Leadership Team

Zacnite Vargas, President

Zacnité Vargas, an immigrant Latina from Mexico who graduated with distinction in Nursing from Trevecca Nazarene University. Throughout my career, I have passionately championed immigrant rights, notably defending DACA at the U.S. Supreme Court and advocating for tuition equality in Tennessee. My journey began as a pediatric nurse at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital, where I addressed healthcare challenges for immigrant families. My dedication continued through community health initiatives at Siloam Health.

In 2021, I founded Tennessee's chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN), fostering solidarity among Hispanic healthcare professionals. Currently, as the Partnership Coordinator at the Metro Nashville Health Department, I advance equitable healthcare for underserved populations, driven by my unwavering commitment to advocacy and leadership.

My most recent project was being a featured co-author in Latinas in Nursing Book - the first of its kind. Latinas in Nursing shared the compelling stories of influential Latina nurses across the United States, highlighting their challenges, triumphs, and resilience.

Tania Alvarenga, Treasurer

Since high school, my interest in healthcare has been unwavering driven by its profound ability to positively impact people’s lives. In 2020, I achieved my dream and became an LPN. Since then, my commitment to healthcare has only strengthened. Currently pursuing my BSN, I am dedicated to expanding my knowledge and skills to better serve our Hispanic community.

My first experiences in healthcare stemmed from living in El Salvador with a diabetic grandmother and later living in the U.S with a grandmother with chronic pancreatitis. These lived experiences emphasized the critical need for education and quality care within our community. This drove me to join NAHN from the outset. My goal is to educate and provide compassionate, high-quality care to empower Hispanic individuals and families.

Beyond my professional pursuits, I find joy in my pets—a source of inspiration and connection to nature. Whether they come with me to a hike, a walk, or simply accompany me while I do my chores, I cherish every moment spent with them. I also thrive on productivity. Outside of work, you'll catch me reading a book, running, or engaging in sports. Each day presents an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact.

Nataly Bailey, Secretary

I’m a passionate advocate for compassionate care and community empowerment. My journey in healthcare has been deeply rooted in a commitment to serving underserved populations and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to quality care. As a Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner, I am privileged to guide patients and their families through some of the most challenging moments of their lives, providing not just medical care but also emotional and spiritual support.

Being a proud Latina I’ve always felt a strong responsibility to give back. This drive led me to my role as Secretary of the Tennessee Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN), where I work alongside an incredible team to create opportunities for Hispanic nurses. I’m dedicated to breaking down barriers and uplifting our community.

Every day, I strive to be a source of support, inspiration, and change within my community and profession. I’m excited to continue this journey, working towards a more inclusive and compassionate future in healthcare.