As you may know I am passionate about my research and always searching for innovative ways to reach the people. It is important that my research work is impactful and helps increase knowledge and awareness. I encourage people to seek help, speak up, ask questions, and self advocate when seeking healthcare and during health care provider interactions.
I co-edited a book publication “Rural and Other Medically Underserved Populations” to focus on health care issues and clinical implications. I sincerely believe home should always be our first priority, thus my home state is where I started and continue to work even though my work has expanded to national and international opportunities. I certainly appreciate and know the importance of these expansive opportunities and the additional impact. As a fellow in the American Academy of Nursing and a leadership team member in the African Caribbean Cancer Consortium (AC3), I travel and interact with colleagues and communities all over the nation and the world. However, I always make sure people know that I am from Alabama and proudly represent my state, my university, The University of Alabama, and my college, the Capstone College of Nursing, where I been employed as a faculty member for over 22 years. I have had the privilege of teaching and facilitating the learning of thousands of students. Also, I have had the opportunity to meet people in mostly every county in Alabama during my community engagements. I have been fortunate to serve and develop many friendships and collaborations in my role as board member and president of Susan G. Komen of North Central Alabama, chairing the Early Detection Committee within the Alabama Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition and helping to develop the 2022-2027 Statewide Plan, an action plan to reduce the burden of cancer in Alabama. My work and collaborations resulted in my appointment by the honorable Governor Kay Ivey to the Alabama United Health Committee, which focused on addressing health issues, particularly those affecting rural and underserved communities. These are only a few examples of the opportunities I have had to represent my state and make a difference in the communities I serve, all of which makes me feel extremely grateful and overwhelmingly blessed.
In my newly appointed role as the Capstone College of Nursing Endowed Chair I will continue to work at what I recognize as my life’s purpose, helping others. My work includes students, faculty, staff, community members, leaders, and others who are interested and invested in improving the health and well-being of our state and nation. I hope you will join me as I continue my journey in this new role and explore the potential for new levels of impact on our communities health.
With unwavering faith and sincere gratitude,
Dr. JoAnn Simon Oliver