Sonya Franklin has joined the Cleveland State Community College Nursing Department. Ms. Franklin was hired as a nursing instructor.
Ms. Franklin is a graduate of Black Hawk Community College where she received her associate degree in Nursing, the University of Illinois at Chicago where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, as well as the University of Phoenix, where she received her Master of Science degree, also in Nursing.
“I think I’m here for a reason. I hope I have a lot to offer,” said Ms. Franklin. “I got my start at a community college and I would definitely recommend it to others to start at a community college. It’s all foundational. In nursing, it’s all about foundation. You
have to start somewhere before you can grow. It usually takes a while to figure out what it is you want to do, and a community college is a great environment to do that. Every learning experience that you have helps develop who you are.”
Prior to accepting the position at CSCC, Ms. Franklin served as nurse supervisor for the Department of Health in Rhea County. She also serves as a Basic Life Support CPR Instructor for the American Heart Association and is also a member of the Tennessee Public Health Association.
In her spare time, Ms. Franklin enjoys spending time with husband of 12 years, Kevin and their children, Justeen Franklin, 21, Jared Smith, 20, Hannah Franklin, 18, Julius Smith, 18, Garrett Smith, 16, and Casey Franklin, 16. They are active members of Graysville Church of God where Ms. Franklin sings in the choir and is involved in the Children’s ministry and Vacation Bible School.
Nancy LaBine, CSCC Dean of Health/Wellness and Nursing, said, “We are very pleased to have Sonya as a member of our team here in the Nursing Department.”
Ms. Franklin said, “I really like it at CSCC so far. The staff have been so welcoming and extremely supportive, which makes a big difference. I would not be here had it not been for the support of my husband and our kids. They, too, have been very supportive of me pursuing this.”