LPN Partnership Program Creates Opportunities

February 17, 2026

Katie Reaves’ career in health care began unexpectedly at a job fair at EAMC‑Lanier Rural Emergency Hospital, where she accepted a position as an activities assistant at Lanier Nursing Home. Through that role, she discovered a passion for teamwork and patient care, which motivated her to pursue further growth.

After about a year, Reaves entered East Alabama Health’s Pathways to Advancement program and joined a newly launched on‑site Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in partnership with Chattahoochee Valley Community College. With tuition covered, full-time benefits maintained, and a flexible work schedule, the program made it possible for her to return to school while managing work and family responsibilities.

Despite the challenges of being back in school after nearly a decade, Reaves thrived thanks to strong peer support, instructors, and a collaborative, noncompetitive culture. Participation in a nurse apprenticeship program provided hands-on experience that boosted her confidence, improved her grades, and helped her meet clinical requirements.

After graduating, Reaves secured a coveted day-shift role in Psychiatric Services, which she describes as a dream opportunity. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue an RN bridge program. Her story emphasizes self-belief, perseverance, and the impact of employer-supported education, underscoring her message that it’s never too late to take a chance on yourself.

View the entire article at
https://www.eastalabamahealth.org/news-and-media/east-alabama-healths-lpn-program-creates-opportunities