HOUSTON – At Prairie View A&M University’s College of Nursing, this year’s graduating class is helping meet one of health care’s most urgent needs: a well-prepared, highly skilled workforce.
Among them, a growing number of male graduates are entering the field at a time when men make up approximately 12–13% of the nation’s nursing workforce. At PVAMU, about 15% of students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program are male, reflecting steady growth aligned with national workforce trends.
Harris (l) and Jackson (r)
That progress is supported by intentional investment.
Through leadership from Dr. Allyssa Harris, dean of the College of Nursing, and Undergraduate Program Director Dr. Antonea’ Jackson, the College secured funding from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Nursing Shortage Reduction Program. The initiative focuses on expanding the pipeline of qualified nursing students through targeted outreach, academic support, mentorship, and professional development, helping ensure students successfully graduate and transition into the workforce.
Graduates Step into Critical Workforce Roles
This year’s male nursing graduates are already stepping into essential roles across the Greater Houston area and beyond. Many have secured positions in high-demand specialties, including critical care, emergency departments, pediatrics, and medical-surgical units.
Isaiah Cotto
Their paths reflect both personal commitment and the strength of PVAMU’s nursing program.
“I believe my purpose in life is to serve others… nursing is the best way for me to fulfill that purpose,” said graduating senior Isaiah Cotto.
“Nursing needs a wide range of perspectives, and being a man in nursing is an asset,” added Jimmy Flores.
For Jorden Gidrey, entering the field is also about contributing to broader workforce needs: “Black males make up less than 1% of nurses, and I wanted to be part of changing that statistic.”
Gabriel London
Students like Gabriel London see their role as opening doors for others in the field. “Sometimes you have to be the person that changes the narrative… you can create a path not just for yourself, but for others too,” he said.
From early inspiration to hands-on clinical experience, each graduate brings a unique perspective to patient care.
“Seeing health care workers on the frontlines made me realize I wanted to be part of something bigger,” said Brandon Villafuerte.
“When I held an infant, something clicked for me,” added Javon McDonald. “I could genuinely see myself caring for patients in the future.”
Guided by Experience and Leadership
Inside the College of Nursing, students benefit from faculty with a wide range of clinical and leadership experience. Doctorally prepared alumni Dr. Douglas Wakhu, Dr. Isaac Smith, and Dr. Franklin Wynn bring expertise spanning critical care, military service, and quality improvement. Adjunct faculty James Alexander and Herbert Ortiz contribute additional leadership experience from health care administration and practice.
Their mentorship provides students with insight into the many pathways available within the nursing profession.
The College’s legacy also includes Cecil Brewer, its first male graduate, whose continued engagement reflects the program’s longstanding commitment to preparing practice-ready nurses.
Building Skills and Community
Students say their success is shaped not only by academics, but also by the support systems they build along the way.
Javon McDonald
“It’s different, but the friendships and support I’ve found have helped shape my journey in meaningful ways,” said Stone Grimes.
“Stay connected with your peers… they’ll keep you motivated and grounded,” McDonald added.
Partnerships like the Prairie View Nursing Alumni Chapter further strengthen mentorship opportunities, connecting students with professionals who support their transition into practice.
The Next Generation of Nurses
The College continues to build its pipeline of future nurses, with current students already preparing to enter the profession.
Dominick Bibbs
“Going through sickle cell disease made me realize how much of an impact nurses have,” said senior Dominick Bibbs. “I want to be there for patients going through what I experienced.”
“Nursing requires strength, intelligence, adaptability, and communication,” added David Langenberg, who graduates in 2027. “Those are qualities anyone can bring to the profession.”
Preparing Practice-Ready Professionals
As health care systems continue to evolve, the need for skilled, adaptable nurses remains critical. PVAMU’s College of Nursing is helping meet that demand by preparing graduates who are ready to lead, provide high-quality care, and contribute across a range of clinical settings.
“Our male nursing students are thriving,” said Dr. Antonea’ Jackson. “Recent graduates have had tremendous success and are being recognized in their institutions for both compassionate care and leadership.”
As these graduates enter the workforce, they bring with them not only clinical expertise, but also a shared commitment to service, strengthening health care teams and improving patient care across Texas and beyond.
Click here to view more of this semester’s notable graduates.
-PVAMU-