“I am a dedicated and passionate person about making a difference—not only in my community, but in the world,” says Edith Lawrence-Hilliard. “Volunteerism is one of my great loves and being active in my community is a real privilege for me. I am committed.”
Lawrence-Hilliard is a lifelong Madison resident who works to uplift marginalized voices in health, education, and civic life. She champions African American youth, family caregivers, and health equity—serving both as a research participant and a trusted community advisor.
Since 2016, Lawrence-Hilliard has been a valued member of the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing’s Community Advisors for Research Design and Strategies (CARDS), providing input to researchers. She serves on the Center for Aging Research and Education (CARE) advisory committee and has contributed to multiple CARE initiatives. She provides mentorship to nursing students through telehealth and classroom engagement. She also participates in the UW–Madison Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention (WRAP) and African Americans Fighting Alzheimer’s in Midlife.
Beyond campus, she is a beloved volunteer with Olbrich Gardens, Friends of Monona Terrace, Women in Focus, Goodman Community Center, and NewBridge Madison, among other organizations.
For her remarkable service, the UW–Madison School of Nursing recently named Lawrence-Hilliard as the third recipient of its Canary Savage Girardeau Award for Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Named in honor of the School of Nursing’s first African American alumnus, the award recognizes exceptional contributions to advancing health equity through inclusive nursing education, research, practice, and policy. It reflects the School’s continued commitment to improving health for all.
“Edith has earned the respect and gratitude of those for whom and with whom she serves,” says Barb King, PhD, RN, FAAN, a professor at the UW–Madison School of Nursing and Co-Executive Director of CARE.
“Edith’s experience of providing care to her mother, as her mother was living with dementia, inspired her to become involved with initiatives to support caregivers and advance health equity,” adds King. “She volunteers with the WRAP study, the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center’s Precious Memories Choir, and the organization Memory Collectors.”
“Research is a way to give to the community,” explains Lawrence-Hilliard. “I see the passion on both sides,” she adds, referring to researchers and community members. “I think you will have a better program, a better research study when there is that synergy, that energy of working together with and for community.”
In addition to participating in research, Lawrence-Hilliard shares the information and insights she gains with others.
“My involvement in CARDS helps me do outreach,” she says. “As an African American, I know that Black and brown people do not generally want to be part of research. I highlight how important it is for us to participate. I feel like I am able to share because I am known and trusted.”
“I have learned so much,” says Lawrence-Hilliard. “I really believe we are making a difference in the lives of people, especially Black and brown people. I feel privileged to be part of knowing this information and helping researchers. But again, to be able to put it out there, so others can know what is going on, too—that is a real blessing!”
–Diane Farsetta