4 RNs honored as Fellows of Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing

Four UC Davis Health registered nurses have been named as Fellows of the Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing (ADLN).

The four individuals are:

• DaJanae Gresham-Ryde
• Aron King
• Sandy Phan
• Denise Angelo Prudencio

This honor recognizes their work in advancing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in nursing.

“We’re proud to see UC Davis Health represented among national leaders who are shaping the future of our profession with heart, purpose, and compassion, said Sabrina McKinney, director of nursing professional development and Center for Professional Practice Nursing. “I'm immensely proud of them all, what they bring to UC Davis, and how they advance DEI and lift up their communities.”

The National Black Nurses Association, Inc. (NBNA) established ADLN in 2024. According to NBNA’s website, “with the formation of this new fellowship academy, we seek to set a clear definition of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI) expertise. ADLN Fellowship status serves as a benchmark for and legitimization of the concept of JEDI excellence in nursing and healthcare.”

The four Fellows’ work as leaders in justice, equity, diversity and inclusion includes participating in a recent “Breaking Down Barriers” event and organizing the 5th Annual Breaking Down Barriers to Nursing Conference.

More about the four new Fellows

Gresham-Ryder is currently an East 3 Clinical Nurse 3 and the vice president of the Capitol City Black Nurses Association. Her nursing journey began at California State University, East Bay, where she mentored under Claire Valderama-Wallace. She recently earned her doctoral degree through Samuel Merritt University.

“A heartfelt thank you to my sponsor, Dr. Kupiri Ackerman, and mentors who inspired and believed in me throughout this process,” she said. “Above all, my community has helped me find my voice and continues to encourage me every step of the way.”

King is currently an East 3 Nurse Services Supervisor 2. Outside of UC Davis Health, he is the current historian and past secretary of CCBNA. Like Gresham-Ryder, King thanked Ackerman.

“A special thank you to Dr. Kupiri Ackerman, a powerful mentor who encouraged me to apply and graciously sponsored my application. Her continued support has been instrumental in my growth as a leader and scholar,” King said.

Phan is an NPD specialist at the Center for Professional Practice of Nursing. She is also the Chair of the Association for Nursing Professional Development DEI Committee and a board member for the Sacramento Sierra Nurse Leaders.

“As a first-generation Vietnamese American nurse, this work is deeply personal—and I’m honored to be part of a powerful community of nurse leaders driving systemic change across healthcare, policy, research, and education,” she said.

Prudencio is also an NPD specialist at the Center for Professional Practice of Nursing. Outside of the UC Davis Health, he is the vice president of the Philippine Nurses Association California Capital City.

“This Fellowship amplifies our shared commitment to inclusion and leadership,” Prudencio said. “Through education, mentorship, and advocacy, we can build a nursing workforce that truly represents the communities we serve—locally and globally.”

Congratulations to all four on this amazing achievement.