Young African-American Man Makes History as First Black Man to Earn PhD in Nursing at University of Illinois-Chicago

Harrell Jordan, a young African-American man from Galewood, has shattered barriers by becoming the first black man to earn a Doctorate degree in Nursing at the University of Illinois-Chicago in the United States. Jordan's remarkable achievement highlights his determination and commitment to breaking down racial barriers in academia.

Despite facing adversity throughout his academic journey, Jordan remained resilient and focused on his goal. Growing up, he lost his mother at the age of four, his father at five, and his right arm at ten. However, he credits his parents for instilling in him the value of education, which propelled him to pursue his dreams relentlessly.

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Jordan's journey to earning his PhD in Nursing was marked by numerous milestones and achievements. He obtained his bachelor's degree in Community Health from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and later pursued a graduate-entry master's program for Nursing at DePaul University, where he was the only black student among 65 students. Despite being the minority, Jordan persevered and excelled in his studies.

Throughout his academic career, Jordan's passion for teaching and community service became evident. He worked as a graduate assistant while studying for his master's degree, where he discovered his love for teaching. Subsequently, he was recruited to join the Bridge to Doctorate program at the University of Illinois Chicago, which paved the way for him to pursue a Ph.D. and a career in academia.

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Jordan's dissertation focused on the role of masculinity in African American men's utilization of healthcare, shedding light on important issues within the community. His research highlighted that approximately 43% of African American men rely on the emergency room for their healthcare needs, emphasizing the need for improved access to healthcare services.

In addition to his academic achievements, Jordan has been actively involved in community service initiatives. He volunteers with the Sickle Cell Disease Association of Illinois, raising awareness and funds in memory of his aunt who passed away from the disease. Furthermore, he works as an associate dean of faculty at Chamberlain University, where he mentors black male students and inspires them to pursue higher education.

Jordan's groundbreaking accomplishment serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring black scholars, demonstrating that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible. He hopes that his journey will inspire future generations of black men to pursue their dreams and overcome any obstacles they may encounter along the way.

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As Jordan reflects on his journey, he remains committed to his mission of empowering and uplifting the next generation of African American scholars. He believes that by leading by example and breaking down barriers, he can create a more inclusive and diverse academic community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

In recognition of his academic excellence and commitment to community service, Jordan has been the recipient of prestigious scholarships and awards, including the Nursing Marguerite A. Dixon Scholarship Award and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship at the University of Illinois Chicago.