Millennium Magazine_5th Ed

227 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine A fter Gwendolyn J. Hollinquest’s younger brother was diagnosed with Reye’s syndrome, she dedicated herself to being his caretaker. From caring for her brother, Ms. Hollinquest knew she wanted a career in which she could help people, and in 1986, she became a registered nurse through Santa Monica College. Later in 2005, she received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix. Ms. Hollinquest is now a certified diabetic nurse, oncology nurse and wound care nurse. Beginning as a nurse’s aide in 1967, before her retirement, Ms. Hollinquest was a nurse at the Hubert Humphrey Comprehensive Health Center and at the Delano Prison System from 2009 to 2011. From 1986 to 2009, she worked at the Veteran Administration Hospital, now called the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. From 1980 to 1986, she worked at the Daniel Freeman Marina Hospital, now known as the Marina Del Rey Hospital. While working at the VA Hospital, Ms. Hollinquest created an instructional method for patients to follow prior to colonoscopy examinations, which improved the efficiency of the examination by 90%. She received an achievement award from the hospital for this pivotal contribution, along with numerous other accolades for her impressive skills. Ms. Hollinquest attributes her career success to simply having a caring personality. Ms. Hollinquest credits Ms. Maureen Brown for inspiring her to pursue a nursing career. Ms. Brown was the only African American instructor at Santa Monica College, and she took Ms. Hollinquest under her wing and encouraged her to be the best she could be. From her, Ms. Hollinquest learned the true meaning of her motto “Learn to empathize with people.” Ms. Hollinquest is a member of the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates and is a life member of the University of Phoenix Alumni Association. In her retirement, Ms. Hollinquest spends time volunteering in senior centers and enjoys traveling. GWENDOLYN J. HOLLINQUEST REGISTERED NURSE (RETIRED) Hubert Humphrey Clinic, Delano Prison System Inglewood, CA HEALTH AND WELLNESS