The Alabama State University Health Services commemorated Women’s History Month by highlighting the importance of mental health and wellbeing during its SheCare Wellness Pods event, March 28, at 11 a.m.
The event featured a special appearance by Bern Nadette Stanis, an African-American actress and author who is best known for her role as “Thelma Evans” on the CBS sitcom “Good Times” (1974–1979). Stanis is the only daughter of Florida and James Evans Sr. and was the first Black teenage girl to be in a television series.
Held behind Bessie Benson Residence Hall, near the ShePods, under clear skies, the event blended inspiration, self-care, and community in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Stanis delivered an empowering message rooted in her personal experiences and family values. She encouraged students to stay focused despite external challenges and to believe in their potential.
“Well, I grew up with my father saying to us, ‘What’s around you, does not have to be in you. And with education and determination, there is no place in the world that you cannot go,’” she said. “There’s a lot of things that may be thrown at you, but if you keep your eye on the prize … you will get there.”
Stanis continued her heartfelt message by emphasizing resilience and the importance of self-forgiveness.
“We all make mistakes, but you must understand that mistakes are not you… Don’t let anything hold you back. Nothing!”
Senior Director of Health Services Joyce Loyd-Davis, DNP, set the tone for the day by reflecting on the intersection of women’s history and mental health.
“So, today at Alabama State University, we are celebrating women’s history and mental wellbeing,” Loyd-Davis said. “We understand, Ms. Bern Nadette understands, and I understand, as a history maker myself, that on that journey, it comes with ups and downs … When you’re speaking up and fighting for what’s right and trying to shatter glass ceilings, you have to take self-care as well.”
The event also received strong support from the university’s leadership. University board of trustees member Delbert Madison praised the thoughtful planning behind the initiative and purchased 10 copies of Stanis’ book so that students in attendance could have them signed.
“I thank you all so much for being here,” Madison said. “On behalf of the entire board, we think this is phenomenal.”
Students echoed that enthusiasm, expressing gratitude for both the event and the opportunity to hear from Stanis firsthand.
“It is really nice, and I’m happy that we did it on such a lovely day, too,” Ciara Mercer, a sophomore accounting major said. “I just love learning about new ways to protect my mental energy… and getting my book signed by Ms. BernNadette! Like that’s so cool, I was a little starstruck!”
Charity Stephens, a sophomore studying elementary education, noted the uplifting atmosphere of the event.
“Everybody is in such high spirits and it’s a beautiful day outside. We’re just enjoying the presence of such a monumental person in history,” she said. “More students should have come out. This event really helps you think about how you feel and how that affects how you do things.”
Shanna Moss, a forensic biology sophomore, found the event both enjoyable and motivating.
“I’m excited to learn what Ms. Stanis has gone through in her life and how she’s gotten to her successful career,” Moss said. “When I see other women who are powerful and so positive, it makes me want to go harder.”
Senior psychology major Amilha Broadnax emphasized the value of having a figure like Stanis speak on campus.
“Having a woman that is very successful in this world, in this industry, come to our school and speak real-life, realistic wisdom into these young ladies is amazing,” Broadnax said.
Guests were treated to a variety of wellness activities including journaling sessions and guided breathing exercises. Free Girl Scout cookies, donated by Karlyn Edmonds, Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts Southern Alabama, added a sweet touch to the event.
To add to the excitement, three lucky participants walked away with free Kate Spade bags from a raffle.