Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Ramona Symonette.
Hi Dr. Ramona , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began my journey in healthcare over 20 years ago as a nurse, driven by a deep passion for service that was instilled in me growing up in Washington Park, Illinois. My early experiences in my community inspired me to dedicate my life to both health and advocacy.
Over the years, my nursing career has grown to include leadership, and I currently serve as the University City Lead Nurse. My desire to connect with the community on a deeper level led me to earn my Certified Community Health Worker (CHW) certificate on July 8, 2025. I now also serve as a Community Health Worker with the T.R.U.S.T. organization, which allows me to bridge healthcare and community outreach in a meaningful way.
Along the way, I’ve embraced leadership roles in school nursing, including serving as the President-Elect of the Suburban School Nursing Organization and as a member of the Missouri Association of School Nurses Policy Committee. My journey is fueled by my faith, my love for my community, and my commitment to advocacy, education, and holistic care.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not always been a smooth road. Balancing the demands of nursing, leadership, ministry, and family life has come with its challenges. There were times when pursuing higher education while raising my three sons and later supporting my grandchildren required sacrifice and perseverance.
Even before earning my Certified Community Health Worker certificate, I was already doing community health work because of my deep compassion for others. Stepping into official community health work roles meant learning to navigate new resources, connect with diverse populations, and advocate for community needs beyond the walls of the school system. Through faith, determination, and a passion for service, I’ve been able to turn those struggles into stepping stones that shaped the leader and advocate I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a professional, I am a nurse leader, ordained pastor, and community health worker dedicated to holistic care and advocacy. I specialize in school nursing leadership, community health outreach, and faith-based support, blending healthcare with spiritual guidance to meet the needs of individuals and families in my community.
I’m known for my deep compassion, commitment to service, and ability to bridge gaps between healthcare, education, and faith. What I’m most proud of is my lifelong dedication to uplifting my community—whether through nursing, ministry, or community health work—and the positive impact I’ve made on countless lives.
What sets me apart is my unique integration of professional healthcare expertise with spiritual leadership and community advocacy. This holistic approach allows me to serve not just the physical, but also the emotional and spiritual well-being of those I serve.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Finding a mentor and building a strong network has been essential in my journey. My advice is to be intentional about seeking relationships with people who inspire you and share your values. Don’t be afraid to reach out—whether it’s through professional organizations, community groups, or faith-based networks.
What has worked for me is staying active in professional associations like the Suburban School Nursing Organization, the Missouri Association of School Nurses, and the National Community Health Worker Organization. These platforms provide opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. Also, my faith community has been a powerful source of support and mentorship throughout my career.
Ultimately, mentorship is about mutual respect and genuine connection, so invest time in building trust and being open to both giving and receiving guidance.
The president of the T.R.U.S.T Organization has also served as a great mentor through his leadership and community efforts.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.trustestl.org
