"BHA Alumnae Stories” information about BHA graduates. Below are some links from LinkedIn where our students have been highlighted.
Onika (Nikki)
Gunn)
I began my educational journey at
Governors State University (GSU) in the fall of 2016 after graduating from
Olive-Harvey College through the Dual Degree Program. In 2018, I earned my
Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration.
My undergraduate experience was exceptional, largely due to the
incredible professors who created a supportive and enriching environment. GSU
felt like home, and there was no better place for me to complete my educational
journey and I returned to GSU to continue my education.
In the spring of 2022, I resumed my
studies in GSU’s Master’s program in Human Resource Management, which I proudly
completed in December 2024 with a 3.8 GPA.
From an early age, I’ve felt that I
was meant to be in the field of service. This calling has been the driving
force behind my career and educational pursuits. While managing an intermediate
care facility for adults with disabilities, I developed a deep commitment to
making a difference in people’s lives—a commitment I continue to honor today.
As a single mother, I was motivated
to show my children that no matter the challenges, it is possible to strive for
greatness. My education has given me the tools to achieve my goals and inspire
others. Currently, as a Service Coordinator for Easterseals, I work closely
with families, helping them access critical resources and support to improve
their quality of life.
Both of my degrees have not only
shaped my professional growth but also solidified my long-term vision of
creating a lasting impact. My ultimate goal is to establish a healthcare agency
that delivers compassionate care while empowering individuals and communities.
Through this venture, I aim to inspire a new generation to embrace the
importance of service and strive for meaningful change.
I am deeply grateful to the
professors at GSU who played a pivotal role in my journey. Their guidance and
support have been instrumental in helping me achieve my goals and continue to
fuel my passion for serving others.
Tierra Gully, BHA
In 2020, Tierra graduated from hashtag#GovState Bachelor of
Health Administration program with the distinction of Magna Cum Laude. Soon
after graduation, she accepted the position of administrative manager for the
National Youth Advocate Program overseeing the recruitment for five offices in
Illinois. After that, Tierra became a Human Resources Director at the Dyer
Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. There, she applied her knowledge of health
administration industry and within a span of three months successfully
augmented the staffing at Dyer Nursing and Rehabilitation Center by 80%.
Currently, Tierra is the Human Resources Business Manager at 4Front Ventures,
where, among other responsibilities and initiatives, she spearhead diversity
program that resulted in a 15% expansion of workforce diversity. Tierra is
completing master's in human resources management and she selected hashtag#GovState to do it.
Consider Bachelor of Health Administration hashtag#BHA degree at
GovState university. We are at the rolling admission, you can apply at any
time.
(Ref. Source Linkedin Tierra Gully, BHA)
Marquitta Johnson, EMBA
As faculty, our greatest joy comes from witnessing the success and
achievements of our students. In my next posts, I’d like to share
stories of some of the #GovState Bachelor of Health Administration degree (#BHA) alumni. Marquitta Johnson, EMBA graduated from Governors State University with a #BHA
degree in 2018. She now works for Kelsey-Seybold Clinic in Houston,
Texas, where she manages the Ancillary Operations Team, a dedicated
group of 18 individuals that includes the Operations for the Appeals
& Adjustment team, Refund & Recoveries team, and Claims Quality
Team. Her focus is on ensuring efficient operations and facilitating
seamless health plan processes to enhance service delivery and client
satisfaction. Seeing students excel academically and professionally is,
among many things, a testament to the power of quality education and
mentorship. More information about Bachelor of Health Administration
program at GovState: https://lnkd.in/gPNDRBTx
Apply now; it a rolling enrollment process.
(Ref. Source Linkedin Marquitta Johnson, EMBA )
Kenneth Weidman, BHA
The story of yet another #GovState#BHA graduate. Kenneth Weidman
is a Health Benefit Manager at the Mid-America Carpenters Regional
Council Benefit Funds. He graduated cum laude in 2021. Kenneth was one
of a non-traditional BHA adult learners. This is his journey.
“My name is Kenneth Weidman, and I’m just one of many who have traveled
the path of lifelong learning. Like many, I started my career without a
four-year degree and it was clear that it limited my career potential.
To keep up, I often found myself working harder than my peers, diving
deep into the subject matter just to stay on par with colleagues who had
more advanced qualifications.My
focus became employee benefits—everything from retirement plans and
defined contributions, like 401k, to medical, dental, vision, and life
insurance. Mastering this material and becoming a subject matter expert
felt like a natural path for me. Yet, there came a point where I knew
that to continue growing, I needed to complete my formal education. As
an adult learner, I returned to school part-time. Balancing work and
studies was tough, with many late nights and weekend classes. But in
2021, I finally achieved my goal and earned my BHA degree from Governors
State University. Earning my degree has been a game-changer. I’ve been
able to combine my years of practical experience with the knowledge
gained from my studies, opening doors to leadership roles that once
seemed out of reach. I’ve learned that true leadership isn't about how
many people you manage; it's about the responsibility you hold and the
impact you make, that each job, each company, and each role offers
unique lessons and growth opportunities.
To anyone on a similar path, I advocate embracing new challenges and not
being afraid to go back to school and to try new roles. The more
experiences you gain, the more you grow. Remember, we're all lifelong
learners, and every step—whether it’s a class, a job, or a
challenge—adds to our education. My story is just one of many, but it’s a
testament to the value of perseverance and continuous learning.”
Learn more about Bachelor of Health Administration degree at Governors
State Univeesity: https://www.govst.edu/bha/ All classes are offered online
(Ref. Source Linkedin Kenneth Weidman)
Marzena Zagata Milon
Many #GovState Bachelor of Health Administration #BHA
students are non-traditional learners, balancing academics, family, and
work. This alone is challenging, but for some, the journey is even more
complex. Growing up in a different culture, speaking another language,
and navigating the unique obstacles of being a #DACA student—without FAFSA eligibility—adds an extra layer of difficulty. Yet, Marzena Zagata Milon, a #GovState#BHA
alumna, overcame it all. If you're unsure about applying to the BHA
program or completing it successfully, read Marzena's story.
"I graduated from Governors State University in May 2023 with a
Bachelor's in Health Administration, earning the Outstanding Student
Award and graduating Summa Cum Laude. I entered the program with no
healthcare experience, worked full-time to pay tuition without FAFSA
support, and cared for two children. It was tough, but absolutely worth
it! With no prior healthcare experience, I began job hunting months
before graduation and was hired by CommunityHealth, a nonprofit clinic
serving uninsured and underinsured patients. It was a perfect fit from
day one. At #CommunityHealth,
I divide my time between Outreach/Health Education and Care
Coordination. BHA coursework in epidemiology, ethics, and communication
helped me develop the skills I use daily, especially in health education
projects, where I analyze patient data and create educational materials
for our community.
The comprehensive training I received at BHA- from professional mock
interviews to group projects—has been invaluable in shaping my career in
nonprofit healthcare.
One year after graduation, I am in a role that allows to keep growing
while making a meaningful impact. For DACA students, GovState admission
process focuses on grades and test scores, not immigration status. Plus,
GovState treats DACA students as Illinois residents, therefore, we pay
in state tuition, which makes education more affordable. I never felt
judged and the diverse student body made my experience even richer. To
future graduates: healthcare is a vast field, and your degree will open
many doors. Whether in finance or nonprofit work, there’s a place for
you. Enjoy the journey and explore all the opportunities that come your
way!"
More info about BHA program and admission https://lnkd.in/gPNDRBTx
(Ref. Source Linkedin Marzena Zagata Milon )