Dr. Sandra Tucker is the dean of the school of nursing at Southern University at Shreveport in Louisiana. She has been praised for her work at the school, including developing its accredited registered nursing program in just one year.

Tucker joined SULSA in 2004. While leading at the school, she has placed an emphasis on connecting with the undeserved community, designing the registered nursing program to address the needs of its economically and educationally disadvantaged population.

Her efforts have proven effective. According to the school, 91 percent of the first group of students in the program passed the rigorous nursing licensure exam (NCLEX-RN).

Sandra Tucker is making history as … a dynamic individual who saw the needs of her community and found a way to address them. Tucker’s work at SULSA has resulted in providing opportunities to people who might not otherwise have had them to study and successfully work in health care.

What’s next for Tucker?

Tucker continues her role in overseeing the nursing programs at SULSA.

A little-known fact about Dr. Sandra Tucker …

Tucker has a law degree and is licensed to practice law in South Carolina. THE GRIO’S Q & A WITH DR. SANDRA TUCKER

Q: What’s next in this chapter of your life?

A: I would like to establish a relationship with a nursing program in an African country that would allow for the exchange of students and faculty.

Q: What’s a fact about you that many people don’t know?

A: Many people don’t know that I practiced law as a public defender in Beaufort, South Carolina after graduating from law school and passing the bar exam in 2005.

Q: What’s your favorite quote?

A: “Our greatest glory is not in ever failing, but rising every time we fall.” -Confucius

Q: Where do you get your inspiration?

A: My inspiration comes from my 12-year-old daughter. She taught me to always have hope, faith, and to believe.

Q: Who are/were your mentors?

A: Dr. Deborah Oakley, Professor Emeritus, at the University of Michigan, School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Q: What advice would you give to anyone who’s craving to achieve their dreams?

A: Never give up your dreams. Your dreams will continue to inspire and motivate you.