CFBNA Past and Present Presidents (l to r) Eloise Abrahams, Ingrid Philpott, Juanita Green, Monica Akins (Newly Elected), Lois Wilson, Connie Brown, and Dr. Jennifer Sankey-Battles
Co-Founders with the current President (l to r) Susie Forehand, co –founder, Monica Akins, newly elected President CFBNA, and Bernice Edwards, co-founder
BY DR. JUNE ROBINSON, RN
ORLANDO – On Sunday December 10, 2023, the Central Florida Black Nurses Association of Orlando, Inc. (CFBNA) enjoyed a Christmas celebration after installation of 2024 officers. The celebration was held at the Fairview Grande Condominium Clubhouse on North Orange Blossom Trail from 5 – 8PM. Over 60 members, Advisory Board members, family and friends came together to complete business and celebrate a joyous holiday season together supporting one another and having fun.
Our first order of business was installation of 2024 officers. Mrs. Connie Brown, National Black Nurses Association, Immediate Past Board Member, was the presiding officer for the ceremony. The oath of office was given by co-founders Bernice Edwards and Susie Forehand and past CFBNA presidents Connie Brown, Juanita Green and Ingrid Philpott. The new officers are the following – President – Monica Akins, RN; Second Vice President – Dr. Monique Farrington, RN; Secretary – Dr. Monica Debro, RN; Board Member – Mia Jenkins, RN; Board Member – Margaret Refour, RN; Immediate Past President – Dr. Jennifer Sankey-Battles, RN
As the past officers passed the baton to the new officers, it is certain that the future progress of CFBNA is in capable hands. Our organization now has 11 lifetime members, which means that they have committed (by payment of special dues) to working with CFBNA for their entire lives. That, indeed, demonstrates dedication to our association’s mission.
Once the installation was completed everyone enjoyed Christmas games, Karaoke, and gift exchange. We also identified 4 families to receive Christmas baskets filled with non-perishable foods along with Publix gift cards. Two families were chosen from Ivey Lane Elementary School and two families from Jones High School. The baskets were delivered last week.
The Christmas spirit of giving and camaraderie was celebrated with much festivity and love for one another. We look forward to the new year and, as always, working in the community to help bring health education, health services and health equity to those in the underserved communities.
Please visit our website at cfbnaoforlando.org to learn more about our organization. There you can download a membership form, join and begin your journey of service to our community and grow your leadership skills. You may also call our number at 407-476-6862 and leave a message. Your call will be answered in 24-48 hours. We invite all registered nurses, licensed practical nurses to join our organization.
