
Hobbies and interests
Art History
Baking
Clinical Psychology
Cognitive Science
African American Studies
True Crime
Board Games And Puzzles
Cooking
Reading
Health
Academic
History
Social Science
Psychology
Design
Literature
I read books multiple times per month
Alecia Ford
1,485
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Alecia Ford
1,485
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
My pursuit of advanced healthcare leadership education stems from a fundamental mission to transform systems that have historically failed marginalized communities. My post-graduate journey equips me with the administrative expertise, strategic vision, and policy knowledge necessary to drive meaningful institutional change.
Working in community mental health and nonprofit organizations didn’t simply expose me to disparities—I already knew them firsthand, having lived their consequences. I understand the deep mistrust that persists within the African American community, a skepticism rooted in generations of neglect, medical exploitation, and systemic exclusion. For me, the decision was clear: to be part of the movement addressing the root causes of healthcare injustice and restoring faith in care that should belong to everyone.
I am deeply aware of the glaring gaps in current healthcare frameworks and the absence of diverse voices in leadership roles. My research has shown that far too few decision-makers share my background or perspective, creating blind spots in policy development that further disadvantage vulnerable populations. That’s why I am uniquely committed to transforming healthcare—not just through reform, but by fostering trust, inclusion, and dignity for those who have long been overlooked. My work is shaped by deep empathy, lived experience, and an unwavering dedication to ensuring care is accessible and equitable for all.
Education
Webster University
Master's degree programMajors:
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
Minors:
- Finance and Financial Management Services
Old Dominion University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, Other
Minors:
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Tidewater Community College
Associate's degree programMajors:
- Social Sciences, General
Benedict College
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Law
Minors:
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Career
Dream career field:
Hospital & Health Care
Dream career goals:
Healthcare Policy Analyst: Health Psychology: Patient Safety and Advocacy
CEO and Founder
A’YIM Organically For Problematic Skin2024 – Present1 yearAddiction Prevention & Treatment Certification of Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Department of Counseling and Human Services2017 – Present8 yearsOrganization and Management in Health Management
Peregrine Global2025 – Present6 monthsAcademic Excellence, Advocacy Work, Research, Philanthropy
Tau Upsilon Alpha Society2018 – Present7 yearsHuman Services Certification
Department of Counseling and Human Services2017 – Present8 years
Sports
Kickboxing
2008 – Present17 years
Research
Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) — Interviewer and Researcher: Investigating the Effects of NAMI Support Groups on Members’ Mental Health Outcomes, Social Connections, and Coping Strategies2019 – 2019Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
Narcotic Anonymous (NA) — Observer/Researcher/Data Collection/Member Experiences2018 – 2018Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
Obesity Anonymous (OA) — Objective Observation: Research Focus Areas: Ethical Considerations; Data Collection2018 – 2018Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
Alcohol Anonymous (AA) — Observer/Researcher: Collected Data on Meeting Dynamics, Member Experiences, and Program Outcomes2018 – 2018Community Organization and Advocacy
Teens With A Purpose — Research Intern: Conducted Studies on the Impact of TWP’s Programs on Youth Development, Community Involvement, and Social Change2018 – 2021
Public services
Public Service (Politics)
CPR Certification — Demonstrates commitment by being prepared in emergency situations and potentially save lives.2025 – PresentVolunteering
Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore — Quality Assurance2013 – 2019Volunteering
Project Homeless Connect Norfolk, VA — Intake Registration & Client Navigation2014 – 2019Volunteering
Meals on Wheels of Chesapeake Inc. — Client Visitor2014 – 2019Volunteering
Teens With A Purpose — Youth Coordinator2018 – 2021