When Montanya Crosby talks to new nurses, she always stresses the importance of developing relationships with patients. Working in a neighborhood family practice has allowed Crosby to show firsthand how valuable those connections can be.

“The patients come in with their families, then they grow up and they have their families. It’s that whole cycle of life you don’t get to see on the in-patient side, and it’s just wonderful to be a part of that,” says Crosby, who’s held her current role since 2018.

The health center is a full-service family practice with a focus on preventive care to the underserved community. It offers an array of programs for the uninsured, underinsured or those with high prescription co-pays, including free medication for chronic conditions and STD testing and contraceptives at either no cost or sliding scale, and free physicals and vaccines for school-age children through a partnership with most Pittsburgh Public Schools.

Crosby is also a member of the National Black Nurses Association and one of the co-chairs of the membership committee for the local chapter, Pittsburgh Black Nurses in Action, with the mission of advancing health and wellness in the community while facilitating diversity in the nursing profession through mentorship and education. The local group convenes monthly to discuss needs in the community, organize health fairs and foster collaboration with other medical organizations. It also offers an opportunity for nurses of diverse backgrounds to share their experiences, Crosby says.

“I appreciate being able to bring to the table something I think is an issue, then we can talk about it and try to figure out how we can help,” she says.

Crosby had her own health scare when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2014 and credits the amazing work and support of her peers at UPMC Shadyside and UPMC Presbyterian for helping her navigate the months of testing and uncertainty. The experience made her realize there was much more she wanted to accomplish; today, she is pursuing her master’s degree with the goal of becoming a nurse educator.

“I want to do whatever nursing will allow me to do to continue to help me grow,” she says.