Getting to know...

Augustine Ntah: From Cameroon to St. Jude

Augustine Ntah

The Senior Security Officer speaks on how care and empathy drive his work, and the special connection between St. Jude and Memphis.

COMING TO ST. JUDE

Living in Memphis and working at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a dream come true for me. Every day, I’m reminded of how special this city and this organization are, and I feel grateful to be part of both.

Augustine Ntah

I joined St. Jude as a full-time security officer in 2020, but I still remember my first day on campus. I had lunch at Kay Kafe, and I can tell you exactly what I ate: turkey legs and macaroni made with American cheese.

It was delicious, but more than that, it left a lasting impression. That meal reminded me how much thought and care goes into everything at St. Jude—even the food.

As a security officer, I see that same care reflected in my work. My job is more than keeping the campus safe; it’s about making people feel welcome. Every day, I greet patients, families, and employees with a smile and say, “Welcome to St. Jude. You’re at the best place you can be.”

Bringing a little joy to someone’s day makes my own day better.

St. Jude feels like an extension of my homeland, Cameroon. Cameroon is often called the “United States of Africa” because it’s so welcoming to people from all over the world. St. Jude is the same way. Here, we embrace diversity and appreciate everyone for who they are.

One of my favorite things about St. Jude is the flag display in the Danny Thomas Research Center atrium. Each flag represents the homeland of a current St. Jude employee. Seeing the Cameroon flag among them fills me with pride.

It’s a reminder that while we come from different places, we’re all working together toward the same mission.

St. Jude is a place where everyone’s voice matters. Whether you’re a doctor, a nurse, or a security officer, your ideas are heard.

Danny Thomas created this place for the future, and it’s up to us to carry his vision forward.

For me, empathy drives everything I do. I love helping people—whether it’s ensuring their safety, offering a kind word or simply listening. St. Jude gives me the opportunity to do that every day.

Danny Thomas created this place for the future, and it’s up to use to carry his vision forward.

Augustine Ntah

Senior security officer

Augustine Ntah and his family

FINDING COMMUNITY IN MEMPHIS

I moved to Memphis several years ago, and I’ve enjoyed watching the city grow while still holding on to its unique character.

Memphis is a place where you can see the past and the future side by side. It’s more affordable than most big cities, which means you can enjoy the benefits of urban life while still being close to quieter, more rural areas.

And let me just say—I love Memphis barbecue. It’s one of the first things I tried when I moved here, and it’s still one of my favorite things about the city.

Memphis and St. Jude are both growing, and I believe their success is deeply connected. It takes good, dedicated people to make that happen, and I’m proud to be one of them. This is more than a job for me—it’s a calling, and I’m honored to be part of this incredible community.

MY MEMPHIS FAVORITES

What are your favorite activities in Memphis? My favorite activities in Memphis center around shopping, from going to the Wolfchase Mall to grocery shopping. I like the Ned R. McWherter Library at the University of Memphis for studies and research. I love Shelby Farms for reflection and quiet time.

Where are your favorite places to eat in Memphis? My favorites places to eat include A & R Barbeque in Hickory Hill and Pacific Fusion Buffet and Grill in Cordova.