By james art 
Hospice of the Chesapeake Director of Advocacy and Legislative Affairs Rachel Jordan was honored by DNPs of Color with the Dr. Virginia Allen Award for Outstanding Distinguished Service to Humanity in the Practice of Nursing. She received the award at the Dr. Virginia Allen and Mary Eliza Mahoney Scholarship and Awards Gala held Oct. 19 at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.
Jordan was celebrated along with other outstanding individuals from across the country who have dedicated themselves to advancing nursing practice and healthcare equity while celebrating creativity and leadership in our community.
In his letter of recommendation to the organization, Prince George’s County Council Vice President and District 9 Councilman Sidney Harrison wrote, “The relationship it has built with the community and outside organizations is commendable. Her selfless service demonstrates a will to positively influence and inspire those around her to achieve their goals. As an advisor, I look for community leaders who believe in achieving quality outcomes, and it brings me joy to know that nurses like Dr. Jordan are sharing their knowledge and expertise so others can thrive.”
The award Jordan received is named after a woman who was among a group of black nurses who cared for tuberculosis patients at Sea View Hospital in New York when few nurses would. Known as the Black Angels, their commitment to caring for these patients was undoubtedly an important part of the journey to finding a cure.
“To receive this award that honors such a remarkable woman is huge,” Jordan said. “I strive to be the good professional who is so committed to equity in health care and the highest standards in nursing. Dr. Allen is an inspiration to black women like me in the medical field and in the community.”
