Conversations with the Inspiring Kimberly Kimble

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Kimble.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My healthcare journey began as a registered nurse in Atlanta at a Level I trauma center. Itching with the desire to pursue an advanced practice degree, I decided to begin researching the four advanced practice nursing specialties. Nurse anesthesia seemed to fit my personality and career goals the most, so I begin preparing to apply. During my research of the profession, I learned that there is very little minority representation. Only 10% of the 52,000 nurse anesthetists in the U.S. are a minority; only 2% are African American. While this wasn’t a deterrent for me, I recognized the impact that it could have on other minority applicants. In 2011, I decided to attend the Diversity in Nurse Anesthesia Mentorship Program’s (DNAMP) Information session to network with likeminded registered nurses who were also interested in applying. The informational gave me the jumpstart that I needed. I applied shortly after the event to my top choice, Case Western Reserve University, and was offered acceptance into the next cohort.

While in school, I stayed actively involved in DNAMP mentoring aspiring students with a predilection for single mothers who were interested in applying. I myself was a single mother of a 1-year old baby girl, so I could give them a first-hand account of the struggles they would endure. Upon graduation, I have stayed actively involved in the organization, now serving on the Executive Board of Directors. To date, we have helped registered nurses gain acceptance into 68 of the 124 U.S. nurse anesthesia programs.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Navigating the profession as a student and now as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist hasn’t always been easy. As a single mother, I dealt with mommy guilt. I was blessed enough to have a tribe for my support system. Tough skin, determination, and my desire to be successful have kept me going. My advice to any woman who is interested in pursuing a career in medicine is to be tenacious. Pursue your goals unapologetically. And find someone you can trust to lean on in your weak moments.

Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
Currently, I am an Assistant Professor for a nurse anesthesia program here in Georgia. I also volunteer for a nonprofit organization called LAUNCH Augusta, which stands for Leaders & Adolescents Uniting to Navigate Careers in Healthcare. The program is for minority students grades 2-12 who are interested in pursuing careers in healthcare. I am also a brand ambassador for Medelita scrub company. I believe what sets me apart from others is that my desire to give back to my community is not tied to a desire to be set apart from others. I’d much rather be a part of a larger group of minority leaders who want to make a difference and motivate young minority men and women.

Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
Step outside your comfort zone and contact the person who is doing exactly what you want to do.

Contact Info:

• Website: DiversityCRNA.org
• Email: KKimbleCRNA@gmail.com
• Instagram: __missambitious__

Image Credit:
IG: @transitionsbyjohnpoon

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