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

As Winston-Salem State University readies to honor its 2025 graduates, one HBCU student-athlete is reminding everyone that some of the most vital individuals in your academic journey aren’t positioned at the podium — they stand alongside you during crucial moments.

Nia James, a senior on the WSSU volleyball squad, recounted a poignant tale of resilience and appreciation for John Lavender, the university’s dedicated athletic trainer. In a heartfelt social media update, she acknowledged Lavender for saving her life after a nearly fatal health incident in October 2022.

After sustaining a near-complete tear of her knee ligaments during volleyball season, James was later found to have blood clots in her leg. One evening, she endured hours of intense chest discomfort. Lavender urged her to seek emergency care — and when doctors initially aimed to send her home, he insisted on a CT scan. That examination uncovered life-endangering blood clots in all five lobes of her lungs.

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

“Without the dedication, compassion, and expertise of John and the incredible @wssu_at team, I would not be here getting ready to walk across the stage in 10 days,” James expressed. “Your influence is more significant than you can imagine.”

Lavender, an alumnus of Elon University, has been part of Winston-Salem State since January 2013. In his capacity as Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine, he has become a reliable resource for countless student-athletes, providing not only physical care but also emotional support and advocacy.

“People frequently inquire why I entered this field. This is a perfect illustration of my motivation,” Lavender shared on X. “We boast an outstanding AT staff at WSSU. I inform all our recruits/parents that when their child joins WSSU, they become my child. I cherish my kids. I adore my profession.”

James’ narrative serves as a profound demonstration of the tight-knit, transformative community found at her HBCU and many others.

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