Cerner, AANAC Award Nursing Assistant of the Year Scholarship

May 05, 2015

Cerner, a global leader in health care technology, today announced the 2015 Nursing Assistant of the Year Scholarship recipient, Amanda Jones, of Derby, Kan. The scholarship will be presented to Jones atthe American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordination(AANAC) annual conference on May 8 in New Orleans.

The Nursing Assistant of the Year Scholarship Program was developed by Cerner and AANAC. The program gives qualified nursing assistants who are enrolled, or are planning to enroll, in a degree program the chance to offset educational expenses with a $3,000 scholarship.

"Cerner hopes to empower nursing assistants and help maximize their skill set and capabilities with health information technology. A nursing assistant at the bedside of a patient is critical to the quality of care that facilities can provide," said Steve Herron, Cerner general manager oflong-term care solutions.

This year, an expert panel of judges from the AANAC's membership reviewed more than 100 nominations for the award. Selection is based on employment longevity, interaction with residents, family and staff, coaching or mentoring abilities, work ethic, and quality of work.


Jones was nominated by Katie Gleichman, executive director at Sterling House of Derby, a Brookdale senior living community.


"Amanda is the champion of our community here at Sterling House of Derby," said Gleichman. "The No. 1 cornerstone she follows is to put the residents first. This shows in her daily work ethic and devotion to each of the residents. Amanda
works six days a week and attends Butler Community College full-time. Despite her busy schedule, she always comes to work upbeat and gets the residents smiling. She's willing to do whatever it takes to ensure the residents of Sterling House are supported. Amanda never has been asked to go above and beyond, she just does it."

A native of Wichita, Kan., Jones will begin nursing school this year.

"I'm thrilled to be recognized as this year's recipient. My interest in nursing started at a young age. I'm looking forward to building my nursing career, helping patients and contributing to the health of my community," said Jones.

The Nursing Assistant of the Year Scholarship is in its seventh year. Nominations for next year will open in the fall. Visit theprogram websiteto learn more about the award.

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