MCC News
Dinolfo, Kress Congratulate First Graduates of Certified Nurse Assistant Program (04/16/2019)
17 participants complete nursing certification funded by LadderzUP, fill vital job openings in growing health care field
Monroe County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo and Monroe Community College President Anne M. Kress today announced completion of the first-ever class of the MCC Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) program funded by LadderzUP. A graduation ceremony was held for the 17 participants today at MCC’s Downtown Campus.
“One of our top economic development priorities is to connect interested individuals with jobs that are available right here, right now,” said Dinolfo. “LadderzUP has proven to be a highly effective way to provide the necessary skills to people that are interested in new career opportunities. We’re so proud of our work with MCC, our local employers, and most importantly, the 17 students who have pursued the first-ever CNA Certification.”
LadderzUP is a Monroe County program, powered by MCC, that creates custom, accelerated job-training skills development and certification programs that prepare individuals for immediate career opportunities. Also focused on company-specific programs, the CNA program is an example of the new consortium-based LadderzUP model.
“MCC’s mission is to transform students’ lives by connecting them to meaningful careers made possible through education. With Monroe County’s support through LadderzUP and our partnerships with employers, we’re opening doors of opportunity for individuals seeking careers in the health care field,” said Dr. Kress. “I am so proud of these 17 students for achieving this significant milestone and following their passion to make a difference in our community.”
According to an MCC analysis of the middle-skill labor market, there are an estimated 375 CNA positions likely to go unfilled in the Finger Lakes region due to an aging population and a shortage of workers. The CNA program funded by LadderzUP seeks to address that need and incorporates additional scholarship funding from NY Inspire and Health Profession Opportunity Grants.
The CNA Training and Development Program, offers advancement opportunity to employees at health care facilities interested in pursuing CNA certification to advance. The program prepares participants for the state certification exam through on-campus learning and off-site clinical experience in caring for residents. The program also offers skill-development training, networking and post-program support for four months. The 17 participants were sponsored by St. John’s Senior Living and The Friendly Home.
The CNA program has two additional levels planned for the future:
- · The Basic CNA Training Program prepares participants for the state certification exam through on-campus learning and off-site clinical experience. Participants are able to identify basic and special care needs of residents and, under the supervision of a licensed nurse, provide care aimed at meeting these needs; effectively communicate with residents and staff; and promote residents’ rights and the maintenance of a safe care environment. The program is ideal for individuals seeking an entry point into a health care career.
· The Advanced CNA Program is designed for employed nurse assistants seeking professional skills development. Participants complete two days of skill building followed by sessions on topics ranging from communication and critical thinking to customer management and coaching/mentoring.
All programs meet curriculum standards set by the New York State Education Department. Participants who pass the state certification exams can begin their careers in settings like senior living facilities, hospitals, clinics and doctors’ offices. Wages can be as high as $15.50/hour.
Media Contact:
Rosanna Yule
Government and Community Relations
585-292-3024
ryule@monroecc.edu