To Whom It May Concern: I am so thankful for the mentorship of Dr. Shiela Ford. At a time when I was unsure of what career path to take, Dr Ford stepped in to provide valuable advice. I’m so glad that I listened to Dr. Ford.  She has encouraged and guided me throughout my entire nursing career. From becoming a CNA, to LVN, to achieving my RN-BSN degree, she has motivated me to keep going and not to settle for less. Becoming a nurse has provided me with the foundation to pursue other entrepreneurial interests as well. Dr. Ford has so much wisdom and is committed to excellence! She is truly an inspiration. I’m so thankful to have someone like her in my life and I am looking forward to witnessing what God is going to do through her life next.

Amanda Franks  B.A in Sociology Minor in Business Administration  Associate’s Degree Nursing - RN Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Professor Shiela Ford, now known as Doctor Shiela Ford, has impacted my life in many ways. Looking at her title is one way. She has taught me how to keep going through many storms and to never give up. I remember in nursing school I was so disappointed because I failed my HESI exam, which was an exit exam needed to pass the course. After the many days of sitting in class and many nights of studying for exams, I was right there at the finish line. I wondered how could something so devastating happen to me at a moment like this in my life. All I wanted was to provide for my family and give my 4 children at the time, a better future. Doctor Ford called me into her office for a meeting. She greeted me with the most beautiful smile, which was one of the things I have always loved about her. No matter how hard each day got for her, she taught her students how to smile our way through. In this meeting she taught me ways to be successful. The first thing she asked was do I believe in me. I had to ask myself that question because I never really thought about that. She taught me how I had to believe in myself and know for myself that I am a smart, intelligent, and a beautiful young lady. If I want something to go and get it, and that nothing hard comes easy to an achiever. I thought about that as I cried my way out the door and all night at home. I prayed and asked myself one more time that question aloud. I then smiled and picked my head up high. I said I have children I want to see me succeed and follow my footsteps. How can I teach them to be successful yet see myself as a failure? There was no way! I then began to study harder each day, all while taking care of my family and working two jobs. I was determined and was not going to let anyone, or anything, stop me. When it was time to take that exam the following year I passed with flying colors. Doctor Ford pulled me into her office once again with that big, beautiful smile, but this time I met her at the door with that same smile and my head held high. She asked what I did differently? I said I watched you through this entire program for a year and saw how you fought through storms, tears, and so many battles, but yet everyday you came in with a smile and your head held high. The world never knew your pain. When you pulled me into this office last year and asked me the question of do I believe in myself and am I a failure, I quickly pulled myself together after weeping all that week. That was what many people had told me all my life and after having a baby at 15, that I would be like my parents and on the streets somewhere. I said I refused and after hearing those words from someone who never knew me, I knew that it was time to show the world who I really was. Doctor Shiela Ford, you brought out my dream of one day reaching my goals and going even beyond that. I started off with you receiving my RN. I kept going and received my BSN, MSN, and now I am dual certified as a Family and Psychiatric NP. I give all praises to The Most High first off for working in and through you. I am so grateful to have met someone like you. You have touched not only mine, but the lives of so many other students throughout your career. It shows as they continue to keep in contact with you and tell their many stories of what they have accomplished since they crossed your path. Thank you for your obedience and guidance throughout my career and life. You are definitely one of a kind and unforgettable.

Emmalita Hall, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C

My name is Shirley Higgins and I had the pleasure of having Dr. Ford as my nursing professor during vocational nursing school and also during the Associate Degree of Nursing program. During this time period Dr. Ford inspired me to continue my journey in nursing, which has led me to my current certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Dr. Ford was compassionate about nursing and instilled in me what it takes to become a good, prudent nurse. Not only did Dr. Ford motivate me during school, she also encouraged me and helped me during some difficult times in my personal life. She prayed with me and encouraged me not to give up and to keep on going. I often tell others about Dr. Ford and how she’s the reason that I didn’t give up and continued my nursing journey. I can say that there are definitely things Dr. Ford taught me that have been with me since I completed school. Dr. Ford often used a metaphor “Repetition Breeds Learning”. I still use this today to help me learn new things in medicine. Dr. Ford was a great professor and I think she was placed in my path during the right time. I thank her tremendously for helping me become the nurse I am today.

Shirley Higgins, MSN, RN, APRN, FNP-C

To whom this may concern, Dr. Shiela Ford is the epitome of class and grace. There is something to be said about a woman who can see through a person’s shortcomings and provide a safe space for growth and opportunity. I have had the privilege to be mentored by Dr. Ford. Her mentorship provides a level of care, accountability, and wisdom that is unmatched. Her guidance not only helped me professionally, but personally and spiritually as well. She leads by example in everything she does, making it easy to accept constructive criticism and advice, no matter how difficult the situation may be, Dr. Ford tirelessly offers her knowledge, experience, and support to ensure your individual goals and dreams become something tangible and beneficial. Her desire to see people’s lives changed and transformed is what sets her apart from all the rest. My life and mindset has been forever changed due to the kindness and compassion she brings to every interaction, every day. Thank you Dr. Ford, for taking the time to see me, work with me, and leaving me with the lifelong impact of your excellence and sacrifice. I will continue to carry this information with me everywhere I go.

Jasmine Cherry, Mentee

Dr. Shiela Ford is an inspiration to many, I am honored and privileged to be inspired by her. She is a prime example of a woman who lets God lead her life and how she interacts with others. Observing and interacting with Dr. Ford has encouraged me to pursue a life that is focused on Christ and continue my education, no matter how hard the course or subject may be. She has encouraged me to chase after my dreams no matter how long it takes to accomplish them because God's timing is always perfect. I have watched Dr. Ford over the years encourage others to push thru adversities, situations, and circumstances while she may have been dealing with her own battles. On a personal level she is my friend and my sister and I can't thank her enough for the beautiful smile, caring and nurturing heart and big hugs of encouragement. Dr. Ford has made a lasting positive impact on my life and I truly thank her for just being her.

Monica Gaines, LVN