Qierra Brockman, PhD Candidate (she/her/hers)

Graduate Program/Research: Molecular Medicine; I research epigenetic mechanisms of cancer metastasis using novel CRISPR/Cas9 murine tumorigenesis models

What does Black History Month mean to you?

While completing my BA in Biology, I became fascinated with the intersectionalities between religion and medicine as well as the similarities in rituals/doctrine between varying religions. Intention was a unifying theme that came up regularly. Black history and Black Lives matter every day. Black History Month is a time for me to be intentional about reconnecting with my culture and people's history. 

Please share an accomplishment that you are proud of?

I'm extremely proud of where I am now. Throughout my PhD journey it's been easy to get caught up in what's the next step, the next thing I must complete, the next application deadline. The last year has taught me to be proud of where I am now knowing all that I've overcome. Knowing that I continue to face every day and every challenge with the ability to make it to the other side gives me strength.

Micah Johnson, PhD Candidate (she/her/hers)

Specialty/research area (Post-Doc/resident/fellow): electrical mechanisms underlying migraine and depression (Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics and Psychiatry)

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month, to me, means a time of being intentional about celebrating those who came before me and fought for the rights that have allowed me to become successful. From Harriet Tubman to my grandmother, who fought against a segregated community in Arkansas to become a special education teacher, I’ve always looked up to heroes from the past to inspire me to keep making a positive impact in the present. The Black History Month 2021 theme, “Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity” acknowledges the sacrifices of my ancestors while reminding me that representation is one of the key catalysts of change. Therefore, I continue to strive to accomplish the unthinkable not only for myself but for others who look like me or have unique identities.  

Please share an accomplishment that you are proud of?

I am most proud of being the first in my family to be accepted into a PhD program. As a leader, I am proud of how much I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone and become more involved in changing the cultural climate at UIowa. In terms of personal development, I am proud of the progress I’ve made with becoming more comfortable with communicating my wants/needs and asking others for help.  

Nolan Mattingly, MD Candidate (he/him/his)  

Graduation year: 2023 

What does Black History Month mean to you? 

It’s well understood that Black History Month is a reserved time to recollect both the challenges and accomplishments of the African American populace. A survey of this rich history provides a source of pride for many, with its narratives of unparalleled perseverance and excellence within the African American community. And while these stated aspects are indeed integral to this cherished time, I believe its function extends beyond such. Black History Month also demands genuine introspection within all Americans, as well as a continuing audit of our contemporary social configuration. In addition to celebrating the historical achievements of prevailing African Americans, it serves as a reminder of the necessary progress that has yet to come, and it stimulates, impels, and forges the next generation of leaders to hopefully make history in their own right. 

Please share an accomplishment that you are proud of? 

My journey into medicine was a tumultuous one; it took years to find the necessary mentorship and guidance needed of pursuing a career in medicine. Identifying the official (and unofficial) requirements of reaching medical school was primarily a result of watching and emulating my more well-informed peers. And even then, it was clearly evident that I was not functioning with nearly the same means, support, or network. As I began applying, I often found myself to be the only Black individual in several interview sessions. A review of the daunting achievements and resources required to reach this stage, in combination with the historical disadvantages of African Americans, made this social dynamic unsurprising. My years of learning from behind pushed me to establish The Mattingly Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) organization that works to provide mentorship and financial assistance to African Americans pursuing a career in medicine (www.themattinglyfoundation.org). To date, this foundation has raised $5k to assist minorities with MCAT and application fees, as well as interview related expenses. Furthermore, the foundation has hosted a few virtual instructional and networking events aimed at connecting undergraduates to medical students and doctors that can serve as mentors throughout their journey into medicine.