Jitana Benton-Lee, Ph.Dc., DNP, MSN, MBA-HC, NEA-BC, CNE
Dr. Benton-Lee holds multiple degrees in nursing, healthcare, and business administration. She is a Qualified Administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory, Nurse Executive Advance-Board Certified, Certified Nurse Educator, and Apple Certified Educator. Her expertise has earned her numerous awards and fellowships, including the 2019 Emerging Leader Award from the Kentucky Organization of Nurse Leaders.
As a passionate advocate for health equity, Dr. Benton-Lee focuses on improving access to healthcare and education for rural African Americans and the deaf and hearing-impaired communities. Her work has been recognized by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, CommonHealth Action, and the National Collaborative for Health Equity, which awarded her $95,000 to build a culture of health in Kentucky.
Dr. Benton-Lee is an active leader in various professional organizations. She serves as Past-President of the Rho Theta chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International and United Nations Liaison. Additionally, she is a former Commissioner with the Lexington Human Rights Commission and holds roles in the American Nurses Association, Health Equity Leadership & Exchange Network, Southern Nurses Research Society, and more.
As an educator, Dr. Benton-Lee teaches leadership, epidemiology, vulnerable populations, and health equity/inclusion to doctoral-level nursing students. She has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished Educator and inducted into the Association of American Colleges & Universities' Future Leader Society.
Dr. Benton-Lee's commitment to healthcare equity and inclusive environments has made a significant impact on the nursing profession and beyond. Her dedication to advancing health equity and inclusive environments continues to inspire and empower others to join her in this critical mission.