On June 6, a class of New Americans got their start on healthcare careers through the “LNA for Success” program, a joint effort by Manchester Community College (MCC), NHTI-Concord’s Community College, Second Start and Southern New Hampshire Services. The program teaches English Language Learners the skills to become Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs).
LNA for Success simultaneously meets urgent healthcare workforce needs, while providing a career path for individuals facing language barriers. The inaugural program began in January in Concord, with seven tenacious women from around the globe attending classes. In the first six weeks, student learning focused on Medical Terminology comprehension and speaking, followed 60 hours of online education, 24 hours of hands-on laboratory work, 60 hours of on-the-job clinical experience, and 40 hours of test preparation.
Yuhsien Wu-Riggs, a native of Taiwan, told the Concord Monitor that the LNA for Success program “has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.” She views her graduation as the first step in her dream to start her own home care business, where she “can bring comfort and support for people who need it most.”
“[These students] overcame language barriers, completed their LNA training and are now ready to give back to the community in their work in this vital and high-demand healthcare field,” said Kathleen Moore, LNA program coordinator for MCC and NHTI.
Kathy Taylor, director of workforce development and community education at NHTI, said that one participant completed the program but missed graduation because she was in the hospital giving birth. “These women were so dedicated to their education, overcoming personal barriers to advance their education. Their work ethic was inspiring and NHTI is so proud to be part of their accomplishments,” Taylor said.
The next step for the LNA for Success graduates is the state licensing exam, and most have already passed within a few days after graduation. Program leaders anticipate a 100% pass rate from the cohort.
“I was expecting that I would gain a lot of knowledge, but I didn’t expect that I would have so much support from this program,” graduate Lilian Gomez told the Monitor. LNAs provide routine nursing-related services to patients in healthcare facilities and clinics, under the supervision of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN). LNA duties include personal care, monitoring vital signs, nutrition, transport and other services that will increasingly be in demand as New Hampshire’s population ages.
After graduation, NHTI and Second Start conducted workshops to help these budding LNAs write resumes and cover letters, conduct job searches and polish their interview skills to land a job shortly after graduation. This ensured the students would be set up for success in their new careers.
Learn more about NHTI’s diverse offering of workforce education programs at nhti.edu.