January 4, 2025

R-CCC Celebrates Nurse Aide II Graduates, Highlighting the Vital Role of Nursing Assistants in Healthcare
 

 

AHOSKIE, NC –Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) proudly announces the recent success of its Nurse Aide II (NAII) program graduates. Four dedicated students—Margarita Alfaro, Jewelrico Ashe, Serenity Cousins, and Lawanza Outlaw—have completed the rigorous coursework under the guidance of Dr. Stacy Simmons, RN. These graduates are now equipped with advanced skills to meet the growing demands of healthcare.

“Nursing assistants are an indispensable part of the patient care team,” said Simmons. “This program equips them with essential advanced skills, such as wound care, urinary catheterization, tracheostomy care, and tube feeding. With an aging population and a persistent nursing shortage, there has never been a better time to pursue a career in healthcare.”

The graduates expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunities the program has provided.

 “Completing the NAII program has been a crucial step on my journey to becoming a registered nurse,” said Alfaro. “The hands-on experience and new skills I’ve gained have prepared me for my future studies and allowed me to contribute meaningfully to my community’s healthcare needs.”

“My classmates and instructor made this journey rewarding and fun,” shared Cousins. “We learned from each other, supported one another, and grew together. This course has deepened my confidence and my passion for providing compassionate care, which truly impacts lives every day.”

Outlaw highlighted the critical role of nursing assistants in today’s society, saying, “The community relies heavily on us, and I’m proud to be part of this vital workforce. Thanks to ECU Health and their Nursing Assistant Advancement Program, I’ve been able to continue my education and expand my skills while balancing work and study. I encourage my colleagues to pursue this opportunity—it’s life-changing!”

Upon completing the NAII course, graduates are eligible for listing with the NC Board of Nursing, opening doors to advanced opportunities in a growing field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for nurse aides is positive, with employment projected to grow nationally by 4-5% through 2033. North Carolina is expected to see even higher growth, at 11% over the next decade.

With an average salary of $32,000 and competitive wages in cities like Charlotte, Greensboro, and Durham, nurse aides play a crucial role in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes and hospice care.

R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams praised the graduates, stating, “These students exemplify the dedication and resilience that our healthcare industry so desperately needs. Their hard work and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on the lives they touch.”

R-CCC’s Continuing Education & Workforce Development team is now enrolling for upcoming Nurse Aide courses. For more information, contact 252-862-1307 or 252-862-1309.

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Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s Mission

Roanoke-Chowan Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System and located in Hertford County, is a public, two-year institution of higher education offering associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, college and career readiness, and customized business and industry training in a variety of delivery modes promoting public service, transfer, and workforce development for a diverse student body, leading them to contribute to the vitality of an increasingly global community. www.roanokechowan.edu #DiscoverRCCC “Where community and careers connect”

Media Contact: Melanie Temple, Director of Marketing & Recruitment/PIO, metemple7181@roanokechowan.edu, 252-862-1243