T&T Nurses’ Association of America, Inc.

There is an old saying that says “charity begins at home”, however, it does not end there.  This very notion is seen demonstrated by the many Caribbean based not-for-profit organizations in New York and The Trinidad and Tobago Nurses’ Association of America (TTNAA), Inc. is certainly no exception.  

T&T Nurses’ Association of America, Inc.

There is an old saying that says “charity begins at home”, however, it does not end there.  This very notion is seen demonstrated by the many Caribbean based not-for-profit organizations in New York and The Trinidad and Tobago Nurses’ Association of America (TTNAA), Inc. is certainly no exception.  

Founded in August 1968 by a small group of visionaries, this organization is still going strong and making much headway 51 years later.  The founders of this organization understood very early the need to establish a linkage within the Trinidadian nursing profession in New York, as such, a dynamic organization was birthed.  

Phyllis Clarke-Mills was fortunate enough to become the first President for TTNAA in 1969. She then acquired the much-converted status of Life Membership, due to her outstanding contributions and commitment to the Association’s founding principles. This includes, but is not limited to, stimulating the professional, social and developmental interests of colleagues in the City of New York, the Diaspora and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Over the years, TTNAA awarded more than 60 college students who chose to become part of the noble profession of nursing.  These individuals were provided with much deserving scholarships and grant awards, which totaled over $60, 000. To date, TTNAA is extremely proud of this achievement.

Recent Endeavors

Chanting the way forward for TTNAA  is Sherise Warner-Rollock. Mrs. Warner-Rollock received a scholarship grant award in 2005 and later joined the organization.  After holding many positions she currently sits in the presidential seat and will continue on for the 2019-20 year. Warner-Rollock, being the 13th President, together with the other members of the organization look toward the future with confidence, knowing that they will continue to grow from strength to strength.  TTNAA is reassured by the following belief, “God is our refuge and our strength.”

September 21st, 2018 gave way to a monumental moment for TTNAA, as they celebrated their 50th Anniversary Gala at the elegant El Caribe Catering Hall in Brooklyn, New York.

At the event, TTNAA  recognized two of the six original members.  They included Sylma Nelson, R.N. and Claire Peterkin, R.N.  In addition to those recognized, TTNAA also honored two previous presidents, Pamela Charles, R.N. and Jacqueline Greene, R.N. Marcel Robin was also presented with a community service award that she was very appreciative of.

In that same year, a nursing student, Ms. Waterman, received the 2018 scholarship grant award.  She then went on to be quite successful in the State Board Examination which enabled her the Registered Nursing License. Joining Ms. Waterman is Abigail Snaggs, who graduated with a Ph.D. in Nursing.

In addition to providing financial assistance to qualified individuals, the TTNAA is also involved in many other ventures.  This includes endorsing an annual Ecumenical church service to commemorate the Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.  The organization also liaises with the Embassy of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Washington DC, and the Permanent Mission of the United States regarding beneficial opportunities for Trinidad and Tobago’s nationals globally.  They also provide emergency donations, material donations and technical assistance to individuals and entities in New York and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

In collaboration with churches such as the World Mission Church Assembly on Flatbush Avenue, TTNAA, Inc. conducts annual health fairs in various communities.  Caribbean American Nurses Association (CANA) and Caribbean Nurses Organization (CNO), as well as the International Council of Nurses (ICN), are all organizations that work hand in hand with TTAA, Inc. on various initiatives.  For the year 2019, it is the organization’s intention to join hands with the constituent group of the Member of Assembly, 59th District.

On April 24th, 2019, TTNAA had its 26th installation of officers for the term 2019 to 2020.  The new Executive Board is as follows:

Adana Edwards RN-Corresponding Secretary, Joan Mayers RN-Public Relations Officer, Thecla Williams RN-Vice President, Naomi Henry RN-Treasurer, the 14th President – Sherise Warner-Rollock RN, Joyce Bain RN-Trustee, Allison Fletcher RN-Trustee, Jocelyn Alleyne RN-Business Manager, Maudlyn George RN-Recording Secretary, and Barbara Guevarra-Francis RN-Chaplin.

Upcoming Event

Scheduled for October 2019, is the 8th Quadrennial Conference in collaboration with Trinidad and Tobago Registered Nurses Association.  This auspicious event is to be held at the Trinidad and Tobago Hilton. The theme for this year is “Nurses and Midwives Providing Quality Care in a Changing Environment.”  In preparation for this event, there was a fundraiser in the form of food sale on June 8th, 2019, which was very successful. Nonetheless, the organization still welcomes donations in support of the cause.  Interested persons can contact President Sherise Warner-Rollock at (347)-998-8670 or Jean Leon at (917)-776-2864.

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