On a beautiful spring day, staff, family, and friends gathered once again at Historic Old Salem to take part in the 6th Annual Walk in Memory of Nicole, held in conjunction with the March of Dimes March for Babies. As we walked the Strollway together, the setting offered a peaceful backdrop for reflection, remembrance, and community.

This annual walk honors Roderica “Nicole” McLaurin, a beloved Northwest AHEC staff member whose kindness, dedication, and spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Nicole unexpectedly passed away in October 2020 following the delivery of her second son, Dylan. Her loss continues to be deeply felt, but her memory lives on through this meaningful tradition.

For the past six years, we have gathered alongside Nicole’s family and friends to walk in her honor—keeping her legacy alive while surrounding one another with support and love. Each step we take is a reminder of Nicole’s compassion and her commitment to caring for others.

By joining the March for Babies, our walk is also part of a broader mission to address America’s maternal and infant health crisis. This nationwide movement brings communities together to raise critical funds and awareness—ensuring more families have access to the care, education, and resources they need. It’s a mission that resonates deeply with our work and values at Northwest AHEC.

We are proud to play a small but meaningful role in this movement, honoring Nicole in a way that turns remembrance into action and hope. Thank you to everyone who walked with us, supported the cause, and helped continue a legacy rooted in love, service, and community.

Together, we walk to remember.
Together, we walk for healthier moms and babies.