I have always had a profound passion for healthcare, a commitment that resonates deeply within me. Since 1999, when I first became a CNA, followed by my journey to becoming an LVN in 2010, I have devoted my career to this noble field. I am a patient advocate first and a caregiver nurse second, drawing from my diverse experiences in various healthcare settings.

Teaching is my gift, and nursing is my passion. I wholeheartedly believe that CNAs are the backbone of our healthcare system, and it is imperative for every healthcare professional to embody empathy and compassion. I feel incredibly blessed and honored to nurture and guide my students as they blossom into skilled professionals.

Together, we are weaving love and compassion into the very fabric of healthcare. I take great pride in leading them on their journey and empowering them to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those they serve.

Hi! I’m Marissa, a 20-year-old Director’s Assistant and Marketing Coordinator at Kern Healthcare College. As someone early in my career, I’m excited to be learning and growing every day in the healthcare education field. This role has given me the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while supporting our leadership team and managing various marketing initiatives.

From coordinating events and creating content to assisting with strategic planning and student outreach, I’m deeply involved in helping our programs reach and inspire future healthcare professionals. I love being part of an environment that empowers students to succeed, and I’m passionate about connecting people with the educational opportunities that can truly change their lives.

As I continue to learn and develop my skills, I’m committed to contributing to our mission of delivering high-quality healthcare education and building strong relationships within our community.

I embarked on my nursing career fueled by a deep-seated passion for healthcare, nurtured over several years as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). With a background rooted in the medical field, I was profoundly influenced by my grandmother’s care and a number of other family members being medical professionals. In this it inspired me to pursue my journey as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) that I have now been active in since 2008.

Throughout my career, I have embraced a variety of roles that have enriched my experience. As a Director of Staff Development (DSD), I transitioned from hands-on patient supervision to influencing the quality of care delivered by CNAs. This unique position allowed me to ensure that the elderly population received the compassionate and attentive care they deserve.

Teaching has become a pivotal part of my professional identity. I view it as an opportunity to plant seeds of knowledge, nurturing the next generation of healthcare providers. I take great pride in empowering others to grow and develop their skills, knowing that they will play a vital role in protecting and advocating for our elderly community.

My journey in nursing has been not only a career but a calling—dedicated to enhancing the lives of those I serve and paving the way for future caregivers.