Commencement Spotlight: Bristeria Clark

Commencement Spotlight: Bristeria Clark, Associate of Science in Nursing

Future Plans: Intensive Care Unit Nurse, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program, Albany State University

Bristeria Clark, a 35-year-old native of Albany, Georgia, will graduate on May 9 with an Associate of Science in Nursing from the Albany State University Darton College of Health Professions. 

Clark, a Darton Health Professions Foundation scholarship recipient, has combined academic achievement with extensive professional and community engagement throughout her time at ASU. She gained hands-on clinical experience as an RN Nurse Extern at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, preparing her for a seamless transition into the healthcare workforce.

Beyond the classroom, Clark has demonstrated a deep commitment to advocacy and community leadership. She is a member of the Leadership Albany Class of 2026 and has served in numerous impactful roles, including Positive Childhood Alliance Georgia Ambassador, FIRE Fellow (Families Invested in Reforming Education), Caring Across Generations Fellow, and Coverage Captain for Georgians for a Healthy Future. Her service also includes work as a Family Peer Ambassador for Georgia’s Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), a 9to5 Georgia canvasser, and a participant in the Mom Circle and Mothering Justice fellowships.

Her leadership and dedication have earned her significant recognition, including being named a Top Four Finalist for the 2024 Albany Area Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40, a 2025 Rural Leaders Magazine 40 Under 40 Honoree, and certifications as a doula through Morehouse School of Medicine and Health Connect One, as well as a certified clerk through the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government.

Following graduation, Clark has been offered a position in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. She also plans to continue her education at Albany State University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), further advancing her career in healthcare.

What motivated you to learn more about your field?
As a child, I always aspired to become a nurse. I was drawn to the idea of serving others during some of their most vulnerable moments. Growing up, I understood the value of compassionate care and the difference it makes in families’ lives. Nursing provides the opportunity to blend clinical knowledge with empathy, advocacy, and service. My personal experiences coupled with my passion for maternal and community health, further fueled my desire to enter the profession. I wanted to be in a position where I could not only provide bedside care but also empower individuals and families with knowledge, dignity, and respect.

Why did you choose ASU?
I chose Albany State University because of its flexibility  and proximity to my home. As a working mother of two, it was important for me to attend an institution that would allow me to balance my academic goals with my professional and family responsibilities. The accessibility of weekend clinicals and supportive faculty made it possible for me to continue working full-time while pursuing one of the most rigorous academic programs. ASU provided the structure and community I needed to succeed without having to uproot my family.

 

What do you love most about your chosen profession?
What I love most about nursing is the ability to combine clinical excellence with compassion. Nursing allows me to express my personality, attentiveness, and resilience while delivering high-quality, evidence-based care. I understand the gravity of this profession, as we are entrusted with patients’ lives. That responsibility motivates me to remain vigilant, follow safety protocols meticulously, and pay close attention to every detail of my patients’ conditions. Nursing is both an art and a science, and I value the opportunity to practice both with integrity and purpose.

Who has made the biggest impact on you, and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU?
The ASU Nursing Program played a pivotal role in my success. The availability of weekend clinicals and the understanding nature of many professors allowed me to thrive despite the demands of work and family. Ms. Lyla Taft has been one of my greatest role models. She consistently challenged me during clinicals and encouraged me to strive for excellence. Her kindness and steady support helped build my confidence. Dr. Belinda Gilbert also made a significant impact on my journey. She genuinely cares for her students and used personal experiences to make complex material relatable and memorable. Her uplifting spirit and sense of humor brought encouragement even during my most challenging days. Ms. Jennifer Heyer concluded my academic journey on a strong note. Her nurturing and energetic personality helped synthesize everything I learned and prepared me thoroughly for the NCLEX examination. Each of these women exemplifies professionalism, leadership, and compassion in nursing.

What are you passionate about outside of your education?
Outside of my academic pursuits, I am deeply passionate about community advocacy. I actively advocate for paid family leave, closing Georgia’s health insurance coverage gap, addressing maternal health inequities, reducing utility inequities, eliminating economic barriers, and improving educational outcomes. My lived experiences and professional work have shaped my commitment to ensuring families—particularly in rural and underserved communities—have equitable access to resources and opportunities. Advocacy is not separate from my nursing career; it complements it by addressing the systemic issues that impact health outcomes.

What advice would you give to other ASU students?
My advice to current ASU students is to remain focused, resilient, and prayerful throughout their journey. Align yourself with individuals who share your vision and values. Seek mentors, mature peers, and professors who challenge and uplift you. Success requires discipline, humility, and perseverance. No matter how overwhelming the process may seem, continue working diligently and trust the effort you are putting in. If I can complete one of the most demanding programs while working full-time, caring for my children, externing, and serving in the community, then others can achieve their goals as well. Stay committed and trust the process.

What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education?
I would encourage high school students to strongly consider Albany State University for their higher education journey. ASU offers a diverse range of academic programs, scholarships, internships, and leadership opportunities. As a proud HBCU, ASU provides a culturally affirming environment that fosters both academic and personal growth. The institution consistently shares opportunities that help students advance professionally and financially. My experience at ASU has been transformative, and I highly recommend it to any student seeking a supportive and impactful educational experience.