About GRBNA
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Our History
The Grand Rapids Black Nurses Association (GRBNA) was established in 1998 and chartered in 1999 under the leadership of Joyce Durr, Denise Turner, and Sharon Zinnali. GRBNA was formed to meet the need for structure, organization, stronger community connections, and broader professional networks within the Black community. The vision for GRBNA began when Joyce Durr attended the annual conference of the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA). She recognized that the Grand Rapids community would benefit from an organized group of nurses dedicated to promoting health education, advocacy, and community wellness. As a chapter of the National Black Nurses Association, GRBNA carries out the national mission locally by providing a forum for collective action among Black nurses and advocating for strategies that promote access to the highest quality healthcare for persons of color. GRBNA uses education as a key strategy to fulfill this mission. Through partnerships with local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders, GRBNA provides health and wellness seminars, workshops, resources, scholarships, mentorship, and educational programs that help address healthcare disparities in communities of color. Our membership includes Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, nursing students, and healthcare professionals with diverse educational backgrounds and areas of expertise. Together, we promote professionalism and provide resources that help individuals and families pursue their health, education, and career goals. The Body You Save May Be Your Own. |