Celebrating Kia Redwine’s GSMA Life Membership Award

By Marilyn Ogunfowora

In April, KSU Community and Professional Education (CPE) Healthcare Program Manager Nikal "Kia" Redwine, MPA, RN, BSN, CMA (AAMA), accepted the Georgia Society of Medical Assistants (GSMA) Life Membership Award at the 67th Annual GSMA Conference.

This honor recognizes individuals the GSMA Executive Board and past presidents unanimously agree have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to advancing the medical assisting credential and profession. Several years have passed since the award was last presented, and we are proud that Kia is this year's recipient.

On the day of the award ceremony, Kia entered the conference center to find her mentor already on stage, speaking about a member in the room who was "always busy, volunteered across multiple organizations, and was very passionate about the Medical Assisting profession and the professional growth of those around them."

Kia had no idea the person being described was her.

The nomination had been kept secret. The GSMA leadership had long wanted to present the award but waited for a meaningful milestone: the completion of Kia's Master of Public Administration degree, so her full credentials would be reflected when she received the award.

As KSU CPE's Healthcare Program Manager, Kia oversees the University's Medical Assisting (MA) program, preparing students for careers in one of healthcare's fastest-growing fields. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for medical assistants is projected to grow 23% in the state of Georgia through 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. Demand in Georgia continues to outpace the national average as healthcare systems expand outpatient and ambulatory services.

Medical assistants play a vital role in healthcare organizations by providing both clinical and administrative support. Their versatility makes them valuable members of healthcare teams across a variety of settings.

KSU's Medical Assisting program prepares students for these opportunities and allows graduates to pursue the national credential that best aligns with their career goals. Upon completion, students may sit for certification exams including the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA, AAMA), Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), or National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA).

Behind that preparation is a team of experienced healthcare professionals dedicated to student success. As a nationally recognized healthcare leader and recipient of the GSMA Life Membership Award, Kia brings decades of professional experience, industry connections, and a passion for education to KSU CPE's healthcare programs.

She supports students with the same dedication she has shown throughout her career and volunteer service. When asked what she hopes students take away from the Medical Assisting program, she shared:

"I hope students see that they can have an amazing, rewarding, and productive career. I've been able to volunteer on the local, state, and national levels. I have attended some of the most informative conferences across the state and across the country, where I continue to learn cutting-edge information within the healthcare field from prominent professionals. The medical assisting professionals that I have had the privilege to work with are phenoms in their fields. I hope each student is afforded a career that is as purpose-driven and rewarding as I have had the opportunity to enjoy."

For students entering the KSU Medical Assisting program, Kia's career serves as more than a resume of accomplishments.

It offers a roadmap for what is possible through dedication, service, and lifelong learning. Her recognition by GSMA reflects the high standard she sets for herself and the example she brings to the program every day.