Vanderbilt Black Student Nurses Affinity Group
Vanderbilt University
About Vanderbilt Black Student Nurses Affinity Group
Founded in the 1990s by African American nursing students at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, the Black Student Nurses Affinity Group (BSNAG) has grown into an inclusive student organization dedicated to supporting the socio-cultural needs of nursing students. What began as a focused initiative to address the specific needs of African American nursing students has evolved into a welcoming community that embraces nursing students and nurses of all backgrounds who share a commitment to the organization's mission.
BSNAG is guided by a powerful principle: when individuals unite around a common goal, they develop heightened understanding, knowledge, and expertise to make meaningful differences in healthcare for communities across the nation. This philosophy drives the organization's work in advocacy, education, empowerment, and enrichment. The group demonstrates this commitment through organized activities, events, and meetings that foster genuine connection and professional growth among members.
The organization operates with complete openness and inclusivity, welcoming members regardless of age, color, creed, ability status, sexual orientation, lifestyle, nationality, race, religion, or gender. Membership remains available throughout the academic year and is ongoing, allowing students to maintain their connection to the community as they progress through their nursing programs. BSNAG provides access to valuable resources including scholarship information, exam preparation materials, and connections to the National Black Nurses Association.
Based at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in Nashville, Tennessee, BSNAG continues its legacy of supporting nursing students through peer mentorship and collaborative learning. Faculty advisors work alongside student leaders to ensure the organization remains responsive to member needs. By creating a supportive environment where students can explore advanced practice nursing roles and develop professional networks, BSNAG embodies Vanderbilt's commitment to health equity and nursing excellence.