Oakland University’s Dean of Nursing recognized by National Black Nurses Association

Christopher Lance Coleman, Ph.D., the Dean of the School of Nursing at Oakland University, was recently recognized by the National Black Nurses Association as the recipient of the NBNA Trailblazer Award. He received his award during the 52nd Annual NBNA Institute and Conference, which was held in San Francisco, California. Coleman was also named as a Luminary Fellow in the new Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing.

According to an article on Oakland University’s website, Sheldon D. Fields, Ph.D., who serves as the president and CEO of the National Black Nurses Association, was quoted as saying in a letter he wrote to Coleman, “Your exemplary contributions in nursing have had a profound impact. In recognition of your leadership, dedication and contributions to the care of patients, especially your long-term work in HIV/AIDS prevention and nursing administration, I am honored to present you with a 2024 NBNA Trailblazer Award.”

The National Black Nurses Association, according to its website, is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1971 by Dr. Lauranne Sams, who was the former dean of nursing at Tuskegee University in Alabama. The NBNA states its mission is “to provide a forum for collective action by African American nurses to represent and provide a forum for Black nurses to advocate for and implement strategies to ensure access to the highest quality of health care for persons of color.”

The NBNA Trailblazer award, which Coleman was awarded, is given to leaders who have an impact on their communities through nursing, education, philanthropy, government, or the arts. The recipient is selected by the NBNA president.

In addition to his recognition as the NBNA trailblazer, Coleman was also recognized as one of the inaugural Luminary Fellows for the new Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing. The inaugural group of Luminary Fellows consists of individuals who each have 30 years of experience in nursing and demonstrate expertise and leadership in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.

“I am honored to receive this remarkable recognition from the National Black Nurses Association and to join the ranks of other outstanding nurse leaders who have left an indelible legacy on this nation,” said Coleman.

For more information about Oakland University, visit the school’s website.