Jakiera Stewart

Master of Health Administration (MHA)

As a proud Memphis native, my bond with the city has only deepened through my academic journey at the University of Memphis. Anticipating my graduation with a Master's in Healthcare Administration in Spring 2024, I reflect on the unique challenges I faced—balancing full-time studies with full-time employment, all while raising my spirited 4-year-old daughter, Ryan Alivia. The University of Memphis has been a crucible for change, shaping individuals like me into agents of progress.

Within the university's walls, I've encountered colleagues whose intelligence and innovative ideas are nothing short of inspiring. Together with my classmates and the guidance of experienced professors, I've been pushed to expand my horizons and question established norms. This environment has been pivotal in my transformation into a healthcare professional, providing access to unparalleled opportunities through alumni networks and institutional wisdom.

Memphis, my lifelong home, is not without its flaws. Yet, it is these imperfections that fuel my drive to contribute positively to our community. My pursuit of a Master's degree is not merely academic; it's a gateway to effecting meaningful change in the systems that shape our lives.

My daughter, Ryan Alivia, is the heartbeat of my motivation. She, like all children, will inherit the consequences of our actions today. By striving for excellence and pursuing my ambitions, I aim to set an example for her—to show that it's possible to carve out a space for transformation and to illuminate a brighter future for her generation.

The School of Public Health stands as a beacon in the revitalization of Memphis. As public health advocates, we are tasked with challenging entrenched systems and sparking reform. As I approach the completion of my degree this Spring, I do so with the confidence and readiness to cast my light onto the world and drive positive change in our beloved Memphis.