Meet Kendra: Family Nurse Practitioner-C & Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC

Name: Kendra

Occupation: Family Nurse Practitioner-C and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC Location: Public Health Infectious Disease Clinic

Background

Kendra earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in special education and spent several years working with the children with disabilities. While she loved working with special education students, she recognized the financial limitations of the field and began exploring other opportunities. Encouraged by her mother, a nurse, Kendra transitioned into nursing—a decision that led her on an unexpected yet deeply fulfilling journey.

Her HBCU

Kendra earned her bachelor's degree from North Carolina A&T State University, and according to her, the experience was nothing short of amazing. When she speaks about her alma mater, the pure joy, love, and pride are palpable:

"I loved it! Aggie Pride is everywhere. The professors were like family. When you go back for homecoming, you see your professors, and they remember you."

She went on to earn her BSN and Nurse Practitioner degrees from Winston-Salem State University another HBCU, where she found inspiration in seeing successful medical professionals who looked like her. Their presence and achievements motivated her to push further and strive for success in her own career.

Her Path to Nursing

Kendra began her nursing journey by earning her ADN degree at a community college. She then advanced her education through an RN-to-BSN bridge program, completing her BSN while working as a nurse at a inpatient mental health hospital. Through this program, she took courses from Winston-Salem State University at a well-known, large local hospital.

(An RN-to-BSN bridge program is an accelerated and flexible pathway that allows registered nurses with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Many programs partner with hospitals, enabling nurses to continue working while furthering their education.)

Her Journey into Travel Nursing

After working in med-surg nursing for one year, Kendra decided to explore travel nursing—and she loved it. The experience allowed her to gain exposure to different healthcare systems, immerse herself in diverse cultures, and continue growing professionally.

Becoming a Nurse Practitioner

Never one to sit still, Kendra began asking herself, What’s next? after her time as a travel nurse. Determined to keep advancing, she took another leap and pursued her Nurse Practitioner degree at Winston-Salem State University.  Additionally, in 2024, Kendra completed a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program and is now a certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

What She Loves About Her Job

“I love the diversity of my patients. I see people from all walks of life—some need translators, some are homeless, and some have insurance but prefer our clinic for various reasons. It keeps the work interesting and meaningful,” Kendra shares.

Biggest Challenges

One of the toughest aspects of her job is turning away patients when the clinic reaches capacity. Additionally, delivering unexpected HIV diagnoses can be emotionally challenging, but she works alongside disease intervention specialists to provide support and guidance.

Advice to Other Black Women Considering Nursing

• Just do it! Nursing provides financial stability and endless career opportunities.

• Start with a two-year program if cost is a concern, and bridge to a bachelor’s later.

• If you’re only in it for the money, think twice. Nursing school and clinicals will test your passion. However, there are non-patient-care roles in research, telehealth, and administration for those seeking alternative paths.

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Future Goals

Kendra envisions working for herself—potentially in remote telehealth, contract work, or private practice.

Fun Fact:

Kendra is currently building a home in Nigeria with her aunt, a project she hopes will serve as a future family retreat.  You can follow her journey at:  https://www.youtube.com/@DeltaStateLiving