May 9, 2025

Eight Students Complete Nurse Aide I Course at R-CCC 

 

AHOSKIE, NC –Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) proudly announces the successful completion of its Nurse Aide I (NAI) course by eight students who dedicated themselves to 190 hours of rigorous instruction and hands-on training.
 
The students who completed the program are Shadae Andrews, Terence Andrews Jr., Tracy Laws, Mickee Pugh, Nashyra Slade, Dominique Sledge, Nikki Smith and Lauren Taylor. The course was led by Dr. Stacy Simmons, RN, and offered through the college’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development division.
 
“Being a CNA is about more than skills – it’s about compassion,” explained Simmons. “Throughout the course, our students learned the importance of empathy and human connection, which are just as vital as clinical knowledge in providing quality care.”
 
The NAI course at R-CCC prepares students to deliver personal care and perform basic nursing skills for elderly individuals and other adults. Course topics include communication, patient safety, personal care, vital signs, nutrition, rehabilitation, patients’ rights, and includes CPR certification.
 
Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program Exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. The exam includes a written or oral portion as well as a practical skills demonstration. Passing both components qualifies candidates for listing on the state nurse aide registry — a critical step for employment in the healthcare field.
 
The job outlook for certified nursing assistants (CNAs) remains strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, national employment for nurse aides is projected to grow 4–5% through 2033, with North Carolina expecting an 11% growth over the next decade. Average salaries for CNAs in North Carolina are approximately $32,000, with higher earnings in metropolitan areas such as Charlotte, Greensboro and Durham. CNAs work in diverse settings including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living centers, doctors’ offices, hospice and home care agencies.
 
R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams congratulated the graduates for their commitment and hard work.
 
“Congratulations to the dedicated students who have successfully completed the Nurse Aide I course here at R-CCC,” said Williams. “This accomplishment reflects not only their commitment to learning and service but also their readiness to make a positive impact on the lives of those they will care for in our communities. We celebrate their achievements and wish them the very best in their promising careers ahead.”
 
For more information about upcoming courses, contact R-CCC Continuing Education & Workforce Development at 252-862-1307 or 252-862-1309.
 

 

Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s Mission

Roanoke-Chowan Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System and located in Hertford County, is a public, two-year institution of higher education offering associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, college and career readiness, and customized business and industry training in a variety of delivery modes promoting public service, transfer, and workforce development for a diverse student body, leading them to contribute to the vitality of an increasingly global community. www.roanokechowan.edu #DiscoverRCCC “Where community and careers connect”

Media Contact: Melanie Temple, Director of Marketing & Recruitment/PIO, metemple7181@roanokechowan.edu, 252-862-1243