Dr. Keisha Brooks, Dean at Galen College of Nursing’s Wichita campus, was recognized by the Wichita Black Nurses Association (WBNA) on October 24^th for her professionalism and excellence in nursing, honoring a career spanning nursing leadership, education, and mentorship. 

For Brooks, the recognition reflects not only her professional accomplishments but also a personal journey of growth. 

“This recognition is deeply meaningful to me because when I look back over my journey, I know I’ve come a mighty long way. I was once a single mom living with Lupus, trying to navigate life and figure out what my future would look like. Nursing gave me an opportunity to find my purpose and build a career that ultimately led me into education and leadership,” she said. “This recognition reminds me that I now have the opportunity and responsibility to reach back, open doors, and help others see possibilities for themselves that they may not yet see.” 

As a dean, Keisha hopes her experiences help students envision what is possible for their own futures. 

“More than anything, I hope they see what is possible. I want students to know that where you start does not have to determine where you finish,” said Brooks. “There are so many paths within nursing, from bedside practice and education to advanced practice, research, administration, and leadership. I hope they see someone who kept growing, stayed connected to her purpose, and was willing to help others along the way.” 

For Brooks, advancing the nursing profession means more than achieving personal success. It also means helping create opportunities for those who come next. She recognizes the importance of representation and mentorship, particularly for African American nurses and nursing students navigating their educational and professional journeys. 

“Representation matters because seeing someone who looks like you succeeding can change what you believe is possible for yourself. But representation alone isn’t enough,” she said. “Mentorship provides the guidance, encouragement, and connection that can help someone actually get there. For me, it’s important that we not only get into these spaces but also make the path a little easier for the people coming behind us.” 

As part of the WBNA’s scholarship initiative, deans are being invited to select two students to receive scholarships at the gala. When considering the students she selected, Keisha looked beyond academic achievement to recognize perseverance and potential. 

“I started by identifying African American students who had made the Dean’s List or President’s List, because I wanted to recognize students who had demonstrated academic excellence. But it wasn’t just about grades,” she said. “I also considered their perseverance, their passion for nursing, and the potential I saw in them to make an impact in the profession. Nursing school takes commitment and resilience, and I wanted to recognize students who reflected those qualities. When we provide a scholarship, we aren’t just recognizing what a student has already accomplished. We’re investing in what they have the potential to become.” 

Her recognition by the WBNA celebrates a career shaped by perseverance, leadership, and service. As she continues to lead and support future nurses, Brooks embodies the value of using personal experience and professional achievement to help others see what is possible for themselves.