Nicole Jenkins

At the start of her professional journey, Nicole Jenkins earned an associate degree in communications from St. Louis Community College and a bachelor’s degree in communications from Washington University in St. Louis. She went on to work at a private hospital for 14 years and before joining the Atlanta Veteran’s Affairs (VA) Medical Center and the Mercy Hospital Charity Clinic.

While working with the VA, Ms. Jenkins noticed many flaws within veteran health care services. Inspired to commence an organization to address these issues, she approached 36 potential investors. Among these investors were Mr. Lacy Clay and the late congressman John Lewis, who both willingly offered their help to establish her company. In 2019, she became the president and owner of Veterans Advantage Urgent Care, in which she has developed the business, from architecture and construction to the overall design and mission.

Upon reflection, Ms. Jenkins considers her most notable achievement, apart from establishing her own business, has been creating her own electronic records system with Silver Science with built-in artificial intelligence, for which she was honored by COI Magazine. Through this, she holds more than 100,000 veterans’ files and is able to work with doctors to best assess and treat their clients. Ms. Jenkins attributes her success to her education and perseverance, as well as the support and guidance of her family.

Looking toward the future, Ms. Jenkins aims to spearhead her own school for young girls living in impoverished neighborhoods hailing from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Aiming to help girls build the courage to pursue their aspirations, she intends to call it the “Courage School.” She also hopes to expand the Veterans Advantage Urgent Care business by opening 35 locations around the United States.

Creative Works: Featured, Mental Health Stories, YouTube

Civic: Member, LFLAJ Number 9 (dental mobile lab, proceeds for those who are in need); American Health Task Force (better healthcare for those who live in impoverish neighborhood with socioeconomic background); St. Louis College of Health Careers (medical assistance through student externships); Community Liaison, Sumner High School (provides scholarships to students); homeless veterans feeding program, Veterans Advantage Urgent Care (once a month feeding program)

 Awards: Winner, #1, COI Magazine (for the electronic records system with Silver Science with a built-in artificial intelligence)