About Us
Janice M. Johnson, BSN, RN-BC
Message From The President
The Black Nurses Association of Greater Washington, DC Area (BNA-GWDCA) has been a leader in advancing health equity and empowering Black nurses for over 45 years. Our mission is to improve healthcare access, advocate for underserved communities, and support future generations of Black nurses through mentorship and scholarships.
In these critical times, we are witnessing significant health disparities, especially in communities of color. High blood pressure, diabetes, and preventable diseases continue to affect our communities at alarming rates. At BNA-GWDCA, we believe in action over words, and that’s why we’re in the community providing free health screenings, including blood pressure checks, organizing donations of hygiene products, coats, and winter clothing for students in Southeast DC, and distributing blankets to unhoused individuals.
Beyond direct community outreach, we also invest in the future of nursing through scholarships, mentorship programs, and leadership training for Black nurses. We believe that a strong and supported nursing workforce leads to healthier communities.
Please donate, sign up for our newsletter, and stay connected with us.
Together, we can continue to make a difference.
Stay connected with us at bnaofgwdca.org or email contactus@bnaofgwdca.org.
Thank you,
Janice M. Johnson, BSN, RN, RN-BC
Meet The Officers
Vice President: Lauren Mouling, RN, BSN
Treasurer: Madlyn Belcher, BSN, RN
Financial Secretary: Mourine Evans, MS, RN
Recording Secretary: Jaden Petrus, BSN, RN
Corresponding Secretary: Deanne Givens-McGrier, RN, MSN/MHA
Parliamentarian: Cheryl Durden, MS, RN, CPM, LSSGB
Member at Large: Margaret Green, LPN
A group of Black Nurses attending the 47th American Nurses’ Association Convention in 1970 held a caucus to discuss common concerns. A steering committee met in 1971 in Cleveland, Ohio and organized to investigate, define, and determine the needs of Black Americans and to implement changes in health care. The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) was incorporated and obtained tax-exempt status in 1972.
Our goals include support for the development of a cadre of ethnic nurses reflecting the nation’s diversity; advocacy for culturally competent, accessible and affordable health care; promotion of the professional and educational advancement of ethnic nurses; education of consumers, health care professionals and policy.
Our mission is “to serve as the voice for Black nurses and diverse populations ensuring equal access to professional development, promoting educational opportunities and improving health.”
