Cooke Scholar Service: Efua Duma Panyin Crentsil
Cooke Scholars and Alums are making a difference—not just in their careers, but in their communities. This blog series celebrates Scholars who volunteer their time to causes and communities close to their hearts. Whether mentoring young people, organizing community events, serving on boards, or supporting neighbors in need, these alums show that service is a powerful extension of leadership. Each blog will offer a glimpse into the unique ways Cooke Scholars continue to give back.
Hi efua! Would you mind introducing yourself?
Hello! My name is Efua Duma Panyin Crentsil, and I'm excited to share my journey with you. A proud graduate of the Cooke Foundation, I started my academic path as a 2015 Undergraduate Transfer Scholar and later became a Graduate Scholar in 2020. My educational background includes an Associate degree in Science from Schoolcraft College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minor in Women's Studies from Pennsylvania State University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice specializing in Family Nurse Practice from Georgetown University. Currently, I am based in Northern Virginia, where I continue to grow both personally and professionally in the nursing field.
What kind of volunteering or community work do you do and what is the name of the organization?
I am a member of the Renew Life Worship Center Healthcare Team. We visit different churches in the area to teach members first aid and how to use defibrillators. Since earning my Doctorate in Nursing Practice and graduating as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have collaborated with the organization's leadership to present various health talks to local religious groups, especially those with a majority of immigrants.
what inspired you to get involved?
I believe in the importance of preventative health measures. Often, due to various factors, healthcare practitioners focus more on curative processes, leaving little room to educate patients about preventative strategies that could enhance their quality of life.
What has surprised or impacted you most about your experience?
What surprised me most was the turnout and the eagerness of people to learn more about their health and bodies.
How do you balance service with work or other responsibilities?
I am intentional about dedicating time to this service.
What advice would you give to someone looking to get more involved?
All it takes is reaching out to the right people and expressing your interest in getting involved. Connecting with the right individuals means discussing the service you are passionate about. Most importantly, every opportunity counts, and you make a huge difference.