TRIBUTE TO NAZAMOVIA ADAMS-PHILLIPS

On 2026-06-09, Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO NAZAMOVIA ADAMS-PHILLIPS" in the Senate.

TRIBUTE TO NAZAMOVIA ADAMS-PHILLIPS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S2690-S2691] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO NAZAMOVIA ADAMS-PHILLIPS Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. President, today it is my honor to recognize Nazamovia Adams-Phillips, known to many as Naz. When Naz was deciding on a career, she knew she wanted to be a nurse: someone who cares for those who need it, nurtures the sick on their journey to better health, and helps people get more time to spend with their loved ones. For 40 years, Naz led a distinguished career as a nurse. And as an African-American woman, she is a pioneer, paving the way for other female nurses that look like her. Naz was born in Oxford, MS, in 1936. Her family later moved to Jackson, MI, where she attended Jackson High School and Jackson Community College. She studied at the Mercy School of Nursing of Detroit--Jackson Unit, where she was the program's first African- American graduate. Naz then worked at Mercy Medical Center in Ohio, where she was the second African-American nurse hired. During her tenure at the hospital, Naz served across multiple departments, including the operating room, recovery room, medical/surgical, and IV services. At the hospital, she dedicated herself to caring for patients and was a leader among her colleagues. Soon, she became the director of utilization review and quality assurance, establishing her as the first African-American department director. Naz's service extends to her faith and her family. Naz was also the first African American to chair the Mercy Medical Center's Mission and Philosophy Committee, meaning she also became the first African American to speak in the hospital chapel. Outside the hospital, Naz has been a steadfast member and leader at the Bethel CME Church for over 65 years. Naz is also a devoted wife and mother to 7 children, including my dear friend Ernest. She also proudly cares for her 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She has served as a guiding light within her community, especially to her family and friends. In all she does, Naz is strong-willed, dedicated, loyal, giving, and deeply God-fearing. This year, as we recognize Naz's 90th birthday, we also honor her decades of service to the people of Michigan, Ohio, and the entire Nation. It is my honor [[Page S2691]] to recognize Naz and her lifelong dedication to saving lives and taking action to make her community better. ____________________