USC Upstate BAC

Nykia Janay Henderson (‘10) a dedicated nurse educator whose passion for healthcare extends beyond the bedside and into the classroom. A graduate of USC Upstate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Nykia has spent the past 15 years serving patients while preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals for success.

Nykia currently serves as the RN Clinical Unit Educator at Spartanburg Medical Center, where she oversees onboarding and education for new operating room staff and coordinates clinical experiences for nursing students, Certified Surgical Technologist students, and perfusion specialists.

Nykia knew from an early age that she wanted to become a nurse, and USC Upstate provided the foundation to turn that dream into reality. She credits the university’s faculty, collaborative learning environment, study groups, tutoring, and clinical experiences with shaping the nurse and educator she is today. The opening of the Health Education Complex further enriched her education through hands-on learning and simulation-based training, preparing her to confidently step into clinical practice and, years later, mentor those following in her footsteps.

During her time at Upstate, Nykia was deeply engaged across campus as a member of IMPACT, a Resident Advisor, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, Freshman Orientation, Advisement & Registration, Leadership Advance, the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and as an Admissions Work Study Student. For Nykia, staying connected is about ensuring today’s students see what is possible.

She believes that when current students see alumni thriving in their careers and giving back to the university, they’re inspired to earn their degrees, remain connected, and continue building the legacy for generations to come.

#ForUsForUpstate 💚🖤