Dr. Ngozi Ezike, who guided Illinois through COVID-19, speaks at Dominican University in River Forest – Chicago Tribune

Former Illinois Department of Public Health director Dr. Ngozi Ezike took the podium at Dominican University in River Forest to deliver a congratulatory speech to students in the annual Black Achievements Ceremony on April 25.

Ezike who stepped down from her role with IDPH in March focused her speech on the students abilities to succeed, resilience gained from difficult recent history and on making sure to remember those instrumental to their success. Many of those present were students in the graduating Class of 2022.

I am so proud of you, as I am of all the graduates, Ezike said. You literally are your ancestors wildest dreams. When you think back, it was only in the 19th century that it was illegal to teach Black people to read. You guys have gone well past that and are getting degrees. Maybe this is just one degree out of other degrees you are going to get. I just encourage you to continue being that example of Black excellence, breaking down doors and shattering glass ceilings, and also making room for people behind you to follow suit.

Ezike became the first Black woman to assume the role of IDPH director in the organizations 143-year history. A pediatrician and internist, Ezike spent more than 15 years with Cook County Health and also served as the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Centers medical director.

Ezikes COVID-19 briefings were a staple source of news for some Illinoisans throughout the pandemic, and she would often switch seamlessly from English to Spanish to make her addresses more accessible. She is also fluent in Swahili and French.

She recalled bringing her children to Dominican for Igbo lessons over the years, an experience she enjoyed thoroughly.

Routinely, religiously, we came here and they shared not just the language, but the culture of the Igbo people to make sure we could know the culture, pass it on to our children and make sure it persisted, Ezike said. Im so grateful for this university and this commitment to learning about the different histories of Black people and supporting the students who make this university their home.

Dominican listed 195 Black/African-American students in its fall 2021 enrollment statistics, making up 6.4% of the overall enrollment, and with 104 undergraduates making up 5% of the undergraduate population.

Ezike acknowledged that being a minority student in college can be difficult, saying it can be isolating.

On top of the global pandemic, which has been a mass casualty, traumatic event for everyone, whether youve lost loved ones or youve had livelihoods disrupted or the mental health challenges from the isolation or separation, Ezike said. Weve all endured so much. On top of that, weve gone through the pains of racial injustice. And I know you were active here in the protests in honor of Mr. George Floyd. So all of these things have formed your college career, and youve had to be super resilient.

On June 13, Ezike will take over in her new role as the president and chief executive officer of Sinai Chicago. She is also the first Black woman to be named to that position.

Recalling a conversation with a student from before the ceremony, Ezike encouraged students to maintain and continue to invest in the friendships they have formed while in school.

Treasure and nurture these tender relationships as well, Ezike said. These people... will hold you accountable to the principles that they know you hold dear.

She added that in the 30 years since she began college, many of her former roommates and housemates are still among her closest friends.

She noted that students should draw on the wisdom of their parents and grandparents, and always remember to make time for them, as they are the ones who will always have their best interest at heart.

Go here to see the original:

Dr. Ngozi Ezike, who guided Illinois through COVID-19, speaks at Dominican University in River Forest - Chicago Tribune