In Memoriam: Gwendolyn Andrews, 1932-2025

Gwendolyn Andrews, the first nursing instructor at what is now Winston-Salem State University, passed away on March 10. She was 92 years old.

Andrews’ career in healthcare spanned four decades, working as a nurse, administrator, and educator. In 1953, Andrews was hired as the first nursing instructor for the new nursing program at Winston-Salem Teachers College in North Carolina. She went on to serve as acting dean of nursing.

Later in her career, Andrews became the first African American and the first nurse to serve on the board of directors for United Way in Forsyth County. She ultimately became the first African American vice president of nursing at North Carolina Baptist Hospital. She served in this capacity until her retirement in 1990.

Andrews received several awards for her ground-breaking contributions to the nursing profession. In 2007, she received the NAACP Medical Local Pioneer Award. In 2018, Winston-Salem State University named Andrews a “healthcare legend,” which is an annual recognition presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the health and wellness of the East Winston-Salem community.

A native of Mobile, Alabama, Andrews was a graduate of Tuskegee University.