Jax State Senior Nursing Student Jenna Hardin Leading with Purpose and Serving with Passion

02/19/2025

By Brett Buckner 

Jenna Hardin, a senior nursing student, has been named one of six students in the state chosen for the Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Scholars Statewide Leadership Team. The AHEC Leadership Team is a select group of healthcare students chosen to represent and advocate for community health initiatives across the state. Being one of only six individuals recognized is an incredible honor, and it means a great deal to me," said Hardin, a Piedmont native. "It's an opportunity to engage in outreach efforts, address healthcare disparities, and collaborate with other future leaders in the field. We are also the driving force behind small acts that can have a ripple effect in our state. It is something that I hope I inspire others to be part of."  

Hardin admits being surprised that she was part of such a distinguished group. "I was up against some amazing people," she said. "I was in utter awe at the skills and the people who are part of AHEC in general, let alone when you actually get to know everyone on a collaborative level." Receiving such an honor will have a powerful impact on Hardin's career, providing an opportunity to grow as both a nurse and a person. After graduation, Hardin intends to enroll in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at UAB to focus on emergency and critical care. "I have this whole plan to become a flight nurse and instruct at FEMA to teach others to be someone's "calm in the storm," she said. Hardin has long been driven by a passion to help others, advocate for patients and make a real difference in healthcare, whether at the bedside, in emergency response or in a leadership role. “This experience will help me build the skills and connections needed to serve,” she said. “More than anything, I see this as a way to give back and continue learning how to better serve the people who need it most.”   

As an active member of organizations including the Nurses Christian Fellowship and the National Student Nurses' Association, Hardin advocates for a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system. “Her passion for serving rural and underserved communities stems from growing up with limited resources and witnessing healthcare disparities firsthand,” the official notification in the Alabama AHEC Network Newsletter stated. “These experiences drive her commitment to bridging the gap in access through outreach and education.”  

For Hardin, leadership is about service, encouragement, and empowering others to reach their full potential. She believes in leading by example, fostering teamwork, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. "I actively work to grow by seeking mentorship, learning from experiences, and refining my ability to uplift and inspire those around me," she said. "To me, leadership isn't about being in charge. It's about encouraging others to succeed and making a lasting impact together."  

Hardin gives full credit to the staff and faculty shaping her into the type of nurse she aspires to be. "Their dedication and mentorship have reinforced my passion for serving others," she said. "I'm grateful for the foundation they've helped me build as I continue this journey."