Topeka Presbyterian Manor looks to boost staffing with CNA class

Like many industries, health care has experienced recent staffing challenges. Topeka Presbyterian Manor is no different, so a couple of members of the team found a creative solution.

This winter, Presbyterian Manor offered a no-cost certified nursing assistant (CNA) course that was open to members of the wider Topeka community. Three students are currently enrolled in the program.

“We see a need for CNAs in our community, and we saw this as a way to meet that need,” said Jolene Zirkle, the director of human resources at Presbyterian Manor. It’s the first class of this kind that has been held on the campus in many years. The students who complete their certification will be offered positions on the senior living community’s nursing team.

Betsy Geddes and Deb Hestermann, both PMMA employees, taught the CNA class. Deb works as the infection control specialist on our campus, and Betsy is the regional clinical director for the senior living community.

According to Jolene, this “homegrown” approach is part of the larger employee culture at Presbyterian Manor.

“We have a lot of opportunities for growth here,” she said. “We encourage our employees to take those opportunities.”

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