Advocating for Underserved Communities
Witnessing the challenges faced by patients in under-resourced settings, particularly in Nigeria, inspired Chinomso “Chino” Nwozichi, PhD, RN, CMSRN, OCN®, FAAN, FAON, to become a voice for those patients who often go unheard.
I am inspired by the resilience of patients who face each day with courage.Chinomso “Chino” Nwozichi, PhD, RN, CMSRN, OCN®, FAAN, FAON
For Dr. Nwozichi, oncology nursing is more than a profession. It is a calling to bridge disparities, inspire hope, and contribute to a global movement for better cancer outcomes.
A strong desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families confronting cancer drew him to the specialty. Throughout the course of his career, Dr. Nwozichi has recognized the critical role of oncology nurses not only in administering treatment, but also in offering compassionate support, educating patients, and shaping policy and research.
Dr. Nwozichi is the founder of the Oncology Nursing Society of Nigeria, which seeks to strengthen the cancer care workforce and elevate the visibility and impact of oncology nurses in Africa. He mentors and provides training for oncology nurses in Nigeria and across Africa, leading initiatives to enhance oncology nursing capacity through fellowships and educational programs.
As an assistant professor of nursing at Kennesaw State University in Georgia, Dr. Nwozichi integrates current oncology science and culturally responsive teaching in his courses. His work to develop support resources for African immigrants facing cancer in the United States has opened important conversations around cultural stigma, health literacy, and equitable access.
Dr. Nwozichi’s research aims to improve patient-centered scheduling, follow-up, and survivorship planning. His work has contributed to the development and dissemination of the Time Toxicity Index, a conceptual framework designed to evaluate the burden of time-related treatment demands on patients with cancer.
In April 2025, Dr. Nwozichi was recognized at the 50th Annual ONS Congress® as the recipient of the Connie Henke Yarbro Excellence in Cancer Nursing Mentorship Award. He was also a recipient of the 2025 ONS Congress Scholarship, which allowed him the opportunity to present his research on the concept of time toxicity in cancer care, a growing concern in quality care delivery. This opportunity led to new collaborations and inspired future research directions.
Receiving the Connie Henke Yarbro award strengthened Dr. Nwozichi’s platform to mentor emerging nurse leaders, particularly within the African diaspora. He has been invited to speak at academic forums, participate in global nursing initiatives, and design mentorship programs aimed at building oncology nursing capacity in low- and middle-income countries.
“I am inspired by the resilience of patients who face each day with courage, and by the opportunity to be a steady source of support through their journey,” Dr. Nwozichi sad. “I find purpose in advocating for those who often go unheard, especially in underserved communities, and in mentoring the next generation of oncology nurses who will continue to transform cancer care.”
When we asked Dr. Nwozichi what his advice would be for other oncology nurses starting out, he shared that it is important to stay focused on your purpose and actively share your work.
Learn more about the Oncology Nursing Foundation ONS Congress® Scholarship and the Connie Henke Yarbro Excellence in Cancer Nursing Mentorship Award.