Orange Grove, Chattanooga State celebrates new CNAs

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Orange Grove and Chattanooga State came together to celebrate the new class of Certified Nursing Assistants on Friday. 

“In January of this year, we launched a CNA course in conjunction with Chattanooga State, and today is our first annual pinning ceremony for all of the CNAs that were direct support professionals at Orange Grove, and have now went through the state of Tennessee curriculum and have passed the state exam to become certified CNAs,” said Tera Roberts, CEO of Orange Grove Center. 

In the first year of Chattanooga State’s CNA training program at Orange Grove, more than 25 students graduated. 

The program featured an intensive two-week course involving classroom and experiential learning. 

Roberts considers it a privilege to see caregivers complete this program. 

“Orange Grove hires 550 caregivers in Chattanooga, and for our caregivers to want to become elevated in their skill sets and in their knowledge, and to go through this rigorous curriculum is really something to celebrate,” said Roberts

As apart of the CNA course, students were required to take the State of Tennessee CNA Licensure Exams. 

Bo Drake, with Chattanooga State says by accomplishing the CNA program, students are prepared for the workforce. 

“Not only is it workforce for Orange Grove, but it is helping create economic opportunity for people in our community. It is really a win, win,” said Drake. 

Orange Grove believes it is vital to offer support to those in the community. 

Lacretia Butler plans to use her nursing certification to help patients in years to come. 

“It feels very rewarding and I feel accomplished it was challenging due to it being a three week class, but I pushed through it, and I feel good and I am ready to get out there to assist patients and their lives every day,” said Butler.