[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.

                          ____________________