At Legacy Medical Academy, our instructors don’t just teach, they inspire. This month, we’re highlighting an educator whose journey into healthcare began later in life, but whose passion for nursing and dedication to students shines through in every class. With a background in long-term care, home health, and nurse education, she brings real-world experience and heartfelt encouragement to her CNA students. Get to know more about her path, her teaching style, and the advice she shares with those just beginning their healthcare careers.
What led you to a career in healthcare, and what made you decide to teach at Legacy Medical Academy?
My journey into healthcare began when I was in my late 20’s when I decided to go back to college with the goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. I was married with three children ages 12, 9, and 5. Completing my pre-nursing prerequisites at Ancilla College I then attended Memorial Hospital School of Nursing.. Nursing wasn’t my first choice in a career, but it worked best for my situation at the time. I found I loved nursing.
I began teaching CNA students part-time for Michiana Healthcare Training (MHT). Prior to that I was working as a Staff Development Director teaching the same course in a Long-Term Care Facility. Along with MHT I was working for Memorial Home Care.
When MHT became Legacy CAN Training I continued working there and so here I am today continuing to teach for Legacy Medical Academy.
What do you love most about working with students at Legacy Medical Academy?
What I love most about working with students at Legacy Medical Academy is seeing their growth and development over such a short period of time. Three weeks!!! It is incredibly rewarding to witness the transformation of students as they gain confidence, skills, and knowledge. I feel privileged to be a part of their journey, helping them to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in the healthcare field.
What’s one thing students might be surprised to learn about you.
One thing students might be surprised to learn about me is my love for reading, gardening, and horses.In my spare time, you can often find me immersed in a captivating book, tending to my garden, or spending time with my horse The Magpie These hobbies provide me with a sense of well-being and don’t come close to the cost of a therapist
What’s your teaching style like, and what can students expect when they step into your class?
I teach lab days 1,2,3 & 4 for the CNA students. This requires the student to perform correctly the skills assigned that day. These skills are just a few of the 72 that the students are required to know for the state tests. This can be quite overwhelming.
I want the students to be comfortable. I would say my style is supportive, interactive and at times relaxed. I do expect the students to come to the lab days prepared.
If you could give one piece of advice to students starting their healthcare/ CNA journey, what would it be?
Understand that this course can be and will be overwhelming at times. And that your journey can open a whole new experience for you into the world of nursing. It can be a life-changing opportunity, providing you with the skills and knowledge to make a significant impact on the lives of residents, patients, and people in the healthcare system.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
As an instructor with Legacy Medical Academy the most rewarding part of my job is to see students complete the three weeks of class, lab days and clinical days and then successfully pass both the written and skills Test that is required by the State of Indiana. The smiles, hugs and tears. That is what makes this job so rewarding.
