Caitlin Billman: Welcome back to Practice Meets Purpose, the podcast where we highlight the journeys of JMU nursing alumni who are shaping healthcare with compassion, resilience, and purpose. I'm your host, Caitlin Bowman. Today we're featuring Ayana Brown, a graduate of our RNWSN program whose nursing journey has taken her from the bedside to opening her own business. Ayana's story is rooted in family, service, and a deep commitment to advocating for patients and caregivers. Her path is a powerful reminder of how nursing can evolve into leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact. Whether you're a current student, a fellow alum, or someone exploring the many directions a nursing career can grow, this conversation is full of heart and insight. Let's dive in. Today I'm joined by Ayana Brown, an alumni of our Rn to BSN program. Dr. Karen Reeks, our interim Rn to BSN coordinator, is also here. After graduation, Ayana headed to John Hop Johns Hopkins during COVID. She quickly became a resource and charge nurse, contributed to hospital-wide policy, and now co-owns Kin Bridge Senior Solutions, helping patients and families navigate care after discharge. So Ayana, thank you so much for joining us. How are you doing?
Ayana Brown: I just wanna say thank you. Thank you having me. I'm doing really well. I'm really honored to be here with you guys. just want to be thankful for the opportunity that you guys have given me to come here with my family and to share my story. becoming a nurse and just the journey. So I'm grateful to be here. Thank you.
Caitlin Billman: Awesome and and Karen, how are you? How are you too? Thank you.
Ayana Brown: I'm doing nothing. Very well.
Caitlin Billman: Awesome. All right, well let's just kind of jump in. I kinda wanna hear your story. You know, when you look back at your nursing journey, where does that really begin with you and like what inspired you to become a nurse?
Ayana Brown: Yeah, so I would say just When I was younger, I saw my grandma have to take care of her mom and her sister, so her aunt. So they both had Alzheimer's and dementia. And so she had to really become their caregiver. And she was already older and I just kind of saw the toll that it took on her. And so I realized And at that and realized quickly that caregiver burnout is very real. And I know when I Notice one. took the time to just kind of be patient with my great grandma or my great aunt, the difference in her behavior. and more patience with her and I was like this is just what people need, you know, being available, you know, someone being vulnerable and just taking the time to just be present with them. And I Yeah. think that really helped with a lot of her behaviors to kind of just like I said, calm them a bit. and so it started there and I was like, okay, what kind of Eu não field can I get into that would help me Yeah. to give care to someone and show them that my heart cares for them and just want to be willing to serve someone outside of myself. And so that's kind of what really started the nursing journey for me. You know, obviously there are but the bedside manner is huge for me, just making an impact on not only the patient but their family as well. lasting impression on how I can help, you know, make this easier for you. Whether that's, you know, being discharged from a hospital, being in skilled nursing, emotions, Going through all the different changes in plans of care, how can I be an advocate for you? Just And just really help you through that journey. So it really started with my grandma and just watching her take care of her family members and seeing how can I be a helpful to that as well.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, that's really awesome. I love how you, you know, using your your family experience and and just seeing that, I mean, I could s definitely see why that would push you towards, you know, choosing nursing. and when you were comparing and contrasting other schools, like if if you even did that, were there was there something that like JMU specifically does that you really resonated with, like about our R and C B S N program specifically?
Ayana Brown: I would say just the availability of maybe to be able to help you, even though the the be the instructors and how open they were. Program wasn't in person, I could still feel like I could reach out to my instructors. I could schedule a call with them. They were there, you know, I could I If I had an email and so even though I wasn't in person. I felt like I would have that support that I needed even being all the way in Baltimore. And so I think was That a big part in choosing the program as well. Yeah.
Caitlin Billman: I absolutely agree. I think, you know, I I do a lot of recruiting for for our new students and one thing I tell that tell every student is, you know, that the you know, the coursework, the things that you're learning, it's pretty standard across the board, but what sets us apart is our faculty. We have excellent faculty who really care about this program and they care about their students and they want you to set you up for success. And so they're gonna know your name, they're gonna know your face, they're gonna be checking in on you and I think that is what h why we are consistently rated one of the best in the countr in the the state. Yeah. I have to agree. Yeah.
Ayana Brown: Okay. Mm-hmm.
Caitlin Billman: So about you were talking about the RN to BSN curriculum, you know, and and and this this program. What about the stuff that you were learning? Is, you know, you're you're doing your classwork, you're doing your assignments while you're a working nurse. And so how did that transition to your real world, you know, nursing practice? Like what the stuff you were learning in the classroom, how did it apply while you were working?
Ayana Brown: Yeah, I think it was honestly really helpful in me. completing the R and the BSN because I have real life experiences. I'm at the bedside, I'm working with patients, I'm working with other people interdisciplinary communicate, having to figure out solutions with people on the internet team having the community to troubleshoot, you know, solutions and then I'm able to go back to the do a discussion board, do a classroom paper on the things that I'm learning, the things that I'm seeing, different diagnoses, how we're you know, and so being at going through this I think being the bedside, getting the hands-on experience then helped me to be Yeah. a better nurse in the program as well. I think And so I really I really that was a big part of it.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, absolutely. you know, were there moments where you kind of questioned whether you could keep going? I mean, 'cause I'm sure it was it was really stressful, you know, you know, having to balance being a student and being a nurse at the sum at the time. So were there moments where you questioned, you're like, I can't do this anymore? And if and if so, how did you push through that?
Ayana Brown: was already trial trying to get the R in. Once I got the R in I'm like I have to finish and nothing that's gonna stop me from getting it done because I I have to finish and I this is a part And so finish and there's I know that this of my calling and my purpose and what I'm supposed to do. And if I've been able to get this far, you know, I'm gonna be adversity that comes but my faith plays and that's be able to finish it all the way through. And there's that played a huge role in that. That's the biggest thing that I can say that, you know, being deferred from JMU initially to not being able to get in the traditional program but staying that course. is what I wanted in the end and just keeping that in the back of my mind. Like I've been able to get through tough things before. This is just another tough thing. It's gonna build my character. It's gonna make me a better person. make me a better nurse, a better leader, friend, coworker, and all of the things. So I think I just use all of those experiences to just help push me. And I wouldn't necessarily say Everyone. felt like I was gonna give up, especially in that R and the BSN program. I'm like, this is the the end in this, you know, season for me to to come really complete that BSN. There room for And I was like there's no failure, you know. I'm gonna stick to it and I'm gonna finish strong. And that's what I did.
Caitlin Billman: That's so awesome. I l I love how, you know, you're just you're just pushed through, you know. I I think that's a it's a huge strength of character on your part. so how has earning your BSN kind of impacted your overall career as a nurse?
Ayana Brown: I think the the BSN definitely helped. with the evidence-based practice portion. You're getting a lot of your hands-on things like that. In the BSN, I would understand I think in the traditional association on doing your clinicals and things, but in the I was able to understand the evidence behind a lot of things and then be able to implement that at the bedside. And so with the BS able to then maybe apply And you can only get to certain and so because I have levels depending on the credentials that you have. At my bachelor's, I was able to be a part of the or participate in the pressure injury surveys. Evidence Wound team participate in seeing the episode behind the purpose of turning, repositioning, checking patients, you know, doing your Q2 rounds. Like it's not just we're just turning patients. It's like, no, there's evidence behind why we do this. And Being able to see things on the on a bigger round, you know, understanding that w was able to help me to help others by g and I actually So if I didn't have the B wouldn't have been able to apply to this kind of clinical ladder program because the credentials needed also just and then we're being a part of the engagement and retention committee morale of the staff. What is it What is it that's keeping them? That's you know, keeping staff here, retention we have enough nurses. retention and making sure that we have how are we treating the nurses. It's not just filling up the unit so that we have someone to take care of the patients. Are you competent enough and are you willing to help the patients? And so I think just having the BSN so I allow me to be more well rounded. could be able to go into different positions and tease to these different rooms that maybe I'd never thought I would be in and then getting Yeah. into the charge nurse role. I mean I'm at the the round and capacity and just all the behind the scenes things meetings in the mornings. more like the administrative side of nursing that you don't really see at the bedside. And so I think because of the BSN BSN it allowed me to go into those spaces and to be competent with what I was learning and just being able to implement that.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, yeah, and you kind of already, you know, answered this question, but you know, are there any other doors that you think, you know, a BSN opens for nurses, maybe not just you specifically, but kind of in general, things that things that you know of that may not have been accessible with an ADN alone?
Ayana Brown: I think even if you're thinking of leaving the bedside the about side opportunities that are available with the BSN left For example for me when I the bedside I did utilization review nursing and that's So chart review you know making sure that the clinicals are enough to make Great enough to send an insurance company to sure that the patient's you know billing is getting covered based on the assessment that you have and the notes that you have to have And so I believe that I had a BSN for that and I think even going into other roles, maybe in administration, you're gonna need that bachelor's nursing. Now And even now as a business owner, learn Just the the things that you and the education that you get more It makes me more competent. Someone sees R and B S N they're like, she spent time doing this, She's not just you know, saying, R and I can do all of these things, but she actually took the time to go to school. It's not just just letters behind her name. She took the time to educate herself so now that she can be the A better asset too. community or the people that she's serving. So I think it helps in that way too. Yeah.
Caitlin Billman: I like how you said, you know, they took the time to to learn. It shows the intention and and yeah, I think that's really cool. so, you know, I'm sure the decision to you know to go back to school is a really overwhelming one. and so what would you say to RNs who have their ADN who are thinking to the thinking about going back to school to get their BSN and kind of feel that overwhelming, you know, sense of dread or or just unsure. It's like, does it really even matter? Is it gonna change how I practice? You know, what what kind of advice would you give to them?
Ayana Brown: say you've already done the hard work. J just get the VSN. you you're already doing the work Already doing the work. and so it's almost I won't say it's easier, but it's more you're already doing applicable in the work as a nurse just enroll I don't want to say just enroll but It's almost easy. It was easy for me to just I know I'm getting my arm. RN I enrolled right away after I got my RN because I just thought that was the way to go, you know. I'm able to get more education In a quick I mean a short amount of time as well and it didn't cause me kind of doing working through me any additional stress really. I mean depending on what kind of work you're doing three days a week. I didn't I wasn't married, didn't have kids or or anything at the time and that can change your circumstances but very doable, But I feel like it was still very especially with our our in the BSN program, you know. It it was very the c like we had a papers, but it was very open to where it it didn't didn't feel like it was a lot of stress for me. I kind of enjoy doing that. Yeah. because I can communicate with my people to see what they're doing, see what states they're how they're managing things or even using as a resource to say, hey, how are you managing this? from and how certain things at the bedside or how are you managing this paper or this project and just kind of bouncing ideas off of each other. So to me it wasn't really a difficult decision to make and I was on the fence to Just encourage anyone on the family. just do it, just get it done. I wouldn't wait, you know, because then you may feel like, it's it's too too late or I let so much time go by, I think right after getting that on enroll Right. into the BSN and just keep the momentum up. Yeah. Too. So I would just encourage someone to Just do it that way. And before you know it it's over. You're it's it's it's over very quickly because you're working and you're doing school and so it kinda flies by. That's what it felt like for me anyway.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah. Yeah, and I'm sure I mean we we kind of talked touched on this before, but you know, you're you're doing school and you're actually applying the things that you're learning in class and I'm sure that that was an advantage.
Ayana Brown: Yes. And even I don't know if you're gonna ask this, but I was just thinking about the different projects that we had in the R and the BSN program. One was like a legacy map presentation that we did or doing a presentation to the community that allowed me to step out of my shell and I did a presentation about the different opportunities available in nursing to a program called Nursing Careers and Pathways in my hometown where they have a program that students are interested in nursing and healthcare. They allow them, they have speakers that come in and they just give them different resources and different education, you know, as they're you know trying to look into those different roles. And so it gave me an opportunity to kind of be a leader in that way and just share with another generation what's even out there. I think in school we just learn about bedside nursing, not necessarily knowing that there's other avenues of nursing. And so that gave me that opportunity to create a PowerPoint, almost to be like a a teacher. to create a PowerPoint and just share that experience with other other students that may have not known that was available. And then I would say for the legacy map presentation, it forced you to think about your future and put things down on paper and write out, you know, what would be your vision, your mission, your values, how are you gonna follow through with that? And so I even think back to it now like, wow, I didn't know, you know, where I would be today, but having that kind of legacy map made me think outside of myself to see what kind of legacy can I leave with the things that I'm doing now. So
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, that's awesome. You know, and and talking about all these different kinds of, you know, opportunities in nursing that you might not even consider, you know, how can nurses use the R and to B it's R and to BS in experience to open door for leadership, you know, entrepreneurship and advanced practice. I mean you're you're a a have a business now. How d how did that, you know, come about with and and how did your R and to BS in experience kind of launch you onto this path?
Ayana Brown: Yeah, I would say, it kinda came about I d I I can't really put it into words. It kinda just blossomed up and something that me and my husband have been discussing. We are both very intentional about wanting to help our community and figuring out how we can do that, stepping away from our jobs. And so he knows with me being a nurse how I love to serve people and serve others and so we were like, What can we do to help and you know, apply what I've learned to help other people and so with Kenbridge Senior Solutions we're actually advocating to help families as they're transitioning out of the hospital or skilled nursing and maybe needing to go into independent living, assisted living, or memory care. Or if they're not able to go into somewhere like that, if they want to stay at home in Asian place, providing resources like companion services, home health services, if they're low income, providing resources where they can get accessible wheelchairs, glasses, adaptive equipment, assistive devices and things like that. So really being an advocate after discharge. I feel like there's such a gap between, you know, the nurse she does her discharge paperwork patients gone, you don't know what happens. And there's a lot of patients that are kinda and their families that are kinda left in the dark and they don't really know what to do after discharge or they may not feel like their loved one is safe and they're like, Okay, what am I gonna do with this? I'm working full time, I'm not able to manage them at home. We're like I said, we're looking into different communities or looking at adult day programs that they can go into and really being an advocate to be there step by step, really holding their hand, honestly. And being able to make the time to do that. I really enjoy that and I really find it purposeful because the time that I've spent becoming a RN and then the BSN, there's so much that I've learned, not only with the hands on, but like the evidence based that I'm able to incorporate all of that into how I'm working with families. I have that experience and I feel like and even being a charge nurse and just knowing how to manage certain things and being solution based because now someone's looking to you for instructions or directions. You can't just say, I don't know, you know, I'm it's like I'm gonna find out. Maybe I don't have it right now, but we'll get to a solution. And I think that mindset has helped me now with families who have questions. They're trying to figure out things, whether that's you know, power of attorney forms, advanced medical directives, different forms, who they need to go through, I'm gonna figure out how it needs to get done because that's just I can't just not do anything. And so I think all of that just b the RN to B S N becoming a nurse, being at the bedside, all of it has helped me to just be a better advocate for patients and their families. So I would say that's how it kinda all comes together. Yeah.
Caitlin Billman: this your your business I I have to say is really cool, you know, a and you know, for me personally I think that's something that would have helped. You know, my my grandfather just passed away back in in April And, you know, he had gone into the hospital and then he n went into rehab and he never went home. And we were just at the point where we were talking about my dad and his sister were talking about some kind of long long term facility and this is in Texas, so you know, they didn't have something like that. So I think that is a huge need that you're fulfilling. So I really find that admirable.
Ayana Brown: Yeah, thank you, thank you.
Caitlin Billman: So sh what should students know about the R into B S N pathway that maybe isn't obvious from the website? You know everyone does their research, you know, and and we do our best to put as much information as possible. But, you know, w what are the things like give us like the inside scoop that you think, you know, the the things that students should really know about this program?
Ayana Brown: Think I would say If there's something that's not maybe clear on the website or you're not sure, why don't you call and talk to somebody directly? I think that makes all the difference. Because then you can get your questions answered. You may feel more comfortable, you're able to talk to someone, and maybe just getting feedback from previous students as well. But as far as something that they should know, I think like I said, it may not be advertised, it's just the support that you have. with the if administration knowing that they're there for you and that if there's anything you need they can help you through that if you have a question even if it's something at the bedside you're like I I know I have my RN but I'm still only one year into being at the bedside how did you get through this or what skills did you use to you know try to figure things out or what advice would you give me to kind of help propel you know what I'm doing? But yeah I would I would just say it's As far as inside scoop, know that you have resources, know that you have support, and don't be afraid to reach out. I think that's where a lot of people mess up. They just think, I'm the only one going through this or I I don't know the answer, so I'm just not gonna ask. But I think like I said, from the administrators to the different projects that we had, it really pushed me out of my comfort zone and I think that allowed me to be in this position that I'm in today.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, that's that's really cool. I kinda wanna take a little detour and kind of talk about the scholarship you created in your name. Can you kind of give us the story behind it and and just kind of why it means so much to you to kind of give back and how it kind of fits into your larger story of, you know, being a nurse, supporting seniors. just kind of tell us about that.
Ayana Brown: Yeah, so the scholarship actually came about when I was it was twenty seventeen and I actually had just become a nursing care partner at through Sintera College of Health Sciences and I started working at Sintera Rockingham and there was an organization that took a chance on me. They saw my motivation and how intentional I was about getting into healthcare and becoming a nurse and so this nonprofit decided to help me and give me assistance, basically starting their own foundation. to kind of help me get the funds that I needed to get through the nursing care partner program. Shortly after that, they followed my journey with the nursing care partner, the RN, R and the VSN, going to Johns Hopkins, they followed me all the way and they're like, we need to make a scholarship in your name so you can now help other students that may be interested in being a mentor for them. And so the scholarship is through my old high school. Well the nonprofit is called We Believe in Your Child Too. But But we are catered to the students from my previous high school who are interested in healthcare, health sciences, and they're usually enrolled in the Health Sciences Academy program. But we go through an interview process every year and we see, you know, what the patient I mean what the what the students are interested in, what schools they may be going to, their GPA, any extracurricular activities that they're in and see basically if what they have going on would uphold the scholarship, you know, through perseverance, through adversity, you know, what are some of the things that you're going through that this scholarship could help you with? Because that's all a part of my story. And so that's kind of how the scholarship came about. And I think now we have about five students that have received the scholarship in my name. And they're all doing well. They're at different universities pursuing nursing degrees and so we follow up with them occasionally and it's it's just been really rewarding. see that to to be able to make that impact on others.
Caitlin Billman: That's awesome. You know, and and yeah, giving back is is seems to be a huge part of your story. So how does completing your BSN kind of fit into that? You know, what what do you see your your role as, you know, a mentor, a leader sh a leader, you know, inspiration kind of to to other students?
Ayana Brown: say I know with with the BS this isn't something that I've really thought about but knowing that I have the BSN I know to probably be a teacher or administrator you probably need to go a little bit higher but even just to to teach a class or to do do something maybe not as direct as a lot of education but maybe support mentorship leadership class or something like that. I think the BSN would be able to help me kind of facilitate something like that or even doing like nurse consulting and leading others, leading families to, you know, different decisions that they have to make. and so I think maybe I think maybe just the bachelors and nursing, having that education can kinda help me h help and educate other people in a way as well.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, do you see yourself maybe coming back to school, you know, doing a a master's program? I know that's a probably a huge question, but I'm just I'm just really curious.
Karen Weeks: It's just to know that our alumni can get into our graduate program automatically as long as they meet admission criteria. That is
Ayana Brown: Okay.
Karen Weeks: a like a little perk here that we have at JMU. Yeah.
Ayana Brown: Yeah, I hadn't really thought about that honestly. I think I've been just so engulfed with everything that's going on. But with everything that I'm doing, I know I talked to a friend before that has attended to JMU she's been in the JMU pr nursing program and everything that I've told her, she's like, This sounds like it could be DNP level of you know, degree with all the things that you're doing. And so she made me think about that a little bit, but we're just not there yet. Yeah.
Caitlin Billman: Tot totally understand. I was just I was just really curious, you know. I and yeah, that having that that guaranteed admission I think is a huge advantage. You know, when I'm doing recruiting of potential freshmen, I tell them that because it's a you know, it's a perk. And if you're comparing different schools of nursing, that's and you know, being a nurse practitioner, getting your D P one day, if that's something that you see in your future, that might be a good reason to choose JMU. Yeah.
Ayana Brown: Yeah.
Karen Weeks: And like your legacy map, right? You were talking about that assignment and how that impacts, but you just kinda never know. I mean, I'm I'm like you in the sense of I went through a diploma program and worked my way up. I never thought I would have my D P and be in this part. So you just you the the education gives you that opportunity and those future direction for yourself. So we we you know, you can always apply and come on.
Caitlin Billman: Thank you. Yeah, I think it's nursing is such a broad, you know, field and so there's so much that you can you can do with it and kind of the whole reason behind this podcast is to explore the different, you know, different kinds of jobs you can it's more than just bedside nursing.
Ayana Brown: Mm-hmm.
Karen Weeks: Can I just throw I just wanna circle back 'cause one of the key things is about you have your ADN and then the the bachelor's. And you know that there's lots of talk out there with the ADN nurse and the BSN nurse take the same N CLEX exam for licensure. Can you maybe describe a little bit 'cause some students that I hear from are like, I don't wanna do papers, you know, it's a lot of writing in this. Can you describe maybe how these inside assignments and how these things really impacted you and how you gained some of those skills that you applied at the bedside. And you know, you talked a little bit about evidence-based practice, which I loved, and how did that impact you and how did you look at quality and improvement and some of that leadership that you learned in this particular program versus your ADN.
Ayana Brown: I would say it helped me to even better educate family because they don't really know what's going on. And you can do all the tasks and all the different you can hang medications, do this and that, but what is this medication? What does it mean? What's it gonna do to me? What are the risks, what are the side effects? And yeah, you learn that in the associate's degree. But on the bigger scale with the bachelors, there's just so much more education that's just not with the papers and the discussion boards, but While you're doing that, learning yourself, like not just to get a paper done, not just to get a discussion board done, but how can I use this to help me to help the others, to help the families, to help the patient, to help another nurse if I have to be a preceptor, because they're trying to learn from you and I think the BSN helps you get that exercise. education to then now teach someone else. And so I I've ended up in preceptor roles, resource nurse, charge nurse. And if I didn't have that education, how would I then be able to teach them well? And for them to be a better nurse and then now they can teach someone else well. So I just think having that education really allowed me to just dig a little deeper and not just okay I'm just getting the BSN but Why is this important, not only for me, but for the patients, the families, the people that I'm serving, even sometimes the doctors. Th I mean, you know, just being educated to say this is why we're doing one thing and why we shouldn't do something else. And so I would say to look at it not just, you're just doing this the papers or the discussion, how can you really embrace this to learn for yourself? 'Cause we don't know everything, you know. I think getting a b a bachelor's is notable because you've put yourself in this position to keep learning. You didn't just stop, you know, it's easy. It's easy to stop. It's harder to keep going, even when it's hard. But I would say, you know, it's not just for you. It's for everybody around you, even your parents, your grandparents, in your family. You can educate them, you know, and having that education I think just makes all the difference. Does that answer? yes. Okay. I appreciate that.
Caitlin Billman: Well, as we kind of wrap up a little bit, I always like to kind of end with whatever kind of message you want to give. So if you could summarize the value of earning a BSN from JMU in one message to current ADN nurses, kind of what would that message be?
Ayana Brown: I would say I would just say don't lose hope. Don't lose faith because if it's meant for you, it's gonna happen, but you have to do the work. And you have to know that, you know, everything happens for a reason. You know, if you're struggling in one season or one semester, just know it's not gonna last. and just continue to persevere through it. And I would say having the support around you, whether that's your teachers or your classmates, your family, letting them know how if you're struggling, how they can support you, how they can help you, and then allowing them to just encourage you and to keep you moving forward. And so I would say, to those students who are seeking, you know, they have the R R and and trying to finish their BN V S N or get their B S N to just stay the course. because life just trying to get your BSN that's a small portion of the things you're gonna go through in your life. And so if that's something you can get over one hurdle, is it gonna be another hurdle. And so you just have to keep pushing through and it's building your character, it's building you to be who you need to be, not only for yourself but the people around you. And I think that's that makes all the difference. So
Caitlin Billman: Awesome. Well, Ayana, thank you so much. And Karen, thank you so much for being part of this conversation. I really enjoyed it, and I hope you guys did too.
Ayana Brown: Thank you. No, I I thank you for taking the time to talk with me. This has been a really long journey for me. to come back here is really a full circle moment. Sorry.
Caitlin Billman: It's okay.
Ayana Brown: it was a very difficult journey for me to get here. like I said before getting deferred from JMU, not being able to get into the traditional program, having the option to even do the R and the B S N program. I'm even grateful that that was another option. Not all schools maybe offer that. That's something to think about too. If you're not able to do the traditional way, what schools do offer the R and the B S N program and what would be able to support me through that process, especially if I'm out of state or, you know, it's every Everything's remote, where can I still get that support? And so to go through all of this and to come back here and to be able to share my journey and my testimony has really been special and I'm just really grateful and blessed to be here. So thank you. So I'm happy to have you. Thank
Caitlin Billman: Thank you for joining us for this episode of Practice Made Purpose. Ayana's journey shows how nursing can become a lifelong calling, one shaped by compassion, perseverance, and the desire to make care safer and more supportive for patients and families. If you enjoyed today's conversation, be sure to follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. And if you're a JMU nursing alum with a story to share, or you know someone who is, I'd love to hear from you. You'll find ways to connect with us in the episode description. Every nurse has a story. Thanks for listening to this one today. See you next time.
Ayana Brown: I just wanna say thank you. Thank you having me. I'm doing really well. I'm really honored to be here with you guys. just want to be thankful for the opportunity that you guys have given me to come here with my family and to share my story. becoming a nurse and just the journey. So I'm grateful to be here. Thank you.
Caitlin Billman: Awesome and and Karen, how are you? How are you too? Thank you.
Ayana Brown: I'm doing nothing. Very well.
Caitlin Billman: Awesome. All right, well let's just kind of jump in. I kinda wanna hear your story. You know, when you look back at your nursing journey, where does that really begin with you and like what inspired you to become a nurse?
Ayana Brown: Yeah, so I would say just When I was younger, I saw my grandma have to take care of her mom and her sister, so her aunt. So they both had Alzheimer's and dementia. And so she had to really become their caregiver. And she was already older and I just kind of saw the toll that it took on her. And so I realized And at that and realized quickly that caregiver burnout is very real. And I know when I Notice one. took the time to just kind of be patient with my great grandma or my great aunt, the difference in her behavior. and more patience with her and I was like this is just what people need, you know, being available, you know, someone being vulnerable and just taking the time to just be present with them. And I Yeah. think that really helped with a lot of her behaviors to kind of just like I said, calm them a bit. and so it started there and I was like, okay, what kind of Eu não field can I get into that would help me Yeah. to give care to someone and show them that my heart cares for them and just want to be willing to serve someone outside of myself. And so that's kind of what really started the nursing journey for me. You know, obviously there are but the bedside manner is huge for me, just making an impact on not only the patient but their family as well. lasting impression on how I can help, you know, make this easier for you. Whether that's, you know, being discharged from a hospital, being in skilled nursing, emotions, Going through all the different changes in plans of care, how can I be an advocate for you? Just And just really help you through that journey. So it really started with my grandma and just watching her take care of her family members and seeing how can I be a helpful to that as well.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, that's really awesome. I love how you, you know, using your your family experience and and just seeing that, I mean, I could s definitely see why that would push you towards, you know, choosing nursing. and when you were comparing and contrasting other schools, like if if you even did that, were there was there something that like JMU specifically does that you really resonated with, like about our R and C B S N program specifically?
Ayana Brown: I would say just the availability of maybe to be able to help you, even though the the be the instructors and how open they were. Program wasn't in person, I could still feel like I could reach out to my instructors. I could schedule a call with them. They were there, you know, I could I If I had an email and so even though I wasn't in person. I felt like I would have that support that I needed even being all the way in Baltimore. And so I think was That a big part in choosing the program as well. Yeah.
Caitlin Billman: I absolutely agree. I think, you know, I I do a lot of recruiting for for our new students and one thing I tell that tell every student is, you know, that the you know, the coursework, the things that you're learning, it's pretty standard across the board, but what sets us apart is our faculty. We have excellent faculty who really care about this program and they care about their students and they want you to set you up for success. And so they're gonna know your name, they're gonna know your face, they're gonna be checking in on you and I think that is what h why we are consistently rated one of the best in the countr in the the state. Yeah. I have to agree. Yeah.
Ayana Brown: Okay. Mm-hmm.
Caitlin Billman: So about you were talking about the RN to BSN curriculum, you know, and and and this this program. What about the stuff that you were learning? Is, you know, you're you're doing your classwork, you're doing your assignments while you're a working nurse. And so how did that transition to your real world, you know, nursing practice? Like what the stuff you were learning in the classroom, how did it apply while you were working?
Ayana Brown: Yeah, I think it was honestly really helpful in me. completing the R and the BSN because I have real life experiences. I'm at the bedside, I'm working with patients, I'm working with other people interdisciplinary communicate, having to figure out solutions with people on the internet team having the community to troubleshoot, you know, solutions and then I'm able to go back to the do a discussion board, do a classroom paper on the things that I'm learning, the things that I'm seeing, different diagnoses, how we're you know, and so being at going through this I think being the bedside, getting the hands-on experience then helped me to be Yeah. a better nurse in the program as well. I think And so I really I really that was a big part of it.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, absolutely. you know, were there moments where you kind of questioned whether you could keep going? I mean, 'cause I'm sure it was it was really stressful, you know, you know, having to balance being a student and being a nurse at the sum at the time. So were there moments where you questioned, you're like, I can't do this anymore? And if and if so, how did you push through that?
Ayana Brown: was already trial trying to get the R in. Once I got the R in I'm like I have to finish and nothing that's gonna stop me from getting it done because I I have to finish and I this is a part And so finish and there's I know that this of my calling and my purpose and what I'm supposed to do. And if I've been able to get this far, you know, I'm gonna be adversity that comes but my faith plays and that's be able to finish it all the way through. And there's that played a huge role in that. That's the biggest thing that I can say that, you know, being deferred from JMU initially to not being able to get in the traditional program but staying that course. is what I wanted in the end and just keeping that in the back of my mind. Like I've been able to get through tough things before. This is just another tough thing. It's gonna build my character. It's gonna make me a better person. make me a better nurse, a better leader, friend, coworker, and all of the things. So I think I just use all of those experiences to just help push me. And I wouldn't necessarily say Everyone. felt like I was gonna give up, especially in that R and the BSN program. I'm like, this is the the end in this, you know, season for me to to come really complete that BSN. There room for And I was like there's no failure, you know. I'm gonna stick to it and I'm gonna finish strong. And that's what I did.
Caitlin Billman: That's so awesome. I l I love how, you know, you're just you're just pushed through, you know. I I think that's a it's a huge strength of character on your part. so how has earning your BSN kind of impacted your overall career as a nurse?
Ayana Brown: I think the the BSN definitely helped. with the evidence-based practice portion. You're getting a lot of your hands-on things like that. In the BSN, I would understand I think in the traditional association on doing your clinicals and things, but in the I was able to understand the evidence behind a lot of things and then be able to implement that at the bedside. And so with the BS able to then maybe apply And you can only get to certain and so because I have levels depending on the credentials that you have. At my bachelor's, I was able to be a part of the or participate in the pressure injury surveys. Evidence Wound team participate in seeing the episode behind the purpose of turning, repositioning, checking patients, you know, doing your Q2 rounds. Like it's not just we're just turning patients. It's like, no, there's evidence behind why we do this. And Being able to see things on the on a bigger round, you know, understanding that w was able to help me to help others by g and I actually So if I didn't have the B wouldn't have been able to apply to this kind of clinical ladder program because the credentials needed also just and then we're being a part of the engagement and retention committee morale of the staff. What is it What is it that's keeping them? That's you know, keeping staff here, retention we have enough nurses. retention and making sure that we have how are we treating the nurses. It's not just filling up the unit so that we have someone to take care of the patients. Are you competent enough and are you willing to help the patients? And so I think just having the BSN so I allow me to be more well rounded. could be able to go into different positions and tease to these different rooms that maybe I'd never thought I would be in and then getting Yeah. into the charge nurse role. I mean I'm at the the round and capacity and just all the behind the scenes things meetings in the mornings. more like the administrative side of nursing that you don't really see at the bedside. And so I think because of the BSN BSN it allowed me to go into those spaces and to be competent with what I was learning and just being able to implement that.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, yeah, and you kind of already, you know, answered this question, but you know, are there any other doors that you think, you know, a BSN opens for nurses, maybe not just you specifically, but kind of in general, things that things that you know of that may not have been accessible with an ADN alone?
Ayana Brown: I think even if you're thinking of leaving the bedside the about side opportunities that are available with the BSN left For example for me when I the bedside I did utilization review nursing and that's So chart review you know making sure that the clinicals are enough to make Great enough to send an insurance company to sure that the patient's you know billing is getting covered based on the assessment that you have and the notes that you have to have And so I believe that I had a BSN for that and I think even going into other roles, maybe in administration, you're gonna need that bachelor's nursing. Now And even now as a business owner, learn Just the the things that you and the education that you get more It makes me more competent. Someone sees R and B S N they're like, she spent time doing this, She's not just you know, saying, R and I can do all of these things, but she actually took the time to go to school. It's not just just letters behind her name. She took the time to educate herself so now that she can be the A better asset too. community or the people that she's serving. So I think it helps in that way too. Yeah.
Caitlin Billman: I like how you said, you know, they took the time to to learn. It shows the intention and and yeah, I think that's really cool. so, you know, I'm sure the decision to you know to go back to school is a really overwhelming one. and so what would you say to RNs who have their ADN who are thinking to the thinking about going back to school to get their BSN and kind of feel that overwhelming, you know, sense of dread or or just unsure. It's like, does it really even matter? Is it gonna change how I practice? You know, what what kind of advice would you give to them?
Ayana Brown: say you've already done the hard work. J just get the VSN. you you're already doing the work Already doing the work. and so it's almost I won't say it's easier, but it's more you're already doing applicable in the work as a nurse just enroll I don't want to say just enroll but It's almost easy. It was easy for me to just I know I'm getting my arm. RN I enrolled right away after I got my RN because I just thought that was the way to go, you know. I'm able to get more education In a quick I mean a short amount of time as well and it didn't cause me kind of doing working through me any additional stress really. I mean depending on what kind of work you're doing three days a week. I didn't I wasn't married, didn't have kids or or anything at the time and that can change your circumstances but very doable, But I feel like it was still very especially with our our in the BSN program, you know. It it was very the c like we had a papers, but it was very open to where it it didn't didn't feel like it was a lot of stress for me. I kind of enjoy doing that. Yeah. because I can communicate with my people to see what they're doing, see what states they're how they're managing things or even using as a resource to say, hey, how are you managing this? from and how certain things at the bedside or how are you managing this paper or this project and just kind of bouncing ideas off of each other. So to me it wasn't really a difficult decision to make and I was on the fence to Just encourage anyone on the family. just do it, just get it done. I wouldn't wait, you know, because then you may feel like, it's it's too too late or I let so much time go by, I think right after getting that on enroll Right. into the BSN and just keep the momentum up. Yeah. Too. So I would just encourage someone to Just do it that way. And before you know it it's over. You're it's it's it's over very quickly because you're working and you're doing school and so it kinda flies by. That's what it felt like for me anyway.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah. Yeah, and I'm sure I mean we we kind of talked touched on this before, but you know, you're you're doing school and you're actually applying the things that you're learning in class and I'm sure that that was an advantage.
Ayana Brown: Yes. And even I don't know if you're gonna ask this, but I was just thinking about the different projects that we had in the R and the BSN program. One was like a legacy map presentation that we did or doing a presentation to the community that allowed me to step out of my shell and I did a presentation about the different opportunities available in nursing to a program called Nursing Careers and Pathways in my hometown where they have a program that students are interested in nursing and healthcare. They allow them, they have speakers that come in and they just give them different resources and different education, you know, as they're you know trying to look into those different roles. And so it gave me an opportunity to kind of be a leader in that way and just share with another generation what's even out there. I think in school we just learn about bedside nursing, not necessarily knowing that there's other avenues of nursing. And so that gave me that opportunity to create a PowerPoint, almost to be like a a teacher. to create a PowerPoint and just share that experience with other other students that may have not known that was available. And then I would say for the legacy map presentation, it forced you to think about your future and put things down on paper and write out, you know, what would be your vision, your mission, your values, how are you gonna follow through with that? And so I even think back to it now like, wow, I didn't know, you know, where I would be today, but having that kind of legacy map made me think outside of myself to see what kind of legacy can I leave with the things that I'm doing now. So
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, that's awesome. You know, and and talking about all these different kinds of, you know, opportunities in nursing that you might not even consider, you know, how can nurses use the R and to B it's R and to BS in experience to open door for leadership, you know, entrepreneurship and advanced practice. I mean you're you're a a have a business now. How d how did that, you know, come about with and and how did your R and to BS in experience kind of launch you onto this path?
Ayana Brown: Yeah, I would say, it kinda came about I d I I can't really put it into words. It kinda just blossomed up and something that me and my husband have been discussing. We are both very intentional about wanting to help our community and figuring out how we can do that, stepping away from our jobs. And so he knows with me being a nurse how I love to serve people and serve others and so we were like, What can we do to help and you know, apply what I've learned to help other people and so with Kenbridge Senior Solutions we're actually advocating to help families as they're transitioning out of the hospital or skilled nursing and maybe needing to go into independent living, assisted living, or memory care. Or if they're not able to go into somewhere like that, if they want to stay at home in Asian place, providing resources like companion services, home health services, if they're low income, providing resources where they can get accessible wheelchairs, glasses, adaptive equipment, assistive devices and things like that. So really being an advocate after discharge. I feel like there's such a gap between, you know, the nurse she does her discharge paperwork patients gone, you don't know what happens. And there's a lot of patients that are kinda and their families that are kinda left in the dark and they don't really know what to do after discharge or they may not feel like their loved one is safe and they're like, Okay, what am I gonna do with this? I'm working full time, I'm not able to manage them at home. We're like I said, we're looking into different communities or looking at adult day programs that they can go into and really being an advocate to be there step by step, really holding their hand, honestly. And being able to make the time to do that. I really enjoy that and I really find it purposeful because the time that I've spent becoming a RN and then the BSN, there's so much that I've learned, not only with the hands on, but like the evidence based that I'm able to incorporate all of that into how I'm working with families. I have that experience and I feel like and even being a charge nurse and just knowing how to manage certain things and being solution based because now someone's looking to you for instructions or directions. You can't just say, I don't know, you know, I'm it's like I'm gonna find out. Maybe I don't have it right now, but we'll get to a solution. And I think that mindset has helped me now with families who have questions. They're trying to figure out things, whether that's you know, power of attorney forms, advanced medical directives, different forms, who they need to go through, I'm gonna figure out how it needs to get done because that's just I can't just not do anything. And so I think all of that just b the RN to B S N becoming a nurse, being at the bedside, all of it has helped me to just be a better advocate for patients and their families. So I would say that's how it kinda all comes together. Yeah.
Caitlin Billman: this your your business I I have to say is really cool, you know, a and you know, for me personally I think that's something that would have helped. You know, my my grandfather just passed away back in in April And, you know, he had gone into the hospital and then he n went into rehab and he never went home. And we were just at the point where we were talking about my dad and his sister were talking about some kind of long long term facility and this is in Texas, so you know, they didn't have something like that. So I think that is a huge need that you're fulfilling. So I really find that admirable.
Ayana Brown: Yeah, thank you, thank you.
Caitlin Billman: So sh what should students know about the R into B S N pathway that maybe isn't obvious from the website? You know everyone does their research, you know, and and we do our best to put as much information as possible. But, you know, w what are the things like give us like the inside scoop that you think, you know, the the things that students should really know about this program?
Ayana Brown: Think I would say If there's something that's not maybe clear on the website or you're not sure, why don't you call and talk to somebody directly? I think that makes all the difference. Because then you can get your questions answered. You may feel more comfortable, you're able to talk to someone, and maybe just getting feedback from previous students as well. But as far as something that they should know, I think like I said, it may not be advertised, it's just the support that you have. with the if administration knowing that they're there for you and that if there's anything you need they can help you through that if you have a question even if it's something at the bedside you're like I I know I have my RN but I'm still only one year into being at the bedside how did you get through this or what skills did you use to you know try to figure things out or what advice would you give me to kind of help propel you know what I'm doing? But yeah I would I would just say it's As far as inside scoop, know that you have resources, know that you have support, and don't be afraid to reach out. I think that's where a lot of people mess up. They just think, I'm the only one going through this or I I don't know the answer, so I'm just not gonna ask. But I think like I said, from the administrators to the different projects that we had, it really pushed me out of my comfort zone and I think that allowed me to be in this position that I'm in today.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, that's that's really cool. I kinda wanna take a little detour and kind of talk about the scholarship you created in your name. Can you kind of give us the story behind it and and just kind of why it means so much to you to kind of give back and how it kind of fits into your larger story of, you know, being a nurse, supporting seniors. just kind of tell us about that.
Ayana Brown: Yeah, so the scholarship actually came about when I was it was twenty seventeen and I actually had just become a nursing care partner at through Sintera College of Health Sciences and I started working at Sintera Rockingham and there was an organization that took a chance on me. They saw my motivation and how intentional I was about getting into healthcare and becoming a nurse and so this nonprofit decided to help me and give me assistance, basically starting their own foundation. to kind of help me get the funds that I needed to get through the nursing care partner program. Shortly after that, they followed my journey with the nursing care partner, the RN, R and the VSN, going to Johns Hopkins, they followed me all the way and they're like, we need to make a scholarship in your name so you can now help other students that may be interested in being a mentor for them. And so the scholarship is through my old high school. Well the nonprofit is called We Believe in Your Child Too. But But we are catered to the students from my previous high school who are interested in healthcare, health sciences, and they're usually enrolled in the Health Sciences Academy program. But we go through an interview process every year and we see, you know, what the patient I mean what the what the students are interested in, what schools they may be going to, their GPA, any extracurricular activities that they're in and see basically if what they have going on would uphold the scholarship, you know, through perseverance, through adversity, you know, what are some of the things that you're going through that this scholarship could help you with? Because that's all a part of my story. And so that's kind of how the scholarship came about. And I think now we have about five students that have received the scholarship in my name. And they're all doing well. They're at different universities pursuing nursing degrees and so we follow up with them occasionally and it's it's just been really rewarding. see that to to be able to make that impact on others.
Caitlin Billman: That's awesome. You know, and and yeah, giving back is is seems to be a huge part of your story. So how does completing your BSN kind of fit into that? You know, what what do you see your your role as, you know, a mentor, a leader sh a leader, you know, inspiration kind of to to other students?
Ayana Brown: say I know with with the BS this isn't something that I've really thought about but knowing that I have the BSN I know to probably be a teacher or administrator you probably need to go a little bit higher but even just to to teach a class or to do do something maybe not as direct as a lot of education but maybe support mentorship leadership class or something like that. I think the BSN would be able to help me kind of facilitate something like that or even doing like nurse consulting and leading others, leading families to, you know, different decisions that they have to make. and so I think maybe I think maybe just the bachelors and nursing, having that education can kinda help me h help and educate other people in a way as well.
Caitlin Billman: Yeah, do you see yourself maybe coming back to school, you know, doing a a master's program? I know that's a probably a huge question, but I'm just I'm just really curious.
Karen Weeks: It's just to know that our alumni can get into our graduate program automatically as long as they meet admission criteria. That is
Ayana Brown: Okay.
Karen Weeks: a like a little perk here that we have at JMU. Yeah.
Ayana Brown: Yeah, I hadn't really thought about that honestly. I think I've been just so engulfed with everything that's going on. But with everything that I'm doing, I know I talked to a friend before that has attended to JMU she's been in the JMU pr nursing program and everything that I've told her, she's like, This sounds like it could be DNP level of you know, degree with all the things that you're doing. And so she made me think about that a little bit, but we're just not there yet. Yeah.
Caitlin Billman: Tot totally understand. I was just I was just really curious, you know. I and yeah, that having that that guaranteed admission I think is a huge advantage. You know, when I'm doing recruiting of potential freshmen, I tell them that because it's a you know, it's a perk. And if you're comparing different schools of nursing, that's and you know, being a nurse practitioner, getting your D P one day, if that's something that you see in your future, that might be a good reason to choose JMU. Yeah.
Ayana Brown: Yeah.
Karen Weeks: And like your legacy map, right? You were talking about that assignment and how that impacts, but you just kinda never know. I mean, I'm I'm like you in the sense of I went through a diploma program and worked my way up. I never thought I would have my D P and be in this part. So you just you the the education gives you that opportunity and those future direction for yourself. So we we you know, you can always apply and come on.
Caitlin Billman: Thank you. Yeah, I think it's nursing is such a broad, you know, field and so there's so much that you can you can do with it and kind of the whole reason behind this podcast is to explore the different, you know, different kinds of jobs you can it's more than just bedside nursing.
Ayana Brown: Mm-hmm.
Karen Weeks: Can I just throw I just wanna circle back 'cause one of the key things is about you have your ADN and then the the bachelor's. And you know that there's lots of talk out there with the ADN nurse and the BSN nurse take the same N CLEX exam for licensure. Can you maybe describe a little bit 'cause some students that I hear from are like, I don't wanna do papers, you know, it's a lot of writing in this. Can you describe maybe how these inside assignments and how these things really impacted you and how you gained some of those skills that you applied at the bedside. And you know, you talked a little bit about evidence-based practice, which I loved, and how did that impact you and how did you look at quality and improvement and some of that leadership that you learned in this particular program versus your ADN.
Ayana Brown: I would say it helped me to even better educate family because they don't really know what's going on. And you can do all the tasks and all the different you can hang medications, do this and that, but what is this medication? What does it mean? What's it gonna do to me? What are the risks, what are the side effects? And yeah, you learn that in the associate's degree. But on the bigger scale with the bachelors, there's just so much more education that's just not with the papers and the discussion boards, but While you're doing that, learning yourself, like not just to get a paper done, not just to get a discussion board done, but how can I use this to help me to help the others, to help the families, to help the patient, to help another nurse if I have to be a preceptor, because they're trying to learn from you and I think the BSN helps you get that exercise. education to then now teach someone else. And so I I've ended up in preceptor roles, resource nurse, charge nurse. And if I didn't have that education, how would I then be able to teach them well? And for them to be a better nurse and then now they can teach someone else well. So I just think having that education really allowed me to just dig a little deeper and not just okay I'm just getting the BSN but Why is this important, not only for me, but for the patients, the families, the people that I'm serving, even sometimes the doctors. Th I mean, you know, just being educated to say this is why we're doing one thing and why we shouldn't do something else. And so I would say to look at it not just, you're just doing this the papers or the discussion, how can you really embrace this to learn for yourself? 'Cause we don't know everything, you know. I think getting a b a bachelor's is notable because you've put yourself in this position to keep learning. You didn't just stop, you know, it's easy. It's easy to stop. It's harder to keep going, even when it's hard. But I would say, you know, it's not just for you. It's for everybody around you, even your parents, your grandparents, in your family. You can educate them, you know, and having that education I think just makes all the difference. Does that answer? yes. Okay. I appreciate that.
Caitlin Billman: Well, as we kind of wrap up a little bit, I always like to kind of end with whatever kind of message you want to give. So if you could summarize the value of earning a BSN from JMU in one message to current ADN nurses, kind of what would that message be?
Ayana Brown: I would say I would just say don't lose hope. Don't lose faith because if it's meant for you, it's gonna happen, but you have to do the work. And you have to know that, you know, everything happens for a reason. You know, if you're struggling in one season or one semester, just know it's not gonna last. and just continue to persevere through it. And I would say having the support around you, whether that's your teachers or your classmates, your family, letting them know how if you're struggling, how they can support you, how they can help you, and then allowing them to just encourage you and to keep you moving forward. And so I would say, to those students who are seeking, you know, they have the R R and and trying to finish their BN V S N or get their B S N to just stay the course. because life just trying to get your BSN that's a small portion of the things you're gonna go through in your life. And so if that's something you can get over one hurdle, is it gonna be another hurdle. And so you just have to keep pushing through and it's building your character, it's building you to be who you need to be, not only for yourself but the people around you. And I think that's that makes all the difference. So
Caitlin Billman: Awesome. Well, Ayana, thank you so much. And Karen, thank you so much for being part of this conversation. I really enjoyed it, and I hope you guys did too.
Ayana Brown: Thank you. No, I I thank you for taking the time to talk with me. This has been a really long journey for me. to come back here is really a full circle moment. Sorry.
Caitlin Billman: It's okay.
Ayana Brown: it was a very difficult journey for me to get here. like I said before getting deferred from JMU, not being able to get into the traditional program, having the option to even do the R and the B S N program. I'm even grateful that that was another option. Not all schools maybe offer that. That's something to think about too. If you're not able to do the traditional way, what schools do offer the R and the B S N program and what would be able to support me through that process, especially if I'm out of state or, you know, it's every Everything's remote, where can I still get that support? And so to go through all of this and to come back here and to be able to share my journey and my testimony has really been special and I'm just really grateful and blessed to be here. So thank you. So I'm happy to have you. Thank
Caitlin Billman: Thank you for joining us for this episode of Practice Made Purpose. Ayana's journey shows how nursing can become a lifelong calling, one shaped by compassion, perseverance, and the desire to make care safer and more supportive for patients and families. If you enjoyed today's conversation, be sure to follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. And if you're a JMU nursing alum with a story to share, or you know someone who is, I'd love to hear from you. You'll find ways to connect with us in the episode description. Every nurse has a story. Thanks for listening to this one today. See you next time.
