For its 22nd anniversary edition, Aetna's 2003 Calendar of African American History salutes some of the most dynamic and earnest African American nurse leaders in the United States. The calendar also recognizes five exemplary African American nursing students from Howard University, who have each pledged to improve the future of health care through research.

Since 1982, the calendar has recognized the outstanding contributions of African Americans, past and present, in fields such as business, politics, science, medicine, education, athletics and entertainment. And, for the first time, an online version of the 2003 calendar has been created, which features historical and personal information in greater detail.

Nearly every aspect of nursing -- education, research, clinical practice, administration and writing -- is featured in this calendar. These profiles of achievement and commitment illustrate that a career in nursing provides countless possibilities and opportunities. The nursing profession is a model for continuing growth, development and change.

Discover what inspired these nurses to choose nursing and what their aspirations are for the future. Find out what makes each complete, as a person and as a professional. Live the rich heritage of African American nurses through a historical timeline and foreword written by respected author and black nurse historian Dr. M. Elizabeth Carnegie.

African American nurses have embraced a lifelong commitment to effect change within a profession that reaches back to the 1800s when nursing was a way of life. These are their stories.