On August 16, 2025 at the Annual SDBNA Scholarship Luncheon, Dr. Alston was announced as the 2025 SDBNA Nurse of the Year. Dr. Alston completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and went on to earn her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2008. Shortly thereafter, she became certified as an Adult Nurse Practitioner (NP), gaining extensive experience—particularly with geriatric patients—in hospice and palliative care, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care settings. Most recently, Denise applied her expertise in clinical research, contributing to the testing of vaccines that aided in the fight against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, as well as medications for chronic conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, asthma, diabetes, and obesity. Dr. Alston has held numerous leadership positions within SDBNA and currently serves as Financial Secretary as well as Bylaws Committee Chair.
Response from Dr. Alston:
August 17, 2025
I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the committee and organization for recognizing me as Nurse of the Year. This honor means the world to me. There was so much I wish I had said yesterday, and I want to take this opportunity to express my thoughts now.
When I met SDBNA members Ms. Syvera Hardy and Ms. Frankie Yarbrough back in 2013, I eagerly embraced the chance to connect with other African Americans, African American nurses, and others wishing to improvethe lives of others. It has been a joy to meet and work with so many dedicated, successful, motivated, and inspiring nurses and associates of all ages and backgrounds. I have had the privilege of meeting individuals who not only excel in their daily jobs but also drive decisions and actions within their careers, while committing to improving the community through the vision and mission of SDBNA.
I am so grateful for the chance to work with so many amazing women and men under the leadership of four different presidents and counting.
Again, my sincerest appreciation for this wonderful honor. I promise to continue to assist with meeting SDBNA’s goals and remaining steadfast in this ever-changing environment.
Sincerely,
Denise Alston, DNP, RN, APRN, ANP-BC