Daileann Hemmings ’06, ‘11 is a shining example of passion and perseverance and has a remarkable journey in the field of nursing. Her story begins with a deep-rooted connection to health care that started in middle school. Inspired by her mother, who worked as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), Hemmings set her heart on working with newborns. This journey led her to a health professions program in high school, where her desire to become a registered nurse (RN) took root.
After earning her RN at then Capital Community College, Hemmings came to UHart for the RN-BSN program and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2006 from the College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions (ENHP), with a sight set on a career as a travel nurse. Because of her preparedness at UHart, she went on to have jobs and gain valuable experience at renowned institutions that include Yale, Hartford Hospital, and Johns Hopkins. When at UHart, Hemmings found a mentor and friend in Karen Breda, associate professor of nursing, who recognized the potential and encouraged her to further her nursing education. With the support of a scholarship, Hemmings embarked on a new chapter in her educational journey.
Her pursuit of a master’s degree brought Hemmings deeper into the world of community and public health Hemmings was first introduced to Project Horizon during undergrad. Her involvement in this community outreach initiative was transformative, opening her eyes to the importance of neighborhood engagement and research. This experience kindled the passion Hemmings had for the community and revealed the importance of treating communities as “experts in their own right.” Her work in community health involved providing education and support to underserved populations, which she found deeply rewarding. Hemmings completed her Master of Science in Community and Public Health in 2011 as part of ENHP’s Master of Science in Nursing Program.
Hemmings says her time at UHart played a pivotal role in shaping her career. She found unceasing support and encouragement on campus, particularly from Breda. “UHart provided an environment where I felt heard and could thrive,” she says. Additionally, Hemmings had the opportunity to broaden her horizons through travel and study abroad, particularly in Australia during her MSN. There, she learned how vital the need was for promoting women’s health, reproductive health, and preventative education internationally.
Teaching also became an integral part of Hemmings’s journey. UHart’s investment in her education enabled her to give back to the community as part of the advisory board and as an adjunct professor for Project Horizon. She used her knowledge and experience to contribute to the development of others.
Daileann Hemmings ’06, ‘11, Program Director, Hartford HeathCare's Maternal Health Equity Women’s Ambulatory Health ServicesUnderstanding the dire state of maternal health and learning early maternal warning signs may save your life or the life of someone you love. Also, it is important to be yourself and be open to continuously learning. Fail forward because it means you tried and you can grow from experience—and to try not to lose who you are in your work particularly, if what you do is taxing, give yourself grace.
ENHP at UHart played a significant role in her career development; Hemmings came back to host a maternal health event in October for UHart students with a viewing of Aftershock, a film about the maternal health crisis. This event ignited discussions on disparities in health care and the systems that affect outcomes, emphasizing the importance of addressing these disparities across all fields intentionally. The event saw a significant turnout of not only students and professors but also of campus leaders, including Provost Black, ENHP Dean Thompson and Christine Grant, Assistant Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Community Engagement. With leaders being present the entire time, “it showed how committed and engaged the leaders at UHart are,” says Hemmings.
“The University of Hartford is more than an institution,” Hemmings says. “It's a place with a deep familial connection. My sister Cassandra Collier also graduated from UHart; my father Garfield Miller works there and supported our education.” Her daughter, too, had a UHart experience at The Hartt School. For her family, UHart is not just a university; it's a home that has shaped her and her family's experiences.
Daileann is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a focus in Healthcare Leadership, Systems and Policy at Yale University, expected graduation May 2024.
The journey that Hemmings has taken is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and education, and how they can lead to a fulfilling career and meaningful contributions to the community. Now, the Program Director of Maternal Health Equity at Hartford Hospital, she offers this advice and encouragement to those who may follow in her footsteps: “Understanding the dire state of maternal health and learning early maternal warning signs may save your life or the life of someone you love. Also, it is important to be yourself and be open to continuously learning. Fail forward because it means you tried and you can grow from experience—and to try not to lose who you are in your work particularly, if what you do is taxing, give yourself grace.”