Education is the greatest gift

How did you get where you are today?

At age 12 years, I left Uganda as a refugee during the war in 1972 and reached the U.S. in 1974 via India. This journey helped me become focused and provided strength within our family. We all learned to look at life with “glass half full rather than half empty.”

My high school education included licensed practical nursing education from vocational technical school. The guidance I received from my high school counselor was, “You don’t need to take SAT, that is just for students who will be attending college.” Ultimately, my Creator guided me to a different path and vision of further education. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Widener University. The nursing profession is the foundation for my career and has helped me serve my family and community. I received my nurse anesthesia education at the Medical University of South Carolina and have been practicing for over 30 years.

I returned to MUSC and earned a Ph.D. in nursing with an emphasis in global health. I have been working at the Mayo Clinic for the past 25 years with a dual appointment in the Anesthesia division and in neurosurgical research. During that time, I have been privileged to travel with my husband, Dr. Mohammed Mendhi, to give time and share knowledge in many countries, including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Pakistan, India, Myanmar, Tajikistan, Vietnam and Honduras.

What were the most important lessons you learned from your parents?

My mother, Gulshan Moledina, passed away at young age of 39, a few months after arrival in the U.S. She taught us the importance of believing in the Creator, who will always guide you toward the right path. She would read us stories that would teach many lifelong lessons. One that I always remember is, “One shall never step on others’ happiness to gain your own happiness.” My father, Samsudin Moledina, strongly believed in education as the highest level of achievement – not just to make money but also to share one’s knowledge and help others.

Why do you give to MUSC?

I received a scholarship during my undergraduate and cherished the acknowledgement that someone else believed in my future career. The opportunity to expand global health services builds capacity and promotes the practice of pluralism. I also give to follow my parents’ vision of sharing, and to help build a foundation for colleagues and students.

What drew you to Medical University of South Carolina?

MUSC was my choice for nurse anesthesia education. The guidance I received from my professors and instructors was above and beyond. They helped me get through a tough study course and program. I returned to MUSC for my nursing Ph.D. after 20 years because the teaching philosophy is grounded in serving the community, plus I would have access to the Center for Global Health.

What do you want to be remembered for? What do you want your legacy to be?

Learn what is given to you with passion and explore opportunities to further your education. We all have obstacles in life, but we also have vehicles to overcome these obstacles. Education is key to serve the community locally, nationally and globally. “To save one life is to save humanity.”

In 2022, Mendhi endowed a scholarship to support future College of Health Professions students in the Anesthesia for Nurses program. Her gift makes her a lifetime member of the Innovation Circle.