“Grateful HBCU Student Honors Athletic Trainer for Life-Saving Heroics”

As Winston-Salem State University gets ready to honor its 2025 graduates, a student-athlete from an HBCU is highlighting that some of the key individuals in your academic experience don’t speak from the podium — they stand beside you in your most crucial moments.

Nia James, a senior on the WSSU volleyball squad, recounted an emotional tale of resilience and appreciation towards John Lavender, the university’s dedicated athletic trainer. In a heartfelt social media update, she credited Lavender with preserving her life after a near-fatal health incident in October 2022.

After suffering a severe knee injury during volleyball season, James was subsequently diagnosed with clots in her leg. One night, she endured hours of intense chest discomfort. Lavender insisted she visit the emergency room — and when doctors initially attempted to discharge her, he insisted on conducting a CT scan. That examination uncovered life-threatening clots in all five lobes of her lungs.

With her family miles away, Lavender remained with her throughout the night.

“Without the dedication, compassion, and expertise of John and the exceptional @wssu_at team, I wouldn’t be here getting ready to walk across the stage in 10 days,” James expressed. “Your influence is deeper than you realize.”

Lavender, an alumnus of Elon University, has been with Winston-Salem State since January 2013. As the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine, he has become a reliable figure for numerous generations of student-athletes, providing not only medical treatment but also personal encouragement and representation.

“People frequently inquire why I entered this field. This is a prime illustration of my motivation,” Lavender posted on X. “We have an incredible AT team at WSSU. I consistently tell all our recruits/parents that when their child comes to WSSU, they become my child. I care for my kids. I love my role.” ?

James’ narrative stands as a striking testament to the close-knit, transformative community that exists at her HBCU and many others.

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