The National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) Michigan Chapter has been recognized for its outstanding work in advancing equity for underserved communities in Southeast Michigan. Through impactful programs and partnerships, the chapter continues to address social determinants of health while improving access to care and inspiring meaningful change.

The NAHN Michigan Chapter’s tireless efforts to secure funding and implement community-based initiatives have directly advanced health equity and fostered lasting impact throughout the region.

Community Impact:
From 2023–2025, community health initiatives have expanded wellness education, mental health crisis training, and organ donation awareness across schools, campuses, parishes, and community settings. These efforts include bilingual outreach, cancer screening programs, and targeted health workshops reaching diverse populations in Detroit, Oak Park, Waterford, and Pontiac.

Awards and Scholarships:

Established an annual scholarship of $1,000 for four recipients to support nursing students.

Organized successful fundraising events such as the Día de los Muertos Fitness Challenge and the NAHN-MI Gala, raising funds for scholarships and promoting nursing among Latino school children.

Kim Holka (President-Elect, 2024–2026): Recipient of the 2024 Oakland University Community Engagement Award for her work in community partnerships and health equity; 2025 recipient of the Oakland University School of Nursing Dean’s Faculty Excellence Award.

Josie Foley (President, 2010–2014): Recipient of the NAHNStrong 2024 Award for her dedication to advancing the NAHN mission.

Julie Kruse (Active Member): Inducted into FAAN (2025); recipient of the Oakland University Faculty Excellence Award for DEI (2023) and the Nightingale Award (2022).

Teresa Chahine (President, 2024–2026): Recipient of the NAHN 2025 Janie Menchaca Wilson Leadership Award and the Shadow of Influence Award for Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan.

Chapter Accomplishments

The White House Challenge Fuel2Flourish Grant funded a three-day workshop for 98 elementary students, teaching healthy eating, emotional awareness, and resilience. The program also offered hands-on activities to spark early interest in healthcare careers, particularly nursing.

Partnership with the Gary Burnstein Clinic (Pontiac): Provides free medical and dental services for uninsured and low-income individuals, with NAHN members actively supporting community health initiatives to expand access to care.

Collaboration with Oakland University’s ASPIRE Nursing Workforce Diversity Program: Supports underrepresented nursing students through mentorship, scholarships, professional development, and volunteer opportunities. This includes access to HRSA nursing scholarships of approximately $5,000 per eligible student, reinforcing the chapter’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in the nursing workforce.

Partnership with the Pontiac Academy for Excellence: Offers health and wellness education, mentorship, and early exposure to healthcare careers, empowering students to pursue opportunities in the field and build lifelong healthy habits.

Community Partner Nomination

“The NAHN Michigan Chapter’s tireless work to secure funding and implement impactful programs has directly improved health equity and inspired meaningful change in diverse communities. They exemplify dedication and innovation, making them highly deserving of this recognition.”