Dr. Bernadine Lacey
Dr. Bernadine Lacey was a nurse, educator, advocate, and healthcare leader. Dr. Lacey experienced numerous life-altering encounters with racism during her education and career. This influenced her advocacy work and professional endeavors. She was one of the first Black nurses admitted to Georgetown University.
After receiving her BSN from Georgetown University, Dr. Lacey went on to complete her EdD from Teachers College at Columbia University. Dr. Lacey served Executive Director of Children’s National Medical Center, School Health Program. She was not only a trailblazer in nursing but also in education and influenced the lives of many. Some of Dr. Lacey's distinguished roles and honors include the following:
- Founding director of the Western Michigan University Bronson School of Nursing
- Honored as a Living Legend on the American Academy of Nursing in 2014
- Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing in 1990
- Distinguished alumni award from Georgetown’s School of Nursing
Dr. Mary Elizabeth Carnegia
Dr. Mary Elizabeth Carnegia was an influential nurse, scholar, and author. She was very passionate about
access to quality education. She was an avid advocate for improving the respect and recognition of African American nurses. Dr. Carnegia’s life’s work paved the way for other African American nurses and supported them through mentorship. Dr. Mary Elizabeth Carnegia professed, authored, mentored, challenged the nursing force and academia, and advocated diligently throughout her career. She is an individual who could inspire others to live in their purpose, uplift/mentor others, and champion for change. Dr. Carnegia’s work and impact surpassed her personal encounters; she authored 85 articles and delivered over 400 speeches.
Dr. Carnegia served many honorable roles during her career and lifetime. Her notable contributions are listed below:
- President of the American Academy of Nursing 1978 – 1979
- Honored as a Living Legend by the American Academy of Nursing in 1994
- Chair of the American Nurses’ Association’s Minority Fellowship Program Advisory Committee 1988-1999
- Dean and professor at the School of Nursing at Florida A&M University from 1945-1953
The impact of Dr. Carnegia and Dr. Lacey’s work is never-ending. They have implanted many gems in the nursing field both professionally and scholastically. We, at UHP, challenge you to center their work in your nursing endeavors.
