Staff & Researchers

Javonna “Lucky” Calhoun

Research Support Specialist
April 29, 2026
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Question: How long have you been with HonorHealth?

Answer: I will celebrate my one-year anniversary with HonorHealth on April 14, 2026. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to support the Trauma Research team by helping strengthen organization, communication, and collaboration across our initiatives. My role focuses on creating the operational structure that keeps projects aligned and moving forward. It has been incredibly rewarding to contribute to work that ultimately advances trauma care and improves patient outcomes. 

Q: At what point in your early life did you decide you wanted to go into a career in research?

A: While research wasn’t something I initially planned to pursue, I have always been driven by curiosity and a desire to contribute to work that makes a meaningful impact. Once I entered the research environment, I quickly realized how powerful it is in shaping the future of healthcare. Research transforms questions and ideas into solutions that improve patient care. Supporting a team focused on advancing trauma research allows me to contribute to something larger than myself, which continues to fuel my passion for the work. 

Q: What is a work-related accomplishment you are proud of?

A: One accomplishment I’m especially proud of is helping create a structure and organization that supports the success of our team and our research initiatives. My colleagues often say they depend on me to “keep us honest,” which reflects the role I play in ensuring meetings, documentation, and projects stay aligned and productive.  

I regularly create agendas, design PowerPoint presentations, and capture detailed meeting minutes to ensure the team’s insights and decisions are clearly documented and accessible. I take pride in presenting information in a way that is both organized and visually engaging so the team can easily reference and act on it.  

I’m also proud of the SharePoint page I developed for Trauma Research. Creating a centralized and accessible space for resources and key materials has helped streamline communication and improve workflow across the team. By building systems that support efficiency, our researchers can focus more of their time on advancing patient care. 

Q: Why is it so important to encourage younger and diverse groups to pursue a career in research?

A: Encouraging younger and more diverse groups to pursue careers in research is essential because the solutions we develop should reflect the communities we serve. Diverse perspectives strengthen research by bringing different experiences, ideas, and insights into the process.  

Representation also helps create safe spaces within healthcare and research. As a Black American, I understand that many people within my community understandably have a level of distrust toward the healthcare system due to historical and ongoing disparities. Seeing representation within research can help build trust and create a sense of safety.  

When individuals feel represented and understood, they are more likely to engage, ask questions, and participate in research that ultimately benefits everyone. Encouraging diverse voices in research helps move healthcare forward in a way that is more inclusive, equitable, and impactful.  

Q: Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself?

A: My nickname “Lucky” comes from being the 13th grandchild in my family, “Lucky 13.” Over time, the name took on a deeper meaning for me. I often say that “Luck” stands for Learning Under Continuous Knowledge, because I truly believe in lifelong learning. I consider myself forever a student of life.  

Outside of work, I’m deeply committed to family and community. As a mother of two, I strive to lead by example by showing my children the importance of curiosity, growth, and resilience.  

For me, being “Lucky” isn’t just a nickname; it represents a mindset. I approach both life and my career with the belief that there is always something new to learn and a new way to grow. I’m grateful to work alongside a Trauma Research team that values collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. Being part of the HonorHealth Research Institute allows me to continue learning while supporting research that ultimately improves patient care and strengthens the communities we serve.