Dean Washington recognized by nursing association

Dean Earlie Washington

Dean Earlie Washington was honored at a recent gala held by the Kent County, Kalamazoo-Muskegon Michigan National Black Nurses Association, a professional membership nursing organization which works to reduce health disparities among African Americans and other minority communities in the West Michigan.

At the fourteenth annual scholarship awards and gala on May 18, Dr. Washington received the “Volunteer Community Service Award” for her work in the community and dedication to educating the next generation of health care professionals.

Upon receiving the award, Dean Washington expressed gratitude to KMMBNA for the recognition, and went on to applaud the organization’s work in the community.

“Thank you for encouraging and supporting young black women and men to pursue careers in health care. Increasing health care workforce diversity is something that is near and dear to my heart, and I greatly appreciate all the vital work KMMBNA is doing,” Dr. Washington said.

Angela Hanks, vice president of Chemical Bank in Walker, also received the volunteer award. The gala and dinner included a silent auction, which helped to raise funds for scholarships for students entering the nursing field. Last year, two Bronson School of Nursing students at WMU received scholarships following the gala.

In her acceptance speech, Dean Washington recognized students, colleagues and her leadership team for their dedication to community service. “For those on the front lines of health care, as well as those who teach it, service is ingrained in the fabric of our lives. Community service brings out the best in us all, and makes our communities better places for all to live.”

To date, the KMMBNA has awarded more than $55,000 in nursing tuition scholarships. Out of those recipients, more than 50 have graduated nursing school and are working RNs or LPNs.