Shawntay Rogers-Gadson accepts new position at Memorial Health University
With her new position, Port Gibson, Mississippi native Shawntay Rogers-Gadson is helping new mothers embrace the beauty and significance of breastfeeding.
The 2012 Alcorn State University graduate started her new role as a neonatal lactation counselor at Memorial Health University Monday, March 6 in Savannah, Georgia. Her duties include promoting breastfeeding and/or pumping in the university’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. She’s also responsible for implementing standard care and guidelines for assisting breastfeeding mothers and designing programs and projects in lactation and breastfeeding.
It was Gadson’s own breastfeeding experience with her son that sparked her interest in promoting the bonding experience with other mothers.
“My experience with breastfeeding was so positive that I felt all mothers should have this experience,” said Gadson. “My experience allowed me to bond with my son on a level that was unexplainable. Knowing that I was his source of nutrition gave me a joy and energy that kept me motivated. I want all mothers to know that their milk is the best source of nutrition for their babies.”
Research is a big part of Gadson’s job. In her findings, she discovered that a low percentage of African-American women breastfeed their babies. Because of this, she feels obligated to spread breastfeeding awareness to a broader audience.
“I realized that this career path was bigger than me. I want to support and encourage women to make informed decisions about how to feed their babies. This is a job that I feel can go way beyond the hospital. I am looking forward to making a difference in the community as well.”
This new journey that Gadson has set out on is one that she truly appreciates. It’s the perfect opportunity for her to embrace her love for caring for others.
“I have a tremendous sense of pride and achievement. It feels empowering to set out on a new journey that allows me to fulfill my passion for working with and helping people. There is no better feeling than working with a parent and newborn baby. I feel like I’m making a difference.”
