NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (June 17, 2024) – Five Virginia Health Services (VHS) communities have been recognized as 2024 recipients of the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) for their commitment to improving the lives of residents through quality care. This distinction is the first of three progressive award levels through the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program. The Program honors providers across the nation that have demonstrated their dedication to enhancing the quality of care for our nation’s elders and individuals with disabilities.
The Newport, Northampton and Walter Reed Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers, and The Hamilton and The Huntington Assisted Living communities — all under the VHS umbrella — are among the state’s 17 Bronze award recipients.
“We are proud to have The Newport, Northampton, Walter Reed, The Hamilton and The Huntington as recipients of the national Bronze award for quality. Our team is committed to providing the highest quality care possible to our residents at our nursing and rehabilitation centers and assisted living communities, and this recognizes all they do to honor that commitment,” said VHS President and CEO Mark Klyczek.
The Newport (Newport News), Northampton (Hampton) and Walter Reed (Gloucester) provide skilled and long-term nursing care with on-site rehabilitation. Walter Reed, which was recognized among Newsweek’s Best Nursing Homes for 2023 and 2024, also provides memory care.
The Hamilton (York County) and The Huntington (Newport News) Assisted Living communities provide residents with a 24/7 nursing team and support staff, and offer a comfortable living environment that includes on-site daily dining, events and activities.
The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program is a rigorous three-level process reviewed and evaluated by trained experts against a set of nationally recognized standards for organizational excellence. The standards of the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program help organizations achieve superior performance over time to improve the quality of life and care of long-term care residents.
Providers begin the quality improvement journey at the Bronze level, where they develop an organizational profile detailing among other elements their vision, mission, key customers, and key strengths and challenges. Bronze applicants must demonstrate the use of a performance improvement system. Trained examiners review each application to determine if a center has met the demands of the criteria. As recipients of the Bronze – Commitment to Quality award, The Newport, Northampton, Walter Reed, The Hamilton and The Huntington may now move forward to the Silver – Achievement in Quality award criteria.
“Receiving this award marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards excellence,” said Cathy Bergland, AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Board Chair. “Congratulations to the Virginia Health Services communities for this significant achievement. I encourage you to take some time to celebrate and continue striving for higher levels of quality and performance.”
The National Quality Awards will be presented during Delivering Solutions 24, the AHCA/NCAL Convention & Expo, October 6-9, 2024, in Orlando, Florida.
Locally owned and headquartered in Newport News, Virginia since 1963, Virginia Health Services offers exceptional senior living and health care services. We specialize in the continuum of care from active lifestyle independent and assisted senior living communities, to skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Our 1,000+ Team Members are passionate and committed to the well-being and quality care of our residents. Beyond our thoughtfully maintained communities located throughout the Virginia Peninsula, we offer a full range of personalized skilled health care, outpatient therapy, home care and hospice services by specially trained staff in the comfort and privacy of your home. To learn more, please visit our website at www.vahs.com.
About AHCA/NCAL
The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) represents more than 14,500 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and development disabilities. By delivering solutions for quality care, AHCA/NCAL aims to improve the lives of the millions of frail, elderly and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in our member facilities each day. For more information, please visit www.ahcancal.org.
Seven students graduated from Care Assistants to Nurse Aides during a ceremony June 6, 2024, at the EEE Center. The students — overall — had top marks in their classwork and completing clinical skills labs throughout their experience in Virginia Health Services’ earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship program
The students spent nearly six weeks in the classroom and in clinical skills labs at Coliseum Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Hampton. They learned 22 skills, took 14 tests and got hands-on experience working with patients. The apprenticeship program also covers the cost of the state certification exam to be CNAs, which they’ll take after going through review courses.
Friends, family members and VHS team members from corporate and Coliseum attended the graduation ceremony. Instructor Nora Gillespie, RN, and Director of Education Princess Henderson, BSN, RN, gave remarks as each graduate received their certificates, and they received updated name badges now that they are Nurse Aides.
The graduates before the ceremony June 6, 2024, at the EEE Center. They will join the teams at Coliseum and The Newport.
The graduates – Diamond Anthony, Jenny Broadsword, Ken Claiborne, Amauri Hicks, Essence Jones, Dania Manago and Ja’Mya Starks – will join the teams at Coliseum and The Newport Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers.
“You should be proud of the teamwork and this family you all created. You’ll be friends for a long time,” Princess said during the ceremony.
Coliseum Administrator Dudley Haas and Director of Nursing Yolanda Carnegie-Chambers cheered on the graduates. They supported the students through their apprenticeship and will have six of the seven on their team.
Friends, family and members from Coliseum cheer on the graduates.Don Lundin and Rebecca Boyd address the graduates.
VHS Vice President of Operations Don Lundin and Vice President of Nursing Rebecca Boyd also shared remarks with the class. Don called the graduates who will move into CNA roles “the backbone of what we do.”
“This is a hard job. We want to support you through your professional journey,” Rebecca said. “We want to help you grow and flourish.”
The graduates
Princess said this class showed tremendous growth and bonded together to work as a team to make sure everyone got to the finish line. She and Nora showered the graduates with praise for their heart, compassion and ability to work together as a team.
Nora shared Diamond picked up everything right away. “She was eager to jump into the CNA world. She loved her residents,” Princess said.
Ken Claiborne “was like everybody’s brother. He looked out for the class,” Nora said. Princess says he is a caring person and built rapport with his residents at Coliseum.
He and Essence received certificates from Princess for excelling in clinical skills.
Salutatorian Amauri Hicks and Director of Education Princess Henderson.Dania Manago and Director of Education Princess Henderson.Diamond Anthony and Director of Education Princess Henderson.Essence Jones and Director of Education Princess Henderson.Ja’Mya Starks and Director Education Princess Henderson.Ken Claiborne and Director of Education Princess Henderson.
Essence came to class with experience in home health care, but felt she needed the training the apprentice program provides. “We’re lucky to have her on the team,” Princess said.
Amauri, the salutatorian, aspires to be a physician assistant. She is a student at Hampton University, and feels more prepared for the medical program having gone through the training.
Dania received the Champion Award from Princess, which recognizes the most improved in the class.
“She grew personally and professionally,” Princess said. “She fell in love with caring for people.”
Ja’Mya — affectionately called Jam — loved her residents and “is the type of person we want to work for VHS,” Princess said. She is in the nursing program at Norfolk State University and feels she learned so much more in the apprentice program.
“You have the strength that will carry you through to a phenomenal career,” Nora said.
Valedictorian
Valedictorian Jenny Broadsword came into the class with healthcare experience. She excelled in class and in clinicals, Princess said. Nora added she was good at helping her classmates get through learning the skills needed to be a successful CNA.
Valedictorian Jenny Broadsword and Director of Education Princess Henderson.
In her valedictorian address, Jenny showered compliments on Nora and Princess.
“Today marks the start of a new journey. Six weeks ago we embarked on a new path with VHS. We entered this building as nervous, excited and as strangers. Today we exit as we began, with a newfound appreciation for our role as caregivers and with new friendships,” Jenny said.
“Along the way, we were guided by our amazing instructors who never hesitated to explain, demonstrate and respond to our requests. Nora and Princess, thank you for instilling in us seriousness and dignity of the caregiver. …
“With Miss Nora in our ears and Princess holding our hands, we navigated through the highs and the lows of clinicals. We walked in with our heads held high … we have gained invaluable knowledge of what it means to be a caring caregiver. As we leave here today, one thought continues to ring in our ear, ‘do it with heart and do it right’.”
Valedictorian Jenny Broadsword delivers her remarks to her peers.
Upcoming classes
The graduates will participate in review sessions before taking their state certification exams.
Applications are closed for the next class, which starts June 24 at the EEE Center. Students of the Gloucester class graduate July 9 at Walter Reed Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Sessions are scheduled throughout the year at both locations, and applications typically open six weeks in advance of the class start date.
It’s National Healthcare Recruiter Recognition Day! We’d like to take some time to introduce you to Virginia Health Services’ Senior Recruiter Colleen Reynolds. We appreciate all she does daily to recruit new team members to the organization and help them through to the offer and onboarding processes.
Over the past two years, Colleen has been in the community to build awareness about Virginia Health Services and our employment opportunities. The community groups and education organizations she’s partnered with have helped elevate VHS’ recruiting efforts and attract top talent in a competitive industry.
Colleen started with Virginia Health Services more than two years ago. She was born and raised in New York and has lived in the South for the past 16 years. Colleen is a stepmom and dog mom to two girls, a 12-year-old and a French bulldog. She also is a true crime fanatic.
Community involvement
Colleen says the community partners she consistently works with stretch across the Peninsula, Gloucester area and Northern Neck. They include workforce development programs and higher education programs.
Colleen also attends career fairs throughout Hampton Roads. She follows up with recent college grads, such as those in the nursing programs at Hampton University, ECPI University and Fortis College, to make sure they are aware of available career paths at VHS.
She has partnered with Rappahannock Community College, Hampton University and Northern Neck Technical Center to conduct mock interviews and better help the students prepare for the “real world” when looking for employment.
Colleen also focuses on connecting with those in the VA and other military outlets to attract retirees and military spouses to careers with Virginia Health Services. One of those partners is Hamilton Ryker’s TalentGro.
Additional community outreach partners include: Hampton Roads Workforce Council, New Horizons, Commonwealth Catholic Charities, Peninsula Regional Education Program (Newport News), Tidewater Medical Training, Brooks Crossing-Navigation Wealth Program (Newport News) and Virginia Peninsula Community College and VPCC Workforce Development.
Why healthcare recruiting?
Colleen says she was drawn to recruiting so she could help individuals reach their career goals.
“When I am able to make the initial connection with a candidate and follow them through the interview process, all of the way to the job offer, it is extremely rewarding to be a small part of their professional development and journey,” she says.
The healthcare industry stands out because these positions offer job stability – there’s always a need, regardless of location. She says it’s one industry where starting at entry-level can mean advancement to other specialized roles.
“The possibilities are truly endless within the healthcare industry,” she says.
Recruiting Roadshow
Colleen hosts quarterly Recruiting Roadshows at VHS’ seven nursing and rehabilitation centers. The events allow her to interact with current team members in their work environment and show appreciation for what they do. It is helpful in better targeting quality candidates.
“It also means being flexible in completing the interview/offer/new hire paperwork process on site,” she says. The Roadshow also gives candidates the chance to meet the team and management, and ask questions.
The next Roadshow is June 24-27. Get the schedule here.
Careers at VHS
We having openings for nursing positions, dietary, housekeeping and more. View our job listings and apply to careers with Virginia Health Services at vahs.com/careers.
We appreciate their time and the time of their visiting families and friends who all were so open in telling their stories.
Coliseum Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
James Genus
James Genus – or as we affectionately call him, Mr. G – has been at Coliseum Nursing and Rehabilitation Center since February 2021. He never misses an activity and always waves hello.
Originally from Rockville, Maryland, Mr. G was stationed at Fort Eustis after returning from flying for the Army in Vietnam. He served as a flight engineer for seven years in the Army, leaving as an E-5 in 1966.
Coliseum resident Mr. G.
It was while he was stationed at Fort Eustis that he met his wife. Even after struggling to find a job “as a Black man” in the area, they didn’t leave.
Instead he opened his own string of businesses, including a portable cleaning service.
“I learned I could make more money doing that than something in aviation (at that time),” he says.
Mr. G’s businesses brought in a lot of money and at its peak employed 40. His janitorial and environmental services businesses spanned several states, including Delaware and North Carolina, and they had contracts with several small colleges, he said.
“I never got a big head. Because it comes but you got a partner, and that partner’s the government. … I always stayed low-key, and I teach my son the same thing. He thanks me all the time,” he says.
Mr. G’s success translated to his son, also named James, though in a far different path. His son has played bass with the Saturday Night Live Band for about 20 years, and is also a freelance musician who has toured the world with Herbie Hancock.
He lives in Connecticut with his wife and three children.
Mr. G has been to see his son perform on the set of “SNL” many times, he says, but couldn’t quite pinpoint a favorite host.
“I don’t know (who my favorite host was),” he says. “I was just there to see him.”
James River Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Sandra Jordan
Sandra Jordan has been at James River for almost 15 years. With little family in the area, she relies on the team at James River for support.
“They look out for me and help me,” she says.
James River resident Sandra Jordan.
Sandra originally is from New York, and moved to the area first to attend Hampton University. In her first year, she met and married her husband.
“I just stayed after that,” she says.
They divorced when their son turned 18, she says, but remained friends.
“I’ve been single ever since,” she says.
She worked as a kitchen supervisor at Sentara for 15 years and Riverside for 10 years, so “I’m particular about the food,” she says.
Sandra believes in giving a kind word to all.
She enjoys the daily activity programs. Sandra says she enjoys Bingo and the live music the most.
“It’s one day at a time,” she says.
Lancashire Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Sandra Scripture
Sandra Scripture has called Lancashire home since January 2023. She moved in for the extra help – and to help ease her children’s minds.
“I’m a china doll on the wall and I have somebody here to pick me up when I fall,” she says.
The 24/7 nursing care, regular meals and housekeeping are benefits to staying at Lancashire. It’s also close to some of her children. She lived in Northumberland since 1983, but was born and raised in Caroline County.
Sandra Scripture calls Lancashire home.
Sandra is a regular in the therapy room to keep up strength in her knee, using the stationary bike and other equipment when she has the chance.
She participates in Resident Council, but prefers to skip some of the activities.
“I’ve always had to meet deadlines, I enjoy just being able to relax and think and read,” she says.
Sandra was in dentistry for 50 years. She worked for a dentist as an assistant who made her learn everything, she says, “and that was the foundation for my career. I worked for several other dentists and they all found me as knowledgeable as they were.”
There is a plaque in the division of dental health in Richmond in honor of the work she did for rural Virginia. Sandra worked for state dental health division for 15 years.
“I’m just an average person who loved people and loved the Lord and enjoyed life,” she says.
With a last name like Scripture, it was inevitable Sandra’s husband would pursue ministry. He attended seminary 20 years after graduating from Virginia Tech and working for the state in Richmond in the division of health research.
“We were late in life doing things,” Sandra says.
They fostered 14 children during their marriage, adopting a son, and have three children. Sandra says there are “a bunch of grandsons and great-grandchildren – who knows where they are, but they keep in touch!” (It’s with a smile – there are just too many locations to recall in an interview.)
They both usually held two jobs. Sandra’s husband passed in November 2022.
“He preached on Sunday and died on Tuesday,” she says.
Their youngest daughter got in the pulpit the Sunday after he passed and has been preaching at Wicomico Baptist in Remo since. Sandra says she gets there every so often for services.
“As much as we think about our future – I never wanted to go to a nursing home, but it’s actually in my mind the best thing for us older people. Gives our children peace of mind that somebody’s always watching us.
“I think we elders need to rethink the thought that I don’t ever want to go to a nursing home. It’s not home, but it’s the next best thing.”
Robert Laws
Robert Laws was the maintenance tech at Lancashire.
Robert Laws has resided at Lancashire for about four years.
His many odd jobs throughout life – where he was a cook, installed fences and “everything in the name of the world” included serving as the former maintenance foreman at Lancashire.
The Lancaster County native has a lot of family members in the area and says he gets along with everyone.
“Life is a character, it goes on and on. I love my life,” he says with a kind smile. “… I’m cool, that’s all you need to know. No more, no less than that.”
Northampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Charles Speller
Peninsula native Charles Speller moved to Northampton from the VA Hospital about a year ago. He served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, working aboard ships as a fireman.
Charles Speller moved into Northampton from the VA Hospital.
“It was exciting,” he says.
When he returned to dry land, he worked at the Newport News shipyard as a plumber.
“If pipes were damaged and needed fixing on ships, they would call us. I couldn’t count all the pipes on a ship,” he says.
After spending five years at the shipyard, he worked as a plumber for his uncle’s company.
At Northampton, Charles goes to as many activities as he can. Some of his favorites are live entertainment, church services, arts and crafts, Bingo and music with Mr. Teller – “the ‘Piano Man,’ he’s good,” he says.
He also appreciates the physical therapists at Northampton.
Suzanne Joyner
You get a sense of some of Suzanne Joyner’s loves when you step into her space. One the walls are photographs and paintings highlighting her joys – her family and ballroom dancing.
The former competitive ballroom dancer ran a dance studio for 27 years in Hampton.
“I never worked a day in my life,” she says of her love for dance. She also won several “best teacher” awards.
Before owning the studio, she owned a sewing machine store for 21 years. She also is devoted to her family.
Suzanne Joyner owned a ballroom dance studio in Hampton. She says she “never worked a day in my life.”
She was married for almost 60 years until he passed. They met as teenagers when he worked as a painter for her father.
“I loved him so much,” she says. “If you ever find a man you love, listen to what he says to you. You have to be friends first – be his friend.”
Suzanne has three living children, including a son who is an artist, and an adopted daughter who works for VHS Hospice and suggested Northampton. She also has six grandchildren and six great-grands – “I love them all!”
She has had two strokes, one of which “debilitated me.” She did a skilled rehabilitation stint at The Newport Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, was discharged home, and then returned more permanently to Northampton.
“I’m a determined person,” she says. “I like it (here); I’m getting used to it. … I think I get the best care they can give me.”
She participates in as many activities as she can, including Bingo, and really loves when there’s live music. She also reads and plays games on her iPad.
Walter Reed Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Connie Strickland
When Connie Strickland came to Walter Reed about three years ago, she was paralyzed. She could barely lift her head when someone fed her.
She did physical therapy for about a year.
Walter Reed resident Connie Strickland.
“The therapists did a fantastic job with me. I hated them. But they got me moving, and I can do everything except walk with left leg and my back is not good. Other than that, I’m fine,” she says.
Now she visits the therapy room to encourage those there that “it isn’t hopeless,” she says. “Those therapists, I call them my angels.”
She now lives across the hall from her best friend Lola, and the women on the unit have become fast friends.
“I do find I love it here,” she says. “They’re really good to me and we all have a good time.”
She participates in as many activities as she’s able – with Bingo and “all the thinking activities” being her favorites. “I stay busy,” she says.
Connie also is an active member of Resident Council.
Originally from West Virginia, where she met her husband in 11th grade, they moved to the Gloucester area to take care of members of her husband’s family before he passed.
They were married (one month shy of) 50 years.
While in West Virginia, they did a lot of camping, fishing and boating – and had a lot of dogs. Connie has portraits of them up in her room, which drew Lola to inquire about them, igniting their friendship.
Connie taught English for 35 years – “all the way from elementary to college. I loved it,” she says.
Since moving to Virginia, she made several friends she relies on, including best friends who serve as her responsible party.
“I think this is a good place for anybody,” she says. “I was meant to be here, that’s what I’ve told people. … that’s how we all look at it. We take care of each other.”
Connie and Lola, right, live across the hall from one another and are best friends at Walter Reed Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Lola Colgan
Lola Colgan lives across the hall from her best friend at Walter Reed. She’s been a resident for about a year and a half, and struck up a conversation with hallmate Connie Strickland.
“I’m a fanatic about dogs and I talked to her about her pictures,” Lola says. “We found out we have a lot in common. We get along real well; we do everything together pretty much, but Bingo is our thing.”
She, Connie and their hallmates are all close. They sit in the hall and talk; help one another when they can.
“Of course, I would prefer to be well enough to live on my own again, but I’ve tried several facilities and this is the best one I’ve found,” she says.
It’s closer to her daughter in Mathews, who visits frequently. Lola also says she and her friends at Walter Reed feel heard. They attend Resident Council meetings and “we voice our opinions about diet and activities and personnel, and we do seem to get a voice and they to seem to listen to us and react to our comments,” she says.
While she’s lived in the Gloucester area for about 20 years, she moved with her family from Arkansas when she was 6 and Lola spent her earlier years living in Hampton and Newport News.
The Hampton High grad worked at Newport News Shipbuilding for more than 20 years. She started in the sewing department, but found she was more interested in building ventilation systems for air craft carriers and submarines.
“I enjoyed ventilation and rose in rank in that department. It was hands-on; I could see it being built,” Lola says.
That desire to use her hands translated to her out-of-office interests. She did a lot of crafts such as stenciling. She also liked gardening. When she and her husband moved into a house that wasn’t landscaped, they landscaped it, including digging a koi pond.
Lola met her husband of 21 years – “that was the keeper,” she says with a laugh – while working at the shipyard. She raised three children, and has two granddaughters and a grandson.
Woodland Scott Jr.
Woodland Scott isn’t the only one from his family at Walter Reed. A brother lives on another unit, so they are able to see one another frequently.
Mr. Scott visits his brother, who also is a resident at Walter Reed, often.
Originally from Middlesex, Woodland moved after graduating high school and worked for a utility company in Woodbridge, N.J., as an office administrator for more than 20 years. He returned to Virginia after retirement. Three brothers still live in New Jersey.
The Army veteran is a music fan, and going to shows was his favorite form of entertainment while living in New Jersey.
“That was about all we were doing back then, going to shows. Then there was Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight and the Pips … after you get a certain age, they (performer names) don’t come to you as quick,” he says with a chuckle.
He says at Walter Reed, “overall, I like it because they let you just be yourself.
“It took me adjustments when I first got here, but God brought me through it, so I’m all right.”
York Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Charles Ramirez
York resident Charles Ramirez loves music. He often can be found in the activity room, listening to a variety of genres.
You can usually find Charles listening to music somewhere at York.
But his favorite song?
“I don’t know, there are so many of them,” he says. “This might sound crazy, came out in 1961, ‘Moon River’ has always been one of my favorites, written by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer.”
It’s featured in the Audrey Hepburn movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” which inspired a recent tea party at York that Charles enjoyed.
The community King of Valentine’s Day is also is well-versed in local history, having spent most of his time living in Hampton and the Gloucester area. On a trip to the Mariners’ Museum, he shared tidbits about local athletic pros, such as Michael Vick, Ronald Curry and Allen Iverson.
Charles is a veteran, serving in the Navy for four years during the Vietnam War. He is a jack of many trades, having worked as an insurance salesman and security guard before retiring from Canon.
It’s National Nurses Week (May 6-12) and Virginia Health Services would like to introduce you to our Directors of Nursing. The DONs oversee clinical teams at our nursing and rehabilitation centers and our assisted living communities.
This year’s theme is “Nurses Make the Difference,” and according to the American Nurses Association, it is meant to honor “the incredible nurses who embody the spirit of compassion and care in every health care setting.”
Our DONs make a difference daily – to our residents and to their team members. We are thankful for the dedication of our DONs and their leadership across the clinical teams of VHS. They provide guidance, teach and ensure VHS maintains consistent quality care of its patients and residents.
Meet the team
Most of the DONs at Virginia Health Services have been with the organization for more than a decade. Some started as CNAs or LPNs, developing their careers into roles such as MDS, nurse manager and Resident Assessment Coordinator. Others came on as RNs in leadership roles.
As experienced RNs, VHS relies on their expertise in all clinical areas of our nursing and rehabilitation centers.
VHS has seven DONs: Yolanda Carnegie-Chambers (Coliseum); Melissa Liley (James River); LaTasha Muse (Lancashire); Amanda Martinez (Northampton); Toshua Cutler (The Newport and The Huntington); Lana Ketch (Walter Reed); and Desiree L. Plunkett (York and The Hamilton).
We asked them to share mini bios so you can get to know them.
James River Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Melissa Liley, BSN, RN
James River Director of Nursing Melissa Liley
Years of service with Virginia Health Services: 15 years.
What drew you to a nursing career in long-term care? I like creating bonds and relationships with the staff, residents and families.
How would you describe your job in 5 words or less? Industrious but rewarding.
What advice would you give new team members? Maintain a great attitude and be open to change.
What is something you like to do outside of the facility? Spend time with my family.
Lancashire Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
LaTasha Muse, RN
Lancashire Director of Nursing LaTasha Muse
Years of service with Virginia Health Services: 16 years.
What drew you to a nursing career in long-term care? I have always had a love for the elderly and I’m a team player.
How would you describe your job in 5 words or less? Demanding yet rewarding.
What advice would you give new team members? Stay focused and remember why you chose the job — no matter how hard it may seem.
What is something you like to do outside of the facility? I enjoy spending time with family and friends.
Northampton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Amanda Martinez, RN
Northampton Director of Nursing Amanda Martinez
Years of service with Virginia Health Services: 16 years.
What drew you to a nursing career in long-term care? I have worked most of my nursing career in long-term care, starting out as a CNA and grew from there.
How would you describe your job in 5 words or less? Extremely challenging, but also rewarding.
What advice would you give new team members? You have to have an open mind, be willing to learn something new every day, and be able to put yourself in the resident’s shoes – they need us to care for them, they depend on us – always keep that as your reasons why.
What is something you like to do outside of the facility? I LOVE the gym! I enjoy strength training and weight lifting. It has become part of my normal outside of work. I always say it’s my therapy; the way that I decompress from my day-to-day.
Walter Reed Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Lana Ketch, RN
Walter Reed Director of Nursing Lana Ketch
Years of service with Virginia Health Services: Employed since 1995. I started out as an LPN and completed my RN degree in 2018 while maintaining full time status.
What drew you to a nursing career in long-term care? My great grandma received home health services and I was fascinated with the kind and compassionate care she received from the nurses. I also saw the joy and appreciation she had for the nurses and the care they gave. She would always say “not just anybody is cut out to be a nurse.” I truly believe that and it takes a lot of patience, compassion, empathy, and a love for people. I love the geriatric population and feel we have so much to learn from them. To see a resident make progress after an unfortunate event and the smiles on their faces makes my heart happy.
How would you describe your job in 5 words or less? “Best decision I ever made.” (Although very stressful, very rewarding as well.)
What advice would you give new team members? Come to work with a positive attitude and do your best to make your residents feel safe and loved. Even the smallest gestures can make their day. As I said to the last graduating CNA class, “If you go home after a long shift and know that you put a smile on your resident’s face, shared their joy in an accomplishment, or made them feel special, then you have done your job and it was a great day!”
What is something you like to do outside of the facility? Love spending time with family, DIY projects, bowling with my friends on a league, being the cheerleader for my daughter who is currently in nursing school, and following my favorite baseball team (New York Yankees).
DONs at Coliseum, The Newport and York
Coliseum Director of Nursing Yolanda Carnegie-Chambers, RN, joined the Virginia Health Service team in 2015 as the DON. Throughout her 25-year nursing career, she has served in many roles such as a floor nurse, supervisor, educator and Director of Nursing. Long-term care is her passion and she has worked with the elderly population for over 20 years. When she is not working, she enjoys spending quality time with her family.
Desiree Plunkett, RN, oversees the clinical team at York Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (since 2015) and The Hamilton Assisted Living (since it opened in 2018).
Toshua Cutler, RN, BSN, is the Director of Nursing at The Newport Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and The Huntington Assisted Living. She has been with VHS for about 20 years and her roles within the organization include Resident Assessment Coordinator (MDS), supervisor, charge nurse and floor nurse. Prior to joining VHS, Toshua worked as an LPN at another long-term care facility. She graduated with her associate’s (ADN) in nursing from ECPI University and decided to further her education and graduated with her BSN in nursing from ECPI. In her spare time, she loves to travel, shop, and enjoys spending time with her granddaughter, who brings great joy to her life.
Coliseum DON Yolanda Carnegie-ChambersYork and Hamilton DON Desiree L. PlunkettThe Newport and Huntington DON Toshua Cutler
Join our team
Our Directors of Nursing are always on the lookout for quality candidates for our CNA, LPN and RN openings. Career paths with VHS include MDS, Resident Assessment Coordinator, nurse manager, nurse scheduler, assistant director of nursing, certified wound care and infection prevention. If this might be a fit for you, visit vahs.com/careers to learn more and apply.
Thank you to the Virginia Health Services team of nurses!
We are celebrating National Nurses Week (May 6-12) by thanking our entire nursing team and showing our appreciation for all they do.
The VHS nursing team builds relationships with our residents and patients to provide the highest level of quality care possible.
To celebrate, there will be food and other treats, gifts, and additional appreciation opportunities during National Skilled Nursing Care Week (May 12-18). VHS does what it can to recognize our nurses throughout the year.
Director of Nursing Rebecca Boyd
“Nurses often are underappreciated,” says VHS Vice President of Nursing Rebecca Boyd. “And it’s a hard job.”
Nurses are not only caregivers in VHS communities, they often are also caregivers in their own homes and are the first call for family members seeking medical advice or opinions.
“You wind up being a resource to everyone. It’s why we do what we do,” Rebecca says. “We do care about people. Our nurses want to give of their time. When you give and you give, you kind of empty out.
“Our job is to fill our nurses back up and remind them what they do matters every day. They are making a difference. They’re changing a life. Those small acts of kindness that half the time they’re not even cognizant of, but it makes an impact and it has a bearing on someone else’s life.”
National Nurses Week is celebrated the same dates each May, as May 12 marks the late Florence Nightingale’s birthday. The week has been supported and promoted by the American Nurses Association (ANA) since 1896.
Why choose a nursing career in long-term care?
There are several advantages to choose being a nurse in a long-term care setting, Rebecca says.
“Long-term care in nursing gives you an opportunity to develop relationships with the patients – you can really make an impact,” she says.
It’s meaningful work – and one with many opportunities for career growth and advancement.
“In the hospital, you typically see patients briefly. It’s quick in, quick out. … In long-term care, you have the opportunity to know the resident, to know the family member and make an impact in their life. If they’re a skilled care resident, you help them get back to their home environment. Help them regain their confidence and skills they need to get back to their home environment. That’s very rewarding for our nurses,” Rebecca says.
“For our long-term residents, you can have the opportunity to make an impact and be there at the end of their life. That is very purposeful for staff. Families will remember something very small I did at their bedside 20 years, but it made an impact for them. I think that’s why a lot of our nurses choose long-term care, because of relationships.”
Nursing career paths with VHS
Virginia Health Services employs a team of CNAs, LPNs and RNs, and regularly has openings. VHS also offers an earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship that graduates Care Assistants to Nurse Aides and covers the cost of the state certification exam to be a CNA. Courses are available on the Peninsula and in Gloucester, Virginia. Many students have gone on to nursing school to be LPNs and RNs.
Our CNAs spend a majority of the time with our nursing and rehabilitation centers’ residents. They help get them ready for the day – or in the evening for bed, and going to and from meals and activities. CNAs are the eyes and ears for the nursing team to provide daily assessment of a patient’s well-being.
Rebecca says LPNs and RNs get involved in the residents’ medical needs.
“Oftentimes, they’re the go between for families and providers,” she says. “They can definitely influence the care that’s given.”
For RNs, there are advancement opportunities in long-term care that aren’t available in other healthcare settings.
Career paths in long-term care nursing
There are many different avenues to keep fresh when you’re a nurse in a nursing and rehabilitation center. Those include:
MDS Coordinator, which drives the quality measures and level of care, as well as drives reimbursement to ensure VHS can provide the care and services needed. Coordinators have to dive deep to see what those patient diagnoses are to determine level of care.
Certified wound care nurses are a needed specialty. “We deal with chronic-type wounds, surgical wounds that won’t heal. We have to be specialized in wound care and be on the cutting-edge of wound products,” Rebecca says.
IV management is key. There are many patients on IV antibiotics and other IV treatments that must be managed daily.
Leadership opportunities in management positions such as director and assistant director of nursing and administrator. Several of the DONs in VHS have come from MDS roles; the same is true of our administrators. Many started as CNAs or floor nurses – that foundation where you learn a lot about the resident, Rebecca says.
There are also opportunities to move into nurse education roles. Director of Education Princess Henderson started in the CNA class with VHS in 2008. “It’s all about education, education, education,” Rebecca says. “The need for continuing education of the staff is vital to providing quality care. … A majority of our CNAs are coming from the six-week apprenticeship program. A lot of their education has to be on the job. It relies a lot on the nurses who already are part of the structure to provide that education.”
There are opportunities to provide education within each facility, starting with infection preventionists.
Join our team!
We are hiring for all positions, including CNAs, LPNs and RNs.
VHS Home Health Care and VHS Hospice also have openings for nurses. Short-term contracts also are available for nursing positions.
VHS offers competitive wages and benefits, flexible scheduling, bonuses, early wage access, training and development opportunities, and more. Visit vahs.com/careers to apply today.
We also offer an earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship program that graduates Care Assistants to Nurse Aides and covers the cost of the state certification exam to be a CNA. Available dates, details and application links are at vahs.com/apprenticeship.
Classes are offered in Newport News/Hampton and Gloucester, Virginia, throughout the year, and graduates go on to work at VHS nursing and rehabilitation centers. Graduates have moved into roles such as recreational therapy or continued employment while attending nursing school.
Stephanie Johnston has joined the Virginia Health Services team as Executive Director of Senior Living. She is responsible for establishing the strategic direction to achieve operational excellence at The Hamilton & The Huntington Assisted Living and The Arbors Independent Living.
Stephanie has more than 20 years of sales and operations experience in various industries, including mortgage, residential and commercial real estate investing, telecom, and commercial lumber. She grew her passion in senior living for nearly six years in a sales leadership role, providing strategic support and training for 38 communities before joining VHS.
“It’s an honor to serve others. If you lead with a caring heart, and an open mind, you will make a difference,” she says.
Her previous experience in senior living included a lot of travel – sometimes up to 4,500 miles a month by car, plus flights – but she says it also allowed her to help the sales team and be closely connected to the operations side to help offer the best first impression and experience to residents. She also assisted with caregiver education and dementia training for team members.
Stephanie says she is excited to use the depth and breadth of her experience to help build the VHS senior living team to be the best it can be.
“Everyone has a different skill set and so it’s about taking what’s exciting for them and motivating them to grow what they currently experience day-to-day and bring in their personal passion,” she says.
Resident experience
When it comes to senior living, it’s all about providing the best experience that’s personalized to the residents. Whether it’s learning of a resident’s favorite meal that will provide comfort or a family story, Stephanie says engagement and communication for peace of mind are key.
“It’s our honor to be able to care for them and allow them to live their best life,” she says.
Solid wellness and dining and nutrition programs, engaging activities and events, and making sure residents feel independent to “continue to be who they are in their everyday life and allow their life history to flourish” factor into a well-rounded resident experience, she says.
“We want to make sure we’re impacting their health in a positive way,” she says. Having VHS Rehabilitation within the team allows a streamlined and convenient option for care.
“It’s our honor to be able to care for them and allow them to live their best life.”
Stephanie Johnston, VHS Executive Director of Senior Living
All can be achieved, she says, by helping keep familiarity for the residents. “We have to ask questions of families to help orientate a resident when they come in to provide a sense of comfort and peace. Knowing a favorite meal or type of music and offering it can set the tone to make them feel the most comfortable when they move in and call us their home.”
Utilizing monthly resident council meetings to be sure residents have a voice and input into menus, calendars, community projects and more also can help the team improve the resident experience.
Background
Stephanie graduated from ECPI with a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner. The Virginia native resides in Gloucester with her husband. She has a daughter who is a Gloucester County Sheriff’s deputy. She says they enjoy “country living,” which includes spending quality time with family, exploring with her Boxer and enjoying nature. Stephanie also is new to gardening – “trying to find my green thumb,” she says.
Senior living with VHS
Virginia Health Services offers senior living options in Newport News and York County.
When the responsibilities of home ownership become too much, The Arbors Independent Living offers a maintenance-free lifestyle with private apartments, inclusive dining, events and activities, and personal transportation. Also included are valet parking, concierge service, housekeeping and linen service — all without a costly entrance fee. Schedule a tour of The Arbors.
VHS assisted living communities, The Huntington and The Hamilton, provide a safe environment when an individual needs extra assistance with their healthcare needs. A nursing team is available 24/7 to residents, and private apartments are designed for safety and ease. Dining, activities, housekeeping and more are included, without an entrance fee.
Our team and communities appreciate the support of a network of volunteers who provide companionship, assistance and support to our residents, their loved ones and the staff. During National Volunteer Week, we are recognizing a few volunteers who have made a difference to our communities.
Virginia Health Services is lucky to have so many volunteers who give their time to our communities. Last year we highlighted those who provide church services at Coliseum, long-time volunteer at Walter Reed Ray Agtay, quilter and volunteer extraordinaire Gala Damato at The Hamilton Assisted Living, and Martha and Jerry Dodson at The Huntington Assisted Living, who do a craft each month with the residents.
Volunteers from Therapy Dogs International are so giving of their time, and their pets, visiting residents at several of our communities weekly. Master Gardeners from Hampton, Newport News and Walter Reed do craft sessions monthly with residents at Northampton, James River and Walter Reed.
There are many churches and individuals who host services, Bible studies and gospel music sessions across our communities.
At Northampton, Wanda has called Bingo for 32 years. She previously worked in the dietary department. “I love it,” she said.
We can’t do what we do without the kindness of our volunteers. Thank you to all who take the time!
Here are a few more volunteer stories:
THE HAMILTON ASSISTED LIVING
Dottie James
Dottie James started volunteering to lead Bible study shortly after The Hamilton opened. Her aunt had moved in and shared with Dottie she missed church and Bible study.
“God kind of tapped me on the shoulder and said, ‘you can do something about that,’” Dottie said.
She had led a Bible study group at The since, with a brief hiatus at the start of the COVID-19 outbreak and to deal with a personal health issue. She has led the group in-person and virtually in that time.
“I made the decision to do this for my aunt,” Dottie said. “I will come as long as I can be here.”
She has led Bible study, written Bible studies for her church and helped teach the upcoming group of leaders. She feels called to provide Bible study to those who need it off campus.
“These women miss church. They miss the fellowship of their church circles. They miss all of that,” Dottie said. “This gives them a chance. I’ve seen community build within this group and I love that.”
Bible study leader Dottie James
She said she teaches straight from the Bible – the group picks the book they want to go through.
“I try to teach everything in context. When there are places different churches may interpret differently, we acknowledge that and I have them share ‘what’s your experience with this topic,’” she said.
One resident has been with the group since foundation.
“The people here, the residents here are wonderful. They’re a little bit invisible in the community, but they have value, worth, they’re worth knowing and spending time with, and I love that I get to do that,” Dottie said.
“It’s a very supportive, welcoming place to volunteer. Kirstie is nothing short of amazing, she has so much energy. I appreciate all the support she gives to gather the women and help them get to the activity room for Bible study.”
Dottie has lived primarily on the Peninsula, and originally is from Newport News. She attended college at Virginia Tech and taught high school math in southwestern Virginia for two years before moving back east.
Dottie also is a creative person who likes to create using paper medium. She was one of seven original founders of Blue Skies Gallery in downtown Hampton, and was involved for seven years.
“I’m very proud we created something that’s still there,” she said. While it has changed formats over the years, its main concentration is still on displaying work by local artists.
LANCASHIRE NURSING AND REHABILITATION CENTER
Joyce Taylor
The residents at Lancashire love volunteer Joyce Taylor, and the feeling is mutual.
Joyce is a daily presence at Lancashire, volunteering for just about any activity, including Bingo and wine and cheese tastings. The former Lancashire dietary team member also occasionally eats lunch with a group of residents.
Volunteer Joyce Taylor always can be found with the residents.
If she isn’t there, the residents will request Activity Director Amber Watson call and encourage her to visit.
“She’s like family,” Amber says.
The Lancaster County native is typically at Lancashire from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. most days.
“She’s a big help with everything,” Administrator Amy Payne says.
WALTER REED NURSING AND REHABILITATION CENTER
Kristy Gust
Kristy Gust has volunteered with Walter Reed for almost three years. What started as having Bible study with a friend who was a resident has grown to weekly Bible study sessions held in the dining room.
Fishers for Men Ministries also developed about three years ago, led by Kristy and Pastor D. “It blew up. God has expanded the territory,” Kristy said.
Supported by Petsworth Baptist Church and other church partners, the ministry offers two outreach events at Walter Reed each year. The group is hosting a “yard sale” for residents, plus food from Scoot’s BBQ, sno-cones and bluegrass music, on Saturday, April 27.
Kristy said the “yard sale” items are donated by church members and are free to residents. Once everyone has shopped, the “sale” is open to Walter Reed team members.
“We want to get them outside to do something they normally wouldn’t be able to do,” Kristy said. “We love, love, love those residents. They’re precious to god and they’re precious to us. … Also, the team does such a phenomenal job taking care of the residents. I know all of them by name and it’s a joy to work with them.”
Fishers of Men Ministries also hosts a holiday party for residents, their loved ones and the Walter Reed team. Kristy and Pastor D also do Bible study at the men’s and women’s prisons in Henrico and do street ministry at the bus station in Richmond.
Following a long illness, Kristy says she was saved and born again four years ago.
“I want to do what God’s called me to do now – love God and love people,” she said, adding volunteering is “something that more people should get involved with – it’s a blessing in blessing others, and brings deep sense of fulfillment when you can help somebody else.”
During events, several others from the church volunteer at Walter Reed.
“We’re thankful to be there. It’s a privilege and honor to work with them,” she said. “I look forward to being there and look forward to these outreaches.”
YORK NURSING AND REHABILITATION CENTER
George Conway
You can find George Conway at York almost every afternoon. He visits his wife and also volunteers with the recreational therapy team to provide companionship and support for the residents.
He has a drawer of tools to do odd jobs around the activity room, including fixing bookcases. And he builds the frames for the residents’ completed puzzles to be displayed. There are several hanging on the walls of the activity room and in the dining room. Some are hung in resident rooms as well.
George Conway spends time daily at York, to visit his wife and other residents. He also builds frames for puzzles and other handyman help.
“I was here and I like working with people, being around people – and they needed some help in here,” he says of volunteering at York. “Just trying to make life more comfortable for (the residents). They don’t have anywhere else to be, why not make it more comfortable for them.”
No stranger to volunteering, George spent 32 years with Odyssey of the Mind as a judge and problem-solver (ending his run as state problem-solver). He was pulled out of retirement this year to be a judge. He also was a docent at Virginia Air and Space Center for about seven years and volunteered at Animal Aid Society no-kill shelter in Hampton for 10 years.
Fort Monroe was the final assignment for the retired Army lieutenant colonel – who did tours in Vietnam and Korea. He and his wife settled their family in York County because he was done moving around.
“People need people – and a lot of these folks don’t have anybody,” he said. “I try to come in and make them smile. I don’t stay very long, but I’m here every day for a couple of hours.”
VHS HOSPICE
Our VHS Hospice team is recruiting volunteers to help provide comfort and compassion to the individuals in their care and their loved ones.
“It’s really a privilege to work with these individuals,” says Julie, who has volunteered with Hospice for about six years.
VHS Hospice social worker and volunteer coordinator Ariane Minette says the team provides all training, including study guides and discussion of scenarios. Volunteering is about 90% companionship, she says.
“Volunteers should have empathy and commitment to the individuals and their families. We’re looking for people who want to engage with others,” she says.
Hospice is recruiting in all communities across the Peninsula, Williamsburg, York County and the Gloucester area. There are also opportunities to volunteer in the Hospice office, answering phones and responding to emails.
“We are very grateful for whatever time can be given,” Ariane says.
If being a volunteer with VHS Hospice is of interest to you, visit vahs.com/hospice-volunteer to learn more.
Volunteer with VHS
All of Virginia Health Services’ communities are happy to accept volunteers.
Church and youth groups, school service organizations, Greek life and other college organizations, and individuals are needed to help facilitate activities and provide social interaction and support to Residents.
VHS Hospice also is looking for volunteers interested in assisting those in end-of-life care and their caregivers.
Contact the community nearest you to apply and discuss options with our team.
Eight apprentices graduated from Care Assistant to Nurse Aide during a ceremony Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the Employment, Education and Enrichment (EEE) Center. The earn-as-you-learn apprenticeship program also covers the cost of the state certification exam to be a CNA. This cohort featured four graduates with military ties, recruited in partnership with Hamilton-Ryker.
The six-week course includes classwork with 14 tests, learning 22 skills, and on-the-floor experience with patients at James River Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Instructor Nora Gillespie, RN, refers to the class as “boot camp,” which was even more fitting given the students’ military connections.
Valedictorian Marie Ann Thomas is a member of the Air Force and took the class as part of the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program, which helps military members transition to civilian life. A former dental technician, Marie “fell into taking care of people,” said Director of Education Princess Henderson, RN, BSN.
Two graduates, Jazmin Brown and Mitsy-Ann Green-Dawkins, are spouses of service members. Mitsy-Ann’s husband returned from a six-month deployment with the Air Force days earlier and attended the graduation ceremony.
Aldeen Stupart was referred to as the “class mom,” but also is the mother of service members.
The class
The new Nurse Aides will continue employment with VHS and work at The Newport, Northampton and Coliseum Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers.
Nora said they “successfully conquered the class – together. This group of ladies helped each other get across the finish line.”
Jazmin came to class with a background in healthcare working at an assisted living. She soon learned, Princess said, long-term care can be a different experience. Jazmin relearned techniques based on Virginia requirements, with a smile, Nora said, and has eyes on nursing school.
Salutatorian Deniece Corbin “excelled in the class and on the floor,” Princess said. Deniece also was taking classes at night in nursing school. “This class will make you a better nurse,” Nora told her.
Aida Davila started with VHS as assistant activity director at Coliseum, where she worked with former apprentice student and All-Star Shawn Hill. She sought out Princess to enroll in the class.
“Shawn prepared you. You stepped in with a positive attitude and maturity,” Nora said. Princess also praised Aida’s time management with residents, excelling in the clinical setting.
Jacqueline Eadie is also a student at Hampton University and will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in bio science in May. “You stepped up to the plate and this class supported you. You found comfort in them,” Nora said.
Mitsy-Ann was managing her family in addition to the class. Both instructors called her humble and said she looked out for her peers. “She returned to CNA classes for a reason – she really makes an impact on residents,” Princess said, adding one resident made sure even the James River administrator knew what a wonderful caretaker Mitsy is.
Princia Hounounou moved to Virginia recently and had a “smooth, gentle presence on the floor,” Princess said.
“Young, but mature, poised and determined,” Nora said. Princia earned Princess’s Champion Award for showing the most growth and improvement throughout the course of the class.
Aldeen “likes to keep her hands busy,” Princess said. She brought past healthcare experience to the table and gained confidence in her return to learning.
Marie is organized, Nora said, and carried that through in everything she did. “You have the heart and compassion, plus the skills to go with it,” Nora said.
“The residents wanted you there,” Nora told the class. “Lead with your heart and follow with your skill. We are very proud.”
Valedictorian speech
Marie delivered remarks to her classmates and instructors. She also presented yellow friendship roses to her fellow graduates.
“Most of you were also working other jobs, or going to school, or doing both – I was so impressed. I’m proud, and I hope you all are too,” Marie said.
Marie Ann Thomas shares valedictorian remarks with the class.
“Thanks to the instructors,” she said turning to Nora and Princess. “You can tell how much heart they both have and it really makes this class. You come here and feel they love what they do.”
She said she and her classmates would come off a shift on the floor and talk about what they could do better – to be better – to bring joy and make peoples’ lives better. She added she was amazed by the age differences among the class.
“We really did come together … I was blown away by all of you,” Marie said.
Valedictorian Marie Ann Thomas passes out yellow friendship roses to her classmates.
Instructor gifts
The students turned the tables on the instructors at the end of the ceremony, presenting Nora and Princess with glass “best teacher” awards.
Deniece presented Nora’s gift, saying, “We love you. … I really will carry what you taught us for the rest of my life.”
The students presented “best teacher” awards to Director of Education Princess Henderson and instructor Nora Gillespie.
Following a group hug, there were more tears as Aldeen presented Princess with her glass award.
“We want to express how much we appreciate you. You made us realize that we have the courage and confidence to pursue our dreams. … You have prepared us for the world. … There is a saying, ‘a good teacher can awaken joy in their students and make a positive impression that can last a lifetime.’”
Next up
In addition to working with VHS, the graduates will participate in review sessions and schedule their certification exams with the state board.
“This was an exceptional class,” Princess said. “Use this as a stepping stone. I hope I can inspire you to go as far as you want in nursing. The sky is the limit.”
Join the team
The apprenticeship program classes on the Peninsula and Gloucester begin at the end of April. Applications will open for the Peninsula June 24-August 1 class in late May and the Gloucester July 22-August 29 class in June. Visit vahs.com/apprenticeship to learn more and apply.
Keeping our residents healthy in every aspect is a priority for Virginia Health Services. As we celebrate National Nutrition Month and recognize National Registered Dietitian Day, it’s important to understand nutrition is a critical component of health and wellness of all residents in the long-term care setting.
“Nutrition affects every part of the body and all of its functions,” says VHS Director of Dining and Nutrition Christina Lewis. “For residents with chronic health conditions, nutrition plays a vital role in the treatment of those conditions and the prevention of further complications.
“For residents recovering from illnesses, injuries or surgeries, good nutrition can help them regain their strength and stamina more quickly.”
VHS has a team of Registered Dietitian (RDs) who assess our residents and work with the nursing staff and dietary team (who are celebrated during Healthcare Food Service Workers Week in October) to administer medical nutrition therapy for residents, assist food and nutrition service directors with special diets and menus, and conduct regular sanitation audits.
Our team, led by Christina, include three contracted RDs and full-time team member Pamela “Ela” Bowen, who works with residents at The Hamilton Assisted Living, and York and Lancashire Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers.
From VHS intern to Registered Dietician
In her role, Ela works closely with York/Hamilton dining director Nicole Freeman. She is familiar with Nicole, who served as Ela’s preceptor during her internship en route to becoming a RD with VHS.
Ela Bowen started as a dietetic tech with VHS, then an intern before joining the team as a registered dietitian.
“She always made sure whatever we had to accomplish, there was a way to accomplish it. I always felt supported. She guided and worked with me to get done what I needed to get done. It gave me a lot of peace to know someone was in my corner,” Ela says of working with Nicole.
Ela was a dietetic tech with VHS, which led to finding preceptors within the organization to help her complete internship hours to graduate the program at Virginia Tech and prepare her for the certification exam. She graduated in May 2023 and started full-time with our team.
“I’m appreciative of the opportunity Virginia Health Services gave me to be an intern, prior as a tech, and now as an RDN,” Ela says. “It’s nice being able to step back into a familiar position coming right out of passing my exam.”
She was given a good foundation with VHS and feels like she learns something new every day.
Keeping tabs
While assisted living communities need bi-annual reports on special diets and weight loss/gain, nursing home regulations are more frequent.
Ela’s main responsibilities are charting on new resident admissions, marking significant changes for weight losses monthly, preparing quarterly reports, seeing residents about potential special needs or dietitian consults at nurse practioners’ requests. There are regular resident assessments of food intake, diet, weight management, changes in skin integrity, monitoring of supplements, and swallowing or chewing problems.
She has weekly meetings with the York nursing staff to keep proactive monitoring of residents’ nutritional needs.
“We’re really working as a team to try to proactively make sure we’re on top of residents not losing weight, which can add to other issues, such as skin integrity,” Ela says. “I’m excited to be part of the team to make sure residents have the best care they can.”
VHS Director of Dining and Nutrition Christina Lewis hosts a healthy cooking demonstration at The Arbors Independent Living.
Good nutrition key
Not enough protein or lack of certain nutrition can affect skin integrity and lead to wounds, Ela says.
“Our role is to provide preferences, fortified foods and supplements to increase residents’ protein intake.”
That also includes menu planning, which Christina oversees.
“As many residents make their home with us, it is also important to consider their food preferences along with their nutritional needs. Providing meals that are tasty as well as nutritious is what we strive for every day,” Christina says.
A basket of healthy foods for your mind, such as leafy greens, oats, whole grain bread, extra virgin olive oil and fresh berries.
Ela says she was drawn to a profession in nutrition when her granddad had cancer.
“I wondered if having certain nutrition or a specific diet would help prevent certain diseases. It’s what triggered wanting to be a dietitian,” she says.
Ela says meeting residents is her favorite part of the job. She has a good teacher in Nicole.
“One of the reasons I wanted to be here is that she really knows her residents. And that takes time to acquire. That’s been really helpful,” Ela says. “Because she was a really good preceptor, I wanted to work hand-in-hand with her as I was learning to be the best dietitian I could be.”
Join our team
We have career pathways in our dietary department across the organization. Search our listings and apply at vahs.com/careers.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Accept
