In Loving Memory of Joy Henderson, PhD, RN

Dr. Joy Henderson passed away in April 2025, leaving a significant void in the maternal health community, among her colleagues, and in the lives of the many families and friends who knew and loved her.

Professional Biography

Dr. Joy Henderson was an Assistant Professor at the Lienhard School of Nursing in the College of Health Professions at Pace University in New York City. She also served as Manager of the Regional Perinatal Center programs at Columbia University Irving Medical Center/Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical Center/Alexandra Cohen Hospital at New York Presbyterian Hospital. Through her leadership, the NYP RPC network provided the highest level of care for over 20% of all births in the NYC metropolitan area.

Dr. Henderson earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Columbia University School of Nursing, a Master of Science in Nursing with a pediatric nurse practitioner specialty from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing, and a PhD from Columbia University. Her research focused on perinatal health, health inequities, the impact of regionalization on premature and high-risk births, infant and maternal mental health, and support for families of premature and high-risk infants. She presented nationally and internationally on developmentally supportive family care.

She was a past president of the New York State Perinatal Association (NYSPA), a founding member and Education Chair of the New York City Chapter of NANN (NYCANN), and a member of the Advanced Developmental Care Credential Taskforce of NANN that developed the Developmental Care Specialist designation. She also held membership in Sigma Theta Tau and was a founding Board member and former charter Treasurer of the Omega Delta chapter at Pace University. In addition, she chaired the New York State March of Dimes Nurse Advisory Committee.

Dr. Henderson published extensively on perinatal care and led numerous educational programs in perinatal and neonatal health for healthcare professionals. Her commitment to global health was equally profound—she delivered clinical care and training across Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

A Personal Reflection

Joy was more than a respected professional, she was a friend, a mentor, and a tireless warrior for Black mothers. She held space for difficult conversations, fought for what was just, and showed up with clarity and compassion.

The loss of her presence is immeasurable. Her legacy lives on in every student she taught, every system she challenged, and every family she uplifted. I am better because I knew her.

Her insight, encouragement, and unwavering belief in our mission helped shape Birthing the Magic Collaborative into what it is today. As a founding board member, her impact is forever woven into our foundation and future.

Marie