Meet Erica Brooks | MPH, BSN, RN, CEN

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Brooks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
I believe the most important impact I’ve had is leading by example—demonstrating perseverance, commitment to education, and strong moral values. I strive for success in my own life, showing my child that hard work and dedication pay off. By continuing my education, I emphasize the importance of lifelong learning and growth.

In addition to academics and career goals, I encourage my teenager to approach the sports he enjoys with integrity, discipline, and teamwork—qualities that will serve him beyond athletics. I instill the values of resilience, respect, and accountability, ensuring they develop both as a strong athlete and a well-rounded individual.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey in healthcare has been shaped by service, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to education and leadership. I have had the privilege of serving in two military branches—first as a combat medic in the Army and later as a corpsman in the Navy. These experiences instilled in me discipline, adaptability, and the importance of providing exceptional care under pressure.

Before becoming an emergency nurse, I worked as an EMT and dispatcher, gaining firsthand experience in crisis management and rapid decision-making. Over the years, I’ve developed expertise in interventional radiology, vascular procedures, PICC, rapid response, and emergency medicine. My true passion, however, lies in educating those in the healthcare field—ensuring that the next generation of providers is equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality patient care.

Currently, I serve as a nurse manager, a role I consider one of the best of my life. I embrace transformational leadership, empowering my team to excel while fostering an environment of innovation and compassion. Alongside my professional responsibilities, I am a BLS instructor, traveling to schools and daycares to equip individuals with lifesaving skills.

Education has always been at the core of my journey. I hold a Master of Public Health, a Bachelor’s in Nursing, and I am a Certified Emergency Nurse. Now, as I pursue my doctorate in healthcare administration, my dissertation focuses on vaccine hesitancy in African American communities and breaking down barriers to healthcare access.

Beyond my career, I believe in giving back and uplifting others. As a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., I live by the values of scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood. I also love to read and am currently working on my own book, furthering my mission to educate and inspire.

My story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose. Success hasn’t come easy—I’ve faced challenges, from rigorous military training to balancing work, education, and personal growth. But through it all, I have remained steadfast in my belief that hard work, integrity, and a commitment to excellence will always lead to success. Most importantly, I choose happiness every day, living life to the fullest and making a meaningful impact in every role I take on.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable experience filled with great food, adventure, and relaxation. We’d start with a welcome dinner at Morton’s, my favorite steakhouse, followed by drinks at a rooftop lounge to catch up. The next day, we’d kick things off with brunch before heading to an escape room for some excitement, then wind down with a cozy game night at home filled with home-cooked food and laughter. For some outdoor fun, we’d spend a day swimming at a luxury pool, enjoying fresh seafood and cocktails, followed by dinner at a lively spot with live music. The next night would be all about letting loose, starting with a soul food brunch, exploring local museums or markets, and ending with karaoke and dancing. Midweek, we’d add a little adventure, whether it’s a boat ride, hiking, or an amusement park, followed by a spa day to relax and recharge. One evening, we’d stay in and cook a homemade meal together, trying new recipes while sipping wine and enjoying music before another game night or movie marathon. On the final day, we’d wrap up the trip with a farewell brunch at a scenic restaurant, and if time allowed, we’d squeeze in some last-minute sightseeing or shopping before heading to the airport.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.