Elisha Griffith always harbored a dream of becoming a nurse. In March 2018, she took a decisive step towards realizing this aspiration at East Central College (ECC). Through a groundbreaking partnership between the college’s Health Careers Workforce and the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program, Elisha began her journey, initially setting her sights on the Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) certification while preparing for the High School Equivalency Test (HISET). This strategic approach allowed her to fast-track her entry into the nursing field, exceeding her initial expectations.
“Nursing was always my calling, and this time, there were no more excuses to postpone my education,” Elisha explained. “I realized that waitressing wasn’t my ultimate career. I needed to seize the moment, not just for myself, but for my children.” Driven by the desire to build a stable future for her family, Elisha embraced the opportunity to transform her life and career trajectory.
The hybrid program she enrolled in was meticulously designed to equip aspiring nurses with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in diverse healthcare settings, including long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health agencies. It encompassed 75 hours of comprehensive classroom instruction and 100 hours of hands-on, supervised clinical training. Crucially, it also integrated 100 hours dedicated to preparing students for the high school equivalency exam, ensuring a holistic approach to education and career readiness.
Elisha’s dedication and hard work culminated in the successful completion of the CNA program in July 2018. A month later, in August 2018, she triumphantly passed the HISET on her first attempt, marking significant milestones in her educational journey. She credits the unwavering support of the AEL staff, particularly Betsy Williams, AEL instructor; Terri Warmack, Health Careers Workforce coordinator; and Alice Whalen, AEL director, for their exceptional guidance and mentorship. Her achievements were further recognized when she was inducted into the 2019 National Adult Education Honor Society, a testament to her dependability, strong work ethic, positive attitude, and academic performance.
“I might have started my journey later in life, but my determination has been unwavering, propelling me forward every step of the way,” Elisha affirmed.
Shortly after obtaining her CNA certification, Elisha began working at St. Clair Nursing Center, where she provides compassionate care to residents and assists them with their daily activities – a fulfilling career path she has grown to love.
Elisha Griffith, East Central College CNA program graduate, on her path to becoming an LPN through the Four Rivers Career Center LPN program
Continuing Education and the Path to LPN
Elisha’s pursuit of knowledge and professional growth didn’t conclude with her CNA certification. Demonstrating her commitment to advancing her nursing career, she enrolled in the highly regarded Four Rivers Career Center Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program soon after completing the program at ECC. This intensive two-year program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in practical nursing, preparing them for the challenges and rewards of this vital healthcare role.
The Four Rivers Career Center Lpn Program is known for its rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and commitment to student success. It offers a blend of classroom learning, hands-on laboratory practice, and clinical experiences in real-world healthcare settings. Students in the program learn essential nursing skills, patient care techniques, pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, and medical-surgical nursing principles. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and compassionate patient interaction, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to provide high-quality care. While demanding, the program is structured to support students like Elisha, who are determined to build a fulfilling career in nursing.
Elisha persevered through the demanding curriculum and successfully completed the LPN program, taking her completion exam on July 9. She is currently awaiting her LPN exam results, the final step before she can advance to the LPN to RN (Registered Nurse) Bridge program at ECC Rolla. This Bridge program offers a seamless pathway for LPNs to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing and become Registered Nurses.
The LPN to RN Bridge program at ECC is specifically tailored to accommodate the schedules of working LPNs, offering evening and every-other-weekend classes. Elisha is enthusiastic about continuing her education through the Bridge program, recognizing it as the next logical step in her journey to becoming a Registered Nurse. While she is currently completing the necessary prerequisites for the Bridge program, her passion for learning and dedication to nursing remain unwavering.
Elisha’s inspiring journey has not only transformed her own life but has also had a ripple effect, encouraging others to pursue their healthcare aspirations. She even inspired her cousin to enroll in the AEL/CNA program, demonstrating the power of her story and her commitment to supporting others on their paths to success. “She’s interested in healthcare, and I immediately connected her with Betsy (Williams),” Elisha shared. “Now, I’m her biggest supporter and cheerleader.”
Program Accessibility and Further Information
The AEL/CNA partnership program that launched Elisha’s nursing career is offered by ECC on a case-by-case basis, depending on student interest and program availability. Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the program’s commencement.
For those interested in exploring the CNA program at East Central College, Terri Warmack can be reached at 636-584-6531 or via email at [email protected]. Detailed information about the AEL program and HISET preparation can be found at www.eastcentral.edu/ael or by calling 636-584-6533. To discover more about ECC’s comprehensive nursing programs, including the LPN to RN Bridge, please visit https://www.eastcentral.edu/allied-health/nursing/. And for those specifically drawn to practical nursing, explore the Four Rivers Career Center LPN program to embark on your own rewarding healthcare career.
