For Chawntia Johnson, nursing is more than a profession — it is a calling rooted in compassion, resilience, and purpose. As a Nursing Education Specialist for Perioperative Services, Chawntia has dedicated nearly a decade to caring for others while also empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals. Yet beyond her professional title lies a woman whose journey has been shaped by faith, perseverance, community, and an unwavering commitment to service.
With ten years in nursing and over two years in her current leadership role, Chawntia has experienced both the rewards and challenges that come with a demanding career. Like many women striving for excellence in every area of life, she openly admits that balancing personal well-being with professional aspirations has not always come easily.
“As a person that strives for greatness in all areas, I recently found myself burnt out,” she shares honestly. “I had to step back and reflect.”
That season of reflection became a turning point. Through prayer, journaling, and conversations with her mother, Chawntia began reconnecting with herself and learning an important lesson: not every gift has to be activated at the same time. She discovered the power of setting boundaries and saying no — both personally and professionally — so she could focus on what truly matters and where she could make the greatest impact.
Her story is one marked by achievement and heart-centered leadership. Among her proudest accomplishments are founding the Jackie Louise Memorial Scholarship in 2016 and helping establish the nonprofit organization Healthy & Holistic in 2022. Both initiatives reflect her deep desire to uplift and serve others. In 2025, she also completed her Master’s Degree in Nursing Education, further strengthening her ability to educate and inspire within the healthcare field.
But behind every accomplishment is a story of resilience.
During her first semester of nursing school in 2014, Chawntia experienced one of the greatest losses of her life when her grandmother passed away. Navigating grief while pursuing an intense academic program tested her emotionally and mentally. Yet through that difficult season, she learned the importance of focus, determination, and inner strength.
“That tough time molded me into the person I am today,” she reflects.
Equally impactful during that season was the power of sisterhood. Chawntia credits the community she built during nursing school as one of the greatest blessings in her life. Her friends surrounded her with love, support, prayer, laughter, and encouragement when she needed it most.
“Nursing school can be very difficult,” she says. “If I did not have my group of friends that prayed with me, studied with me, and laughed with me, I do not think I would have made it through that season of life.”
Mentorship has also played a defining role in her personal and professional development. Personally, Chawntia says her mother has been her greatest mentor — encouraging her to walk boldly in her calling and embrace who she is unapologetically. Professionally, she remains grateful for the preceptors and mentors she met throughout her nursing career who continue to pour wisdom and guidance into her life even today.
As someone who understands both the positive and negative effects of modern influence, Chawntia also speaks thoughtfully about social media and women’s empowerment. While she recognizes how easily people can compare themselves to unrealistic portrayals online, she chooses to intentionally curate her digital space with uplifting and inspirational content.
“I control my algorithm,” she explains. “What I like finds me.”
When it comes to self-care, Chawntia admits she is still learning. However, she has begun prioritizing practices that help her maintain peace and balance, including monthly massages, earlier bedtimes, and limiting phone calls after 8:30 p.m. to quiet her mind before rest.
“As a thinker, it can be hard to shut my brain down,” she says.
At the core of everything Chawntia does is her desire to leave a meaningful legacy. More than titles or accomplishments, she hopes future generations remember her heart for service.
“Seeing a need and being the answer aligns with a purpose-driven life that only can be accomplished with the help of the Lord,” she says.
Her words of encouragement to women everywhere are both simple and powerful:
“You are enough. Regardless of age, status, or education, you are more than enough. Even when days seem long and tasks are overwhelming, remember your why and know that you are created for a time such as this.”
Through faith, leadership, service, and authenticity, Chawntia Johnson continues to inspire others to walk boldly in purpose while remembering the importance of caring for themselves along the journey.
