The Brooklyn-based Trinidad and Tobago Nurses Association of America, Inc. (TTNAA) on Sept. 14, honored retired Registered Nurse Barbara Guevarra-Francis during its 57th Anniversary Gala Luncheon and 33rd Scholarship Grant Award Ceremony at Russo’s on the Bay in the Howard Beach section of Queens.

TTNAA also presented its Scholarship Grant Award to Trinidadian native and Brooklyn resident Ester Bowen, who’s currently pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing degree at Brooklyn’s Medgar Evers College, City University of New York (CUNY). 

In addition, the organization presented a plaque to Trinidad and Tobago Consul General to New York Andre Laveau and received a proclamation from Mayor Eric Adams. Barbadian Lamona Knight, assistant commissioner and senior community advisor, Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs, presented the proclamation on behalf of the mayor. 

Laveau and New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams briefly addressed the ceremony; Trinidadian nursing educator Dr. Hazel Mary Sanderson Marcoux, RN, delivered the keynote address on “Building Legacy”; and the family of Lucille Nicholson, a past TTNAA president, presented an undisclosed financial award to TTNAA.

“I’m overwhelmed! Today I am both humbled and elated to be recognized by my colleagues and friends of this auspicious organization, whose very shoulders supported me along the way,” Guevarra-Francis said in receiving the honor. “Thank you, Emerald, Jocelyn, Joan and Dr. Jean Leon, who always helped me return on track each time I fell off, and Sylma Nelson, a founding member, who explained to me, ‘As a dolphin, you have to learn to swim with the sharks.’ And there were often plenty of sharks.

“To the group from Helene Fuld College of Nursing, thank you for rallying around me,” she added. “Michelle, you always had my back, especially when I literally threw my cellphone to you because it started ringing while we were in class, and I didn’t know how to turn it off. It was a new smart phone; and I had only been used to my flip phone. 

“A very special thank you to Prof. Ali, who scraped together every 1/10, 1/8, 1/3, 1/4 and 1/2 of a point to get me through statistics,” Guevarra-Francis continued. “I am very appreciative of this honor. I thank my family for their love and support. Thank you all and may God bless you.”

TTNAA said that Guevarra-Francis has been “a devoted member” since 1972, serving with “heart and humility” in roles such as recording secretary, vice president, and co-chair and chair of the Education and Social Action Committees. Currently, she serves as chaplain.

“Barbara brings a spirit of faith and compassion to everything she does,” it said. “Her leadership has always been rooted in a deep desire to uplift others and create spaces where people feel seen, supported and empowered.”

TTNAA said that, throughout her career, Guevarra-Francis has “worn many hats” — staff nurse, occupational health nurse, visiting nurse, and educator. 

The group said she has taught at Lehman College, Hostos College, and EOC Westchester, and was “guided by the belief that education is a powerful tool for transformation. 

“Her greatest joy has been witnessing her students’ breakthroughs — the ‘aha moments’ that signal growth, confidence and purpose,” it said. 

Beyond the classroom, TTNAA said Guevarra-Francis has been “a fierce advocate for environmental justice, leading a successful community effort to preserve Seton Fall Park in the Bronx, protecting its natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations. 

“Now retired, Barbara remains deeply engaged in her community, serving on the local board and precinct council and participating actively in her church,” it said, adding that Guevarra-Francis is “a woman of unwavering faith,” who “continues to live by the values of perseverance, justice and service.”

TTNAA said that Bowen had moved to Grenada at 19 “in pursuit of personal growth and opportunity,” and migrated to the US in 2005 with her son, where she “embraced the challenges of starting over in a new country.”

The group said Bowen worked in New York, Washington, D.C. and Maryland “in roles that allowed her to care for children, adults with special needs and families in transitional settings. 

“Balancing work and education, she remained focused on building a better future for herself and son, driven by resilience and a desire to serve others,” it said.   

TTNAA President Dr. Cynthia Sterling-Fox, Ph. D, FNP-C, RN, said the event was “a testament to our collective dedication, hard work, and the shared vision that drives us forward.

“First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you,” she said. “Your unwavering commitment and contributions have been the cornerstone of our success. 

“Whether you are a long-standing member or a new addition to our family, your presence here today signifies the strength and unity of our community,” added Dr. Sterling-Fox, stating that, “this year has been remarkable in many ways.”

She said TTNAA has “achieved significant milestones, overcome challenges, and continued to innovate and excel in our endeavors.  

“Our accomplishments are a reflection of the passion and determination that each of you brings to the table,” Dr. Sterling-Fox said. “As we gather here today, let us take a moment to celebrate our achievements and recognize the efforts of those who have gone above and beyond. Your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Sterling-Fox said TTNAA has “exciting opportunities on the horizon. 

“Our vision for the future is bold and ambitious, and I am confident that, with your continued support and collaboration, we will reach new heights,” she said. “Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead with the same enthusiasm and determination that have brought us this far.

“Together, we will continue to build a brighter and more prosperous future for The Trinidad and Tobago Nurses of America, Inc.,” Dr. Sterling-Fox added.