National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Spotlight
In recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, the Florida A&M University School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (SJGC) is proud to spotlight alumna Vanessa Ferguson, a 2022 public relations graduate who is a fierce advocate for advancing public health, women’s health, and HIV/AIDS education, awareness, and community empowerment.
Ferguson serves as a community engagement coordinator for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF)—a longtime supporter of students and the greater FAMU community through its sponsorship activities, such as SJGC’s annual Grads Are Back event. At AHF, she coordinates special initiatives, educational events, and outreach activities that encourage individuals to access benefits and services for HIV testing, prevention, and treatment. Her commitment to advocating for others is also demonstrated in her upcoming pursuit of a master’s degree in public health.
During her time at FAMU, she was deeply involved in student media, leadership, and advocacy. It was on “The Hill” where she began developing the storytelling and communications skills that shaped her passion for health advocacy and community impact. She wrote community-driven stories and managed branding for The FAMUAN student newspaper. She also served with the Student Government Association, the National Council of Negro Women, Planned Parenthood Generation Action, and the Women’s Student Union.
SJGC had the opportunity to connect with Ferguson about her journey, her commitment to public health, and how her time on campus prepared her to serve communities with purpose.
SJGC: What inspired your desire to use the PR and media skills you learned at SJGC to advocate, educate, and empower others?
Ferguson: My passion for using PR and media to advocate, educate, and empower others grew organically during my time at Florida A&M University. SJGC gave me a unique perspective on storytelling—not just how to communicate effectively, but how to present stories in visually engaging ways that inspire action. While covering community issues, supporting campus initiatives, and focusing on public health and reproductive issues, my passion for advocacy was sparked. I realized media and PR are more than messaging; they are powerful tools for change. Seeing how the right story can shift perspectives, spark conversation, and mobilize communities inspired me to use these skills to amplify voices.
SJGC: What or who inspired you to join AHF, and why is this work important to you?
Ferguson: Being a champion for Black women and spreading awareness around sexual health is what inspired me to join AHF. This role allows me to continue the work I started at Florida A&M, where my passion for public health and community advocacy really took shape.
SJGC: For National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, what does AHF want communities to understand about education, testing, treatment, and reducing stigma?
Ferguson: We at AIDS Healthcare Foundation want to remind our communities that sexual health and knowing your status matter. When we don’t take charge of our sexual health or know our status, it can create a domino effect, impacting not only ourselves but our partners and communities as well. By reducing stigma and supporting one another, our community can stay healthy, empowered, and strong. I would like to see more conversations and doctors talking openly about PrEP so Black communities can stay healthy and reduce stigma around prevention.
SJGC: Why is it important for SJGC scholars to know they can use their skills to better the community in meaningful ways?
Ferguson: SJGC scholars realizing the impact of their skills is exciting and empowering. By using their talents, they can raise awareness, inspire change, and make a real difference in their community. “No one is you, that is your power,” a mantra I live by, reminds us that our unique perspective is exactly what makes our work stand out and truly transformative.
SJGC: What’s next for you as you continue your work in this space?
Ferguson: I definitely plan to pursue a Master of Public Health. Continuing my education is important to me, and I see it as a next step in growing my impact in this field.
