Giving Back Where It Began

Chezlynn Chinavare’s career as a nurse and nurse practitioner is a testament to the flexibility and opportunity the profession provides. Jackson College played a pivotal role in helping her reach new heights — and now she’s come full circle, giving back as an instructor.

Her path began at Monroe County Community College, where she earned her associate degree in nursing and became a registered nurse (RN). After working at a local hospital for a few years, she launched her own business — an assisted living facility in Monroe — combining her nursing skills with entrepreneurship.

After moving to the Irish Hills area, Chinavare decided to continue her education and pursue her goal of becoming a nurse practitioner. The University of Michigan offered a program that allowed her to transfer associate-level credits toward a master’s degree. Thanks to Jackson College’s flexible course offerings and multiple locations, she was able to complete many of her classes close to home — saving time and money while balancing family life.

“It was wonderful, especially with kids at home and being on a budget,” she recalls. Jackson College also provided the opportunity to complete clinical rotations at the College’s Health Clinic, where she learned directly from a nurse practitioner. “When I was doing my clinical rotation, I met all the nursing faculty. They were so welcoming. I thought, ‘Oh, I want to do this!’”

After completing her master’s degree and becoming a nurse practitioner, Chezlynn decided to add teaching to her credentials. Today, she works as a nurse practitioner in orthopedics at Hillsdale Hospital while teaching part-time at Jackson College.

“Walking through the halls of Jackson College now as an instructor, after once being a student here myself, is incredibly meaningful,” she said. “I remember what it felt like to be in their shoes — full of hope, nerves, and big dreams. It’s an honor to now be part of their story and to give back to the place that helped shape mine.”

“I remember what it felt like to be in their shoes — full of hope, nerves, and big dreams. It’s an honor to now be part of their story and to give back to the place that helped shape mine.”