Howard Payne University’s (HPU) School of Nursing recently held its first Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) completion ceremony. 

This event recognized the completion of HPU’s first CNA cohort through the Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP). The students successfully completed the required classroom instruction and clinical training necessary to prepare for hands-on experiences in a variety of healthcare settings, including acute and long-term care, and are eligible to take the state certification exam.

Students in the cohort are Mackenzie De La Cruz, sophomore from Susanville, California; Iza Harrison, sophomore from Priddy; Jake Leung, sophomore from Brownwood; Addison Long, junior from Rising Star; and Paris Mederez, sophomore from Pharr.

“These students have demonstrated compassion, dedication and a heart for service, reflecting Howard Payne’s core value of being Called to Service,” said Dr. Laci Sutton, dean of the School of Nursing and assistant professor of nursing. “We are proud to help prepare caring healthcare professionals who will make a meaningful impact in the lives of others and in the communities they serve.”

Throughout the program, students learned essential nursing assistant skills addressing vital signs, infection control, safety, personal care, mobility assistance and compassionate patient-centered care. The course was designed not only to prepare students for the state certification exam, but also to serve as a foundational stepping stone for those pursuing nursing and other healthcare careers.

“The completion ceremony celebrates the students’ hard work, dedication and growth throughout the semester,” said Martha Treviño-Brunette, university nurse and NATCEP director. “As the first CNA cohort at HPU, this group has helped establish a pathway for future students entering healthcare professions.”

For more information about the School of Nursing, please visit www.hputx.edu/nursing.