A select group of residents from Cairo Housing Authority earned certificates in the Bainbridge College Certified Nurse Assisting (CNA) Program.

A special ceremony honoring the nine students took place at the end of Fall Semester with housing authority Executive Director John Marria as keynote speaker.

Receiving certificates were Latanya Baker, Latrice Hansen, Freddricka Scott, Rayshell Shavers, Alecia Sumner, Willie Mae Wade, Shenica D. Walden, Augelicia Weaver and Ronnie Wynn. These students also received certificates for perfect attendance: Latanya Baker, Freddricka Scott, Rayshell Shavers and Augelicia Weaver.

Proud that the Housing Authority could assist in making the program possible, the keynoter praised the students’ diligence in completing the program, their setting the example for other residents, setting goals for further education, and working to better their lives and opportunities for their families.

He reminded them that housing authority’s aim is for residents “to move in, move up and move out” and that they should live the idea: “If it is to be, it’s up to me, and the time is now.”

Marria told them, “It’s all about empowering you as a resident and to pass that on to your kids.”

He also complimented Bainbridge College and its Technical Studies Division personnel, Chair Barbara Stephens, Doris Carmichael, who oversees Allied Health programs, and CNA Instructor Gena Peterson, for their work with the Cairo Housing Authority to arrange the class. It started Oct. 16 and met Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The housing authority provided transportation and covered some expenses, such as required uniforms.

Potential students had to pass an entrance exam to be accepted into the program. Completing their CNA training offers new job opportunities, Marria noted as did Antoinette Sapp, housing authority residential development specialist.

Stephens and Carmichael reminded the graduates that they have taken a first step for health care employment and can go on to higher paying work when they complete additional studies. Some graduates now plan to become licensed practical nurses or respiratory therapists.

“Health occupations are noble occupations that change lives—the patients’ lives and yours,” Carmichael said.