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Fort Valley State University Celebrates its Inaugural Cohort of Nurses

The inaugural class includes six women who bring diverse backgrounds and inspiring personal journeys to nursing. Nadia Ford is from Fort Valley, Georgia. She is a double Wildcat, having previously earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a concentration in animal science from Fort Valley State University in 2023. Jaelyn Franklin is from Atlanta, Georgia. She also holds a previous degree from FVSU in biology. Sheena Fleurinord is a mother of two from Miami, Florida. She earned an associate degree in health sciences before entering the BSN program. Pheona Mack is a mother of three from Warner Robins, Georgia. She holds an associate degree in health sciences and worked in healthcare throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Mack expressed her feelings about this remarkable achievement. "I didn't realize how large an impact we are making. This is very monumental. I'm nurturing, and I find joy in helping others. Nursing is a passion, and I feel I was born to heal and care for others."

Tasnim Mohammad is a mother of two and is originally from Jordan. She is a double Wildcat with a degree in biotechnology and a minor in horticulture. Mohammad also works as a research assistant at FVSU. Chasity Polk is from Stone Mountain, Georgia, and is the mother of one child. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a concentration in plant science and a minor in horticulture from FVSU. Polk reflected on her journey, stating, "I think nursing chose me. I've heard my entire life that I 'should be a nurse,' but I was stubborn not to recognize it as my calling. I chose to pursue it because it perfectly combines my passion for science with my deep desire to serve and advocate for others. I've always been drawn to helping people in meaningful, hands-on ways, and nursing allows me to do that daily. After a career pivot from agricultural research, I wanted to work in a field where I could see the direct impact of my work on individuals and families. Nursing offers not just a career, but a calling—to care, lead, and make a difference, even in the most difficult moments of someone's life."

FVSU nursing faculty did not give the opportunity a second thought when asked to apply for positions in the new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. One faculty member shared the remarkable opportunity. "It is rare to witness the beginning of a legacy, but rarer to be a part of it. The opportunity to stand at the inception and graduate as the first cohort of nurses at this historic HBCU, is not just a milestone. However, we are here to plant seeds into this fertile ground that will bloom for future generations."

Nursing faculty members didn't just teach nursing to the students; they lived the journey alongside them. Some drove for hours across counties, from city hospitals to rural nursing homes and daycare centers, including FVSU's Child Development Center. They made sure every student had an opportunity to stand at the bedside, a chance to learn, and, most importantly, a chance to care.

Each of the six graduates will earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and join the ranks of healthcare professionals ready to serve diverse communities across Georgia and beyond. Their stories are not just individual victories, they are collective proof that access, representation and resilience matter in building the future of healthcare.

Greene added a heartfelt message to the graduating students. "I am incredibly proud of your accomplishments and inspired by your dedication. You are not only making history; you are building a legacy. I am excited to see your lasting impact on the nursing profession and the countless lives you will touch through compassionate care."

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