Messages from Asante

Ms. Geneva is my former boss and my one of a kind super mentor. I remember one night, many years ago, I made a med error and was so afraid I was going to lose everything. (my career, my stability, my life) I called Geneva crying and she talked me down and through the whole process. All ended well but I haven’t forgotten the love and patience Ms. Geneva showed me. Another fond memory is seeing Geneva talking down one of our confused patients. Her voice was calm and clear, loving but decisive. That’s Ms. Geneva. I’m back in school working on my Masters degree in nursing at least in part thanks to Geneva. She never Stopped encouraging all of us to go back to school and to keep learning and growing. And after growing up as she did, where she did, when she did, I’m so impressed that Geneva found her strength in learning and growing rather than in violence and retribution. Ms. Geneva is an example of the kind of world I’d like to live in. She sets the bar for all of us to be the best we can be, and I am truly Grateful.

My first encounter with Geneva was on a telephone call. The sound of her voice, its timbre and cadence struck me. I looked forward to meeting her. That was in the summer of 2013. Now, nearly 9 years later, Geneva’s voice stays with me. Something about it inspires loyalty & engenders trust. I doubt I am alone in that sentiment. I have had the privilege of hearing that voice whisper encouragement; express understanding; provide guidance & all those things many others cherish about her. I have also been privy to listen to her when that brilliant mind starts strategizing and when she is putting on her dramatic flair. I had heard her voice when there was a sternness and seriousness behind it. I swear it could make a grown man cower in his boots. My favorite memories of listening to Geneva are from times that had nothing to do with work at all…. Moments of full- on belly laughter; Listening to stories from the past; the pride when she introduces family, the giddiness over desserts and Frappuccinos, and always words of love.

Geneva has always been someone I’ve admired and love to interact with. Having both been raised in the south, listening to Geneva is like being home. Geneva has the unique ability to successfully weather complex times and people, achieve much, stay genuine, and retain a strong, ethical and caring base that shines from her like day break. I adore her humor, fun expressions, and brilliant mind. What a blessing it is to work with this amazing woman.

Mother, Mentor, Goddess, Queen, just a few titles I endow Dr. Geneva Craig with. I had the privilege of working beside her for a number of years. I first only saw her on paper—her credentials and achievements… I was very worried we were about to get a boss that was going to be a real hardass lol. She turned out to be such a game changer for me and all of us! I've never before witnessed someone who could discipline you and still show love in the very same moment! And me being me- I needed a lot of discipline. I came from a very abusive and toxic childhood. I had so much anger mixed with so much love I was a walking dichotomy! Geneva was also an angry child due to the abuse and racial inequities she endured on a daily basis. Dr. Martin Luther King spoke with her about her anger and she understood it just isn't a productive lifestyle if you want change. She still needs to talk me off the ledge from time to time when I get on a soap box about some issue- she has helped me become a kinder, softer and less wounded person for sure. I can only imagine yet thousands of people she has impacted from her mere 35 years on planet earth. 😉 She truly is my Mother, Mentor Goddess and Queen.

Geneva is a great leader. She is kind and motherly to everyone she meets. She has helped both professionally and personally. She was the unit manager while I was a patient in Inpatient Rehab back in 2010 and cared for me when I was recovering from Guillain Barre Syndrome. This month-long hospitalization was the most scarred/ stressed I’ve ever been in my life and she was there with me every step of the way. She always goes above and beyond to make sure her colleagues and peers are taken care of. She is a great mentor and is always pushing others to advance themselves both personally and professionally. Geneva you’re definitely a one of a kind human being and we need more people with your drive, dedication, and genuine care in this world.

Miss Geneva took a chance on me. She hired me as a CNA1 and allowed me to get my other certificate for a CNA2 while working. She is a very compassionate person. Always willing to help anyone that is in need. When we needed help on the floor. She didn’t get dirty with us. Put a pair of scrubs on and hit the floor running.

Great mentor helped me when in nursing school and is always teaching and inspiring!!

Okay here goes… Where can I even begin when writing about my experiences with Geneva. Oh my goodness, Dr. Geneva Craig is the whole package anyone could want or need in a colleague, friend, manager, and mentor. She encouraged so many to go to college and become their best selves, myself included, I treasure you Geneva and will be your dance partner anytime.

Geneva is the single most inspirational I’ve ever met. Every story she has of her life fills me with hope and amazement. She makes me strive everyday to be a better, stronger person. Knowing that I am someone that she cares for and thinks highly of makes me feel like I must truly be someone worthwhile, Even if I can’t see it myself. This is a sentiment I often turn to in times of darkness for myself. I deeply cherish my love and friendship with Geneva.

Even though I haven’t been at Asante very long, Geneva immediately made me feel like family. She comforted me in the loss of my husband and shared her personal losses with me. I have never met anyone before that has so instantly made you feel like you have just met a lifelong friend, confidant, and mentor.