Tiara Best
Tiara Best is a Chaplain Resident at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, where she provides spiritual care, guidance, and support to individuals navigating moments of challenge, healing, and hope. A graduate of Washington Adventist University, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Theology, graduating magna cum laude as a member of the WAU Honors College. With a strong academic foundation and hands-on ministry experience, Tiara has cultivated a reputation for her compassion, adaptability, and dedication to creating spaces that foster spiritual growth and connection.
Her leadership experience extends beyond the hospital into various academic and ministry contexts. At WAU, she served as Honors College President, Student Association Religious Vice President, Student Chaplain, and Head Editor of the Columbia Journal. She has also held roles as a Resident Assistant, Student Ambassador, and a leader within multiple musical and ministerial organizations. Through these diverse experiences, Tiara has demonstrated her ability to lead with empathy, organize initiatives that inspire dialogue and reflection, and mentor peers in both academic and faith-based settings.
Passionate about the intersection of faith, service, and healing, Tiara continues to expand her ministry through chaplaincy, pastoral leadership, and content creation. She is dedicated to empowering individuals by meeting them where they are—whether through preaching, mentoring, or digital engagement—and remains committed to uplifting voices often overlooked. Guided by her values of service, justice, and belonging, Tiara strives to touch lives in ways that bring comfort, clarity, and hope to every community she serves.
• Unit 1A of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE)
• Washington Adventist University - BA(Theol)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith and a deep passion that started with writing, which continues to bring comfort and hope to others today. This passion also led me to create Table Talk during my time in college. Table Talk was platform designed to foster meaningful conversations and address the impact of religious trauma and topics that are important to young adults. In addition to this work, I volunteer with Shepherd’s Table, supporting individuals in need, and worked with Young Life, where I mentored students as they navigate real-world transitions in and beyond school. I am especially appreciative of the guidance and influence of Professor Dr. Olive Hemmings, whose mentorship was instrumental in directing me to chaplaincy and shaping my professional path.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to remember that things don’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. Have patience, focus on what you can control in the moment, and trust the process. Success is not just about reaching the destination, it is about embracing the journey, learning from each step, and growing along the way.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life stem from my passion for psychology and my commitment to fulfilling my God-given purpose of making a meaningful impact on others. I believe in using my knowledge and experiences to inspire, support, and uplift those around me, staying true to my purpose of touching lives in ways that foster growth, healing, and hope.