2024 BSA Awards Booklet

BLACK STUDENT ASSOCIATION

AWARDS CEREMONY

AWARDS CEREMONY

Black Student Association Executive Board | 2023 – 2024 Officers

President

Mecca Gordon, College of Pharmacy

Vice President

Khadijat Perkins, College of Medicine

Treasurer

Elizabeth Imafidon, College of Dentistry

Social Chair

Aariana Sanders, College of Dentistry

Secretary

Qiera Bentley, College of Health Professions

Service Chair

Kelsey Long, College of Pharmacy

College Representatives

Dentistry: Justin Biam

Nursing: Alexis Macklin

Health Professions: Victoria Martin

Pharmacy: Kolayah Shelton

Medicine: Marquinta King

Advisor

Dr. Dustin Fulton

Assistant Dean, College of Medicine

The Black Student Association (BSA)

is an interdisciplinary organization founded in 1992 by African American students at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and is open to all students regardless of ethnic background, discipline, or other affiliations. The purpose of the organization is to contribute to the success of its members through education, training, and community engagement. The BSA serves as a bridge for all members across all six colleges at UT Health Science Center.

Welcome

Keynote Address

BSA AWARDS PROGRAM

Khadijat Perkins BSA Vice President, College of Medicine

LaTonya Washington, MD Chief Medical Officer Methodist North Hospital

PRESENTATION OF AWARDS

College of Dentistry

College of Graduate Health Sciences

College of Health Professions

College of Medicine

College of Nursing

College of Pharmacy

Special Remarks Joe Greer, DDS

Closing Dr. Dustin Fulton BSA Advisor

Assistant Dean, College of Medicine

Mecca Gordon BSA President, College of Medicine

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

LaTonya Washington, MD

LaTonya Washington, MD, MBA, CPE, FAAP, FACP, FHM, FACHE is a native Mississippian. She received a Bachelor of Science in biology from Tougaloo College and a Doctorate of Medicine from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Her residency training in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics was completed at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences where she also served as chief resident in her final year. Dr. Washington is board certified in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. She later obtained a Master of Business Administration from Auburn University.

Dr. Washington has practiced both adult and pediatric medicine in the outpatient and inpatient settings in Virginia, Arkansas, and Tennessee. She formerly served as Chief Medical Officer at Regional One Health Extended Care Hospital, Pediatric Hospitalist at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and Associate Director of Hospital Medicine and Physician Advisor at St. Francis Hospital in Memphis, TN. She currently serves as Chief Medical Officer at Methodist North Hospital in Memphis and supervising physician at Graham Primary Healthcare. She is the immediate past president of the Bluff City Medical Society, the premier medical organization for physicians of color in Memphis. She has served as a charter member of the LeBonheur Children’s Hospital Associate Board of Directors, Board of Directors of For the Kingdom Camp Memphis, and Board of Directors for the Memphis Medical Society. Dr. Washington is committed to advancing the healthcare of her community through education, advocacy, and action.

HONOREE

Ranesha Orlanda Pringle

College of Dentistry

As a student in the dental hygiene program in the College of Dentistry, Ranesha Orlanda Pringle has demonstrated outstanding professional and community service. She is a native of Memphis, Tennessee, and decided early that she wanted to pursue a career in dental hygiene. Prior to becoming a student at UT Health Science Center, she completed her prerequisite coursework at Southwest Tennessee Community College and will graduate in May with a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene.

During her time as a student in the Dental Hygiene program, Ranesha has exhibited effective leadership in service. She has volunteered with dental service events such as Give Kids a Smile, the Mid-South Mission of Mercy, and countless health fairs. Ranesha has a passion for mentoring those who are beginning their journey in healthcare and currently serves as a mentor to underclass students who are navigating the rigorous demands of professional education. Additionally, she serves a mentor for local middle and high school students who are exploring various careers in healthcare through the UT Health Science Center’s “Our Future Is Now” program.

While working part-time to support herself, Ranesha has maintained an exceptional grade point average throughout her tenure as a student at UT Health Science Center and was awarded the Chancellor’s Diversity Scholarship in 2022-2023, and 2023-2024.

After graduation, Ranesha plans to pursue a master’s degree in public health. She would like to create solutions for some of the social determinants of health, especially those impacting children and veterans.

HONOREE

Nia Marshall College of Dentistry

An alumna of Cornell University, Nia Marshall earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Society. At Cornell, she held leadership roles in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and served as captain of the Varsity Women’s Basketball team, earning the title of all-time leading scorer. Nia will graduate in May with the Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the UT Health Science Center College of Dentistry. Nia’s unwavering passion for healthcare is reflected in her academic achievements and research contributions. Prior to becoming a student at UT Health Science Center, Nia completed a Master of Health Administration degree at the Ohio State University in May 2020. While completing her master’s degree, she distinguished herself as a National Association of Health Services Executives Student Case Competition semifinalist, showcasing strategic thinking and leadership abilities.

At UT Health Science Center, Nia served as a research fellow from December 2020 to October 2021. Focused on advancing oral healthcare, she assessed the knowledge, awareness, and attitude of teledentistry among UT Health Science Center dental students and dentists. Identifying barriers, Nia proposed improvements to enhance access to oral healthcare services in rural and urban communities.

Nia’s commitment to healthcare extends beyond the classroom to mentorship and community engagement, evident by her role as a mentor for Diversity in Dentistry in Memphis, guiding underrepresented high school students through resume workshops and leadership exercises. She has also mentored local middle and high school students in the “Our Future is Now” program, emphasizing healthcare career opportunities and important life values.

HONOREE

Samantha Calhoun

College of Graduate Health Sciences

A native Memphian and first-generation college graduate, Samantha Faith Calhoun is a registered nurse and clinical assistant professor in the College of Nursing at the University of Memphis. Samantha will graduate from the UT Health Science Center College of Graduate Health Sciences in May, earning the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science degree. Samantha exemplifies the spirit of breaking barriers and paving the way for others. Her life’s mission is to live authentically and to take up space as a quiet giant with the fearlessness to be true to her core values and her calling to care for others.

In addition to her academic and professional achievements, Samantha’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond the classroom. Her dissertation research was inspired by the struggles of Black men in her family and her patients with hypertension. Her study examined Black men’s shared decisionmaking preferences in the U.S. Mid-South region. Furthermore, Samantha and her husband passionately serve the Mid-South through their non-profits, STS Enterprise, and Simply Faith, a women’s faith coaching ministry.

As Samantha continues her journey, she hopes to inspire those around her and be a vessel for positive change, whether as a nurse scientist, leader, educator or simply as a compassionate human being. Samantha’s self-published book, titled “Simply Faith, A Brown Girl’s Book of Encouragement for Nursing School: I Already Quit So You Don’t Have To,” is set to be released in 2025. Samantha hopes to inspire others to live authentically, believe in themselves, and use their gifts to make a difference. She is proud to share this award with her peers and hopes to connect with each recipient to continue the work.

HONOREE

Joshua Miller College of Health Professions

Joshua Miller is a graduating student in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program in the UT Health Science Center College of Health Professions. Joshua’s dedication and zeal for the field of physical therapy have not only enriched his academic pursuits but have also significantly contributed to the department’s ethos of community service and professional development. Throughout his tenure in the program, he has exemplified the qualities of a true leader and a dedicated learner. His efforts in tutoring Orthopedics I and II have not only demonstrated his mastery of the subject but also his willingness to uplift his peers academically. This spirit of collaboration and support is a cornerstone of the department’s philosophy.

Joshua’s involvement in student-centric activities, such as conducting interviews and leading tours, has greatly enhanced prospective students’ experience, and understanding of the physical therapy program. His role in these activities underscores his commitment to the growth and reputation of the department. Joshua’s dedication extends beyond the confines of the academic setting. His active participation in Clinica Esperanza highlights his commitment to serving the community and addressing healthcare disparities. His volunteer work with the YMCA and Memphis Rox further illustrates his dedication to community service.

In pursuit of academic and professional excellence, Joshua has shown remarkable initiative and ambition. His interest in research and residency programs reflects his desire for continuous learning and specialization in the field. His successful application to a highly competitive and prestigious Clinical Education Experience is a testament to his exceptional capabilities and the high regard in which he is held by the professional community. Joshua’s academic prowess is further evidenced by his achievement in passing the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist examination, a notable accomplishment during his time as a student. This

achievement, coupled with his distinction as the top performer in Kinesiology, showcases his exceptional academic abilities and his deep understanding of the field. Joshua’s journey through the Department of Physical Therapy is a narrative of relentless pursuit of excellence, community service, and professional development. His achievements and contributions not only make him a standout individual but also reflect the Department of Physical Therapy’s commitment to fostering outstanding professionals in the field.

HONOREE

Woodi Woodland College of Medicine

Woodi Woodland has truly distinguished herself as a student leader. As a fourth-year student in the UT Health Science Center College of Medicine, she will graduate with the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in May 2024. She is a summa cum laude graduate of UT Knoxville where she majored in chemical engineering. As a member of Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Medical Society at UT Health Science Center, she has distinguished herself in academic excellence, leadership, and service.

As a representative of the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) Action Plan Board, Woodi played an important role in the College of Medicine’s recent accreditation cycle. She has served as the director of communications for the Global Surgery Institute, secretary of the Student Orthopedic Association, and service and outreach chair of the Otolaryngology Student Interest Group. Her appointment to serve as the 2023-2024 student trustee on the University of Tennessee Board of Trustees is a testament to her leadership as she represents students across the state with her voice, and with her vote as a member of the Education, Research, and Service Committee.

Woodi’s passion for mentoring developed from not having much guidance in her personal journey to medicine. As an ambassador, peer mentor, and MPOWER mentor, she has been able to provide support and direction for medical students at critical times. Her service extends to the community through participation in mentoring programs at the Boys and Girls Club, and volunteering with Memphis Street Health’s Room in the Inn for families seeking shelter. She has also been involved with Student National Medical Association (SNMA) service projects and Clinica Esperanza – the student-led primary care clinic for the underserved, uninsured adult LatinX population of Memphis.

After graduation, Woodi will begin the next phase of the journey to becoming an otolaryngologist. She hopes to use her passion for treating the underserved to create ancillary clinic sites in under-resourced areas and bring resources to better treat patients. She desires to pursue her academic interests by teaching and serving on boards and committees that promote excellence in education. She plans to continue providing mentorship and guidance for students pursuing professional degrees and careers, inspiring others from minoritized communities.

HONOREE

Jasmine Walker College of Nursing

Jasmine Walker is set to graduate from the College of Nursing in May 2024, earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Nurse Midwifery. During her time in the DNP program, Jasmine has maintained membership in the Black Student Association (BSA) and has guided other students to join and work in the community. Throughout the doctoral program, she has demonstrated a passion for changing policies that affect the inequities in healthcare, especially in maternal mortality of Black mothers. She has done health policy work on maternal morbidity and has applied to attend a national policy conference that will improve her ability to get the message to lawmakers.

Jasmine’s passion for equity and excellence in the care for Black mothers is impressive. She has learned how to advocate for her patients and her profession and uses her voice to bring much needed change to the care of Black women and mothers.

HONOREE

Mecca Gordon College of Pharmacy

Mecca Gordon is a fourth-year Doctor of Pharmacy student who demonstrates leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to patient care. In May 2024, she will graduate with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the College of Pharmacy. Mecca completed her pharmacy prerequisites and studied Human Nutrition at the University of Kentucky. In 2022, she completed an internship at Gilead Sciences as a Global Patient Safety Intern.

During her time at UT Health Science Center, Mecca has been an effective leader as demonstrated by her role as the current Black Student Association (BSA) president. She previously served as the BSA vice president. In her leadership roles, Mecca has helped many student pharmacists while modeling professionalism.

Mecca was awarded the University Scholars Diversity Scholarship in 2020-2021, 2021-2022, 2022-2023, and 20232024, as well as the 2021-2022 Bobby Thomas Inclusivity Endowment Scholarship.

With a passion for helping others, Mecca works as an intern at Kroger and St. Francis–Bartlett. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a nontraditional pharmacy position. Her current interests include social determinants of health, health education, pharmaceuticals/biopharmaceuticals, and independent community pharmacy.

Congratulations to the 2024 BSA Award Honorees

Ranesha Orlanda Pringle College of Dentistry

Joshua Miller College of Health Professions

Nia Marshall College of Dentistry

Samantha Calhoun College of Graduate Health Sciences

Woodi Woodland College of Medicine

Jasmine Walker College of Nursing

Mecca Gordon College of Pharmacy

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

*As of February 16, 2024

The 32nd Annual Black Student Association Awards Ceremony

February 23, 2024

Special thanks to the following:

Dr. Dustin Fulton (BSA Advisor)

College of Dentistry

College of Graduate Health Sciences

College of Health Professions

College of Medicine

College of Nursing

College of Pharmacy

Office of the Chancellor

UTHSC Office of Communications and Marketing

Bluff City Medical Society

College of Medicine Office of Admissions