Celebrating ANAC nurse pioneers
For more than 100 years, Black History Month has been celebrated each February, recognizing the achievements of Black Americans. As part of this year's celebration, ANAC has chosen to honor outstanding Black ANAC nurse pioneers. Today, we are excited to highlight Kendrick T. Clack, MS, APRN, FNP-C, AAHIVS.
Nurse Practitioner at AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in HIV care and research?
Early in my career, I witnessed firsthand the negative impact of shame and stigma from this disease on very close friends living with HIV. While studying to become a nurse practitioner, I learned about PrEP while I was searching for an idea for a capstone project. I saw it as a great HIV prevention tool for primary care.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I'm proud of the work I've done with the Harris County Public Health Department in developing the foundation for PrEP services. I'm also proud to be part of introducing PrEP education to the National Black Nurses Association.

What do you enjoy most about being an ANAC member?
I enjoy the opportunity to network with colleagues with not only longevity in the field of HIV care and research, but who also look like me and are able to understand my perspective. As a new provider, I sometimes find myself all over the place with ideas and my mentor has to remind me to refocus. I also enjoy access to continuing education opportunities provided via webinars and conferences. I currently serve on the ANAC awards committee.

Anything else you would like your fellow ANAC members to know about you?
I really appreciate the opportunity afforded to me by my patients to serve as their resource to achieving optimal health and wellness. I also enjoy collaborating with colleagues to develop innovative ways to address the many health disparities that impact our communities.
Interested in joining Kendrick on ANAC's awards committee? Visit our website or contact Erin Myers at erin@anacnet.org.

Interested in joining ANAC or renewing your membership? Email ANAC Membership Manager Nakera Dumas at nakera@anacnet.org or complete the online membership form.