practice of nursing, and compiles and maintains a national Directory of Black Nurses to assist with the dissemination of information regarding Black nurses.   

The NBNA values excellence in education and conducts continuing education programs for nurses throughout the year. The association provides annual scholarships for students. This organization is committed to serve as the voice for Black nurses and diverse populations ensuring equal access to professional development, promoting educational opportunities, and improving health.  

The National Black Nurses Association is proud of its affiliation with the National Health Council and values its contributions to ensure all Americans have access to quality, affordable, and effective health care. 

To learn more about the National Black Nurses Association, go to their website. 

If you would like more information on NHC membership, please contact Bob Scott.