Pathways, Purpose & Power: NAHSE Memphis General Body Meeting

In February, our university proudly partnered with NAHSE Memphis, a chapter of the National Association of Health Services Executives, to host the annual Pathways, Purpose & Power: NAHSE Memphis General Body Meeting. 

NAHSE is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing leadership development for Black health executives and fostering high-quality healthcare for minority and underserved communities. The Memphis chapter continues that mission locally by creating meaningful opportunities for connection, mentorship, and professional growth across the Mid-South. 

The General Body Meeting serves as a cornerstone event each year — setting the chapter’s agenda, strengthening professional networks, and introducing students and prospective members to NAHSE’s mission and impact. This year’s featured speaker was Chapter President Brea Bowers, IT Education Specialist at Regional One Health. Bowers shared insights on leadership, career pathways, and the responsibility healthcare professionals have to serve their communities with excellence and purpose. 

Strengthening Student Pathways 

Our partnership with NAHSE Memphis continues to create tangible opportunities for students in health care administration and public health programs. 

Briana Jegier, PhD, Professor and Chair, Health Administration and Public Health, shared that “this connection is important for our students as they can network with executives and leaders from across the Mid-South and learn first-hand from those who have been in their shoes what it takes to achieve their career goals. Many ongoing mentorship relationships have been formed at this meeting, and many continue once students become alumni.” 

A Student Perspective 

Bonita Jackson, a public health student in attendance, described the event as both empowering and inspiring.  

“As a public health student and prospective member, I was encouraged to see how dedicated the organization is to supporting Black health executives and helping students through mentorship, scholarships, and leadership opportunities. Having the opportunity to network with professionals and executives after the meeting made a strong impression on me and reminded me of the importance of representation and community in healthcare leadership. I am very grateful for the chance to attend and learn from such an influential organization.”  

Connecting Faculty and Practitioners 

Our partnership with NAHSE Memphis also fosters connections between faculty and practitioners, which enhances classroom experiences and connections for students in health care administration and public health programs. 

Dr. Jegier added, “The event not only benefits students through networking and mentorship but also strengthens faculty engagement with current healthcare leaders — ensuring academic programs remain aligned with the evolving needs of today’s health systems.” 

Through continued collaboration with NAHSE Memphis, our university remains committed to preparing students not only for careers in healthcare, but for leadership roles that advance excellence and service in communities that need it most.