Tabitha Names Nursing Student Program Participants

Tabitha is proud to recognize the following TEAMembers on their acceptance into the all-new Nursing Student Program for the July-December 2020 session: Jordan Huskey, Alicia Kreutzer, Anna Olderbak, Gracie Ring, Taylor Rosacker, Anna Swartzlander, Mikaela Waltemath and Kristen Zeleny.

The Nursing Student Program was created to provide financial aid to Tabitha TEAMembers enrolled in nursing school. To be eligible, participants must be strong role models of Tabitha’s Live2Care Culture with excellent attendance and a “C” grade or higher in their nursing courses.

The financial reward is per semester, not to exceed out-of-pocket tuition and increases based on years of service at Tabitha and hours worked. It’s open to any TEAMember pursing a nursing degree in the 28 Nebraska counties Tabitha serves.

To learn more about the program and apply, visit www.Tabitha.org/Student or contact Robin Schoettlin, Director, Workforce Development at 402.486.8533 or Robin.Schoettlin@Tabitha.org.  

About the Participants

Jordan Huskey, a resident assistant at Tabitha Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (TNRC) in Lincoln, is studying in the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program at Southeast Community College (SCC). She plans to pursue her Registered Nurse (RN) degree. “I love the impact I have at my current job and the relationships I get to build,” Jordan said. “I want to further my career to have a greater impact on those needing care.”

Alicia Kreutzer, resident assistant at TNRC, is also working toward her LPN at SCC, with RN aspirations. She credits several of the TNRC nurse managers for leading her and teaching her how to work as a team. “I really love the people I work with at Tabitha and the atmosphere,” Alicia shared. “Also, I love the residents that I’ve gotten to bond with and the goals of Tabitha.”

Anna Olderbak, resident assistant at TNRC, is working toward her associate’s degree in nursing (ADN-RN) at SCC. When asked why she’s pursuing a nursing career, Anna explained, “I enjoy helping people and making a difference.” Her classes are already helping her make an impact toward Tabitha’s purpose. “Being mindful of different situations and backgrounds can help people live joyfully and age gratefully.”

Gracie Ring, resident assistant at TNRC, is studing for her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing (BSN-RN) at Nebraska Wesleyan University, with the ultimate goal to continue on to be a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). “My education has taught me that there is more to nursing than what people see,” Gracie shared. “Nurses are there for the good and bad, helping people become happier and see the good in life.”

Taylor Rosacker, resident assistant at Tabitha Residences—Main Campus in Lincoln, is studying at Bryan Colllege of Health Sciences for her BSN-RN. She is following in the footsteps of her mom, also an RN, and was drawn to all the different career paths for nurses. “I focus on the well-being of Tabitha residents and strive to do the most I can so that each day is great for them,” Taylor said. “Working as a CNA has reassured me that I chose the right career path, as I love coming to work and working with them, hoping that I can make their lives and days better in any way possible.”

Anna Swartzlander, a TNRC RN, attends the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) where she’s studying for her Master’s of Science in nursing. She’s been in nursing for 16 years and now wants to continue on to become an NP for the adult and geriatric population and eventually to open her own practice specializing in geriatric and memory care. She was very close with her grandparents and aims to treat each resident as she would’ve wanted them to be treated. “Making people content to the best of my ability makes sense to me,” Anna stated, “And it brings me joy.”

Mikaela Waltemath, also a TNRC resident assistant, is studying for her BSN-RN at Bryan College of Health Sciences. Having lost her father at a young age, she credits his nurses and her mother for pointing her toward a nursing career. “I love caring for people and helping people in times of need,” Mikaela beamed. “I love being there for them when they need someone to lean on.”

Kristen Zeleny, resident assistant at Tabitha’s Journey House for end-of-life care in Lincoln, is attending SCC to work for her ADN-RN with the ultimate goal of becoming an NP. She credits Tabitha LPN Tami Girard for helping her build her confidence and pursue opportunities within the organization. “Nursing took over my heart from day one,” Kristen shared. “I love using my talents to benefit people’s lives and am looking forward to furthering my career, so I can better serve them.”