From Strangers to Future Caregivers: Inside Lutheran SeniorLife’s CNA Training Program

Four women walked into a classroom five weeks ago as strangers. On graduation day, they stood together as future caregivers, surrounded by the people who believed in them every step of the way

These four women are the most recent graduates of Lutheran SeniorLife’s Certified Nursing Assistant training program. With just one state competency exam remaining, they are now one step away from becoming certified CNAs. In many ways, however, they have already become what they set out to be: caregivers shaped by commitment, growth, and heart.

Asya Arutyunyan, Ashley Brewer, Madison Leightley, and Breonna Sullivan arrived with different backgrounds, different experiences, and different reasons for choosing healthcare. What they shared was a willingness to learn and a desire to serve. Over five demanding weeks, that shared purpose became a bond built through long days, hands-on training, steady encouragement, and moments of progress that added up quickly.

Their instructor, Sierra Hans, Nurse Aide Trainee, guided them through every step.

“This program is not easy,” Hans told them. “You learned skills that require precision, patience, and professionalism. You learned how to care for people on some of their hardest days. Most importantly, you learned that being a nurse aide is about dignity, respect, and human connection.”

She watched their confidence grow in real time.

“Asya, you brought dedication, focus, and quiet determination,” she said. “Ashley, your warmth and compassion shine through. Madison, your intelligence and energy lifted this class. Breonna, watching your confidence grow has been incredible.”

Each graduate brought their own story into the room.

For Madison Leightley, the journey began two years earlier when she became a caretaker with LIFE Armstrong.

“A little over two years ago, I was unsure of what I wanted for my future,” she shared. “I realized this is not just a job to me, but a passion. Having the ability to help the ones who need you most is honestly a blessing.”

She spoke about how meaningful simple moments have become, especially the appreciation she receives each day.

“The thank yous and compliments you receive daily put a different kind of happy in your heart,” she said.

Ashley Brewer, known affectionately as “Pinky” for her signature pink hair, brought warmth, humor, and honesty to the ceremony. She currently works in in-home care for LIFE Beaver County and credits her career path to family experiences and years of caregiving.

“After nearly 20 years of being a caregiver, I can finally say I did it,” she said. “It’s been a pleasure to learn together, to laugh together, and sometimes to struggle together. We did it.”

Ashley’s journey began at home, helping her mother care for her sister and later witnessing care that she felt fell short.

“Nobody should feel desperate for quality care,” she shared. “That’s what pushed me to do better.”

Breonna Sullivan discovered her calling while working in a nursing home.

“That’s when I realized, ‘Okay, I want to do this,’” she said.

Throughout the program, her confidence grew steadily. Known among her classmates for helping keep the mood light, she balanced hard work with encouragement. Having her family present at graduation made the moment especially meaningful.

“It feels comforting to have them here supporting me,” she said.

For Asya Arutyunyan, graduation represented the fulfillment of a long-held dream.

“This is my dream,” she said. “I am so happy I came to Lutheran SeniorLife. Thank you to my teacher.”

During the ceremony, President and CEO David Fenoglietto reminded the graduates of the responsibility and opportunity they now carry.

“You are ambassadors for healthcare and compassionate service,” he said. “You represent not only yourselves, but every team member who works to build trust with those we serve. You are part of something larger. You are part of a team.”

He encouraged them to lead with integrity and humility.

“Do not forget to laugh along the way,” he added. “But most importantly, respect each other and show integrity to everyone.”

Hans closed the ceremony by returning to what matters most in healthcare.

“In healthcare, skills matter,” she said. “But heart matters just as much. And each of you has both.”

This class is the first of six CNA training cohorts Lutheran SeniorLife will graduate this year, reflecting the organization’s continued investment in developing compassionate, skilled caregivers. The next class begins March 4.

For Asya, Ashley, Madison, and Breonna, graduation marks both an ending and a beginning. One exam remains, and many challenges still lie ahead. But they move forward ready, prepared to serve with skill and compassion, and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they will one day care for.