Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Akins.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In 2001, I completed a dual program for nursing assistant and home health aide from North Florida Community College (NFCC). Worked in skilled nursing facility, behavioral health, and home health while pursuing bachelor’s in nursing (BSN) degree at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). Completed BSN in 2008.
Work history as registered nurse includes medical-telemetry, home health, observation, progressive care unit(PCU), post anesthesia care unit (PACU), COVID units, outpatient surgery, inpatient and outpatient behavioral health, and currently ambulatory nursing. In 2014, I worked as clinical nurse manager at Tallahassee Behavioral Health Unit. In 2015, I relocated to Orlando, FL and began working at Orlando Health. Worked at Orlando Regional Medical Center (Orlando, FL) and Southlake Hospital (Clermont, FL) for combined five years. Then worked as a travel nurse at Capital Regional Medical Center (Tallahassee, FL), Tampa General Hospital (Tampa, FL), and Piedmont Atlanta Hospital (Atlanta, GA). In April 2023, returned to Orlando Health at the Health Central location (Ocoee, FL).
In 2016, I joined Central Florida Black Nurses Association of Orlando, Inc. (CFBNA). Since joining CFBNA I have served as several committee chairpersons including Under 40, Publicity and Public Relations, and Health Policy. I have also served on the board of directors as Secretary, 2nd Vice-President, 1st-Vice President, and currently President.
Additionally, I hold two lifetime memberships: National Black Nursing Association (NBNA) and FAMU National Alumni Association (FAMU NAA). I am also a member of the Nu Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc. in which I serve on the Medical Response Team (MRT). I also serve as the health ministry leader at Heart of Mercy Community Church.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There were several setbacks during the educational pathway. After completing the home health course, I enrolled in the NFCC Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program. However, I was not able to complete and had to withdraw from the program. Additionally, I had to repeat the stastics class while attending FAMU. Once I completed the prerequisites at FAMU, I was not selected for the nursing program on my first attempt. I took additional electives then reapplied. I was selected on my second attempt into the program. While in the program, I did not pass a course and had to take re-take the course and additioanl electives.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I currently work for Orlando Health Heart and Vascular Institute at Health Central in Ocoee, FL. My role is primary nurse in ambulatory cardiac care setting. I currently serve on the Nurse Practice Council. I am most proud of being known within the office for team building. Every month, I co-lead a team to celebrate team members birthdays, work anniversaries, and graduations. The celebration has helped to build unity amongst the three departments in the office.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up I was very shy and quiet. I have always been interested in photography and helping others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cfbnaoforlando.org
