Scholarship Winners 2024

LONG TERM CARE FINANCE ASSOCIATION'S
SCHOLARSHIPS WINNERS 2024, IN MEMORY OF KEVIN J. BUCKLEY

In memory of and honor to our long time board member, Kevin J. Buckley we are naming our three annual scholarships in his name. Kevin was a Board member of LTCFA from 2005 until his passing in December of 2020.

Also present are Sue Foster, her Resident Care Director, and Sue Strandberg, Director of Mission Integration and Workforce Development
Christina Bonah.. Also present are Sue Foster, her Resident Care Director, and Sue Strandberg, Director of Mission Integration and Workforce Development

Christina Bonah (Notre Dame Health Care) Since childhood, I have been captivated by the healthcare field, particularly nursing, due to its profound impact on individuals’ lives and its embodiment of compassion and service. Growing up in a close-knit community, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of nurses who dedicated themselves to caring for others with empathy and expertise. My journey towards nursing is fueled by a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful difference in the world, to provide comfort and support to those in need, and to advocate for the health and well-being of all. I am drawn to nursing for its holistic approach to patient care, which acknowledges the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.This philosophy resonates deeply with my own values and aspirations, and I am committed to embodying these principles in my future practice as a nurse.

Brittany Geer
Brittany Geer

Brittany Geer (Sudbury Pines) My Sister Alexis, encouraged me to apply at Sudbury Pines, a nursing home she was familiar with. I applied for a dietary aid position and was relieved when I found out that I got the job in October of 2016!Once starting in the kitchen, I was promoted to a Cook. I truly loved the experience of being in the nursing settings and wanted to continue to excel. When the opportunity of an activity’s coordinator presented itself to me, I could not resist the offer! While in the activity department this is when I truly felt the connection to the nursing world. I’ve witnessed how dedication, determination and perseverance can provide great rewards to the patients you are supporting.While in the healthcare field there have been many situations where I wanted to be more hands-on to provide support for nurses and patients. With all of these daily visuals I have worked my way up from beginning as a Dietary-Aide to now having a position as Unit Secretary and also assisting in the Social Service Department.I have worn many hats throughout my journey here at Sudbury Pines. I have been on one side of the field for many years and I am ready to make the transition into the Health Care Provider. I enrolled in an LPN program, and took the leap to further my career. With completion of the LPN Program, my goal is to become an RN.

Evania K. Vieria
Evania K. Vieria

Evania K. Vieria  (Alden Court Nursing Care) From the age of ten, I knew I wanted to work in the medical field and found my inspiration to become a registered nurse. This passion blossomed during my senior year of high school, when I began a co-op job at Alden Court Nursing Care. I envision a career where I can provide quality care for the elderly and those who are ill; a commitment that resonates deeply with me. My career goal is to work as a nurse in a long-term care setting, where I can offer my unique compassion and support, making residents feel loved and understood. Working in a long-term care setting also empowers me to make a positive impact on the lives of residents. I am determined to leverage my passion for long-term care nursing to create meaningful differences in the lives of others. I am excited to apply what I have learned in both school and the workplace in a professional setting, bringing comfort and care to those in need. I believe that long-term care nursing is more than just a vocation; it is an art form that enables me to care for my residents, ensuring they feel valued, respected, and informed about their health.