American Senior Communities (ASC) and Health & Hospital Corporation of Marion County (HHC) proudly recognized 20 graduates of the Opportunities to Nursing Excellence (O2NE) Program at a luncheon on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at the Bridgewater Club in Carmel, IN.
This innovative scholarship program was created to support employees who aspire to advance their careers in nursing. The program reflects a shared commitment to fostering professional development and strengthening the long-term care profession across the state.
Congratulations to the 2025 HHC Graduates:
- Cassandra Gerdes, RN – Ben Hur Health & Rehabilitation
- Austen Maikranz, LPN – Cypress Grove Rehabilitation Center
- Cierra Williams, LPN – Danville Regional Rehabilitation
- Casey Dragoo, LPN – Edgewater Woods
- DD Turner, RN – Franklin Meadows
- Haley Powers, RN – Greenwood Meadows
- Keesha McGraw, LPN & Saskia Benschop, LPN – Harcourt Terrace Nursing & Rehab
- Mila Rice, LPN – North Woods Village
- Kyra Michaels, LPN – Rosebud Village
- Eva Vires, RN – Seymour Crossing
- Marklee Haltom, RN – Springhill Village
- Sarah Jackson, RN – Zionsville Meadows
Congratulations to the 2025 ASC Graduates:
- Shlena Webb, RN & Serina Crouch, LPN – Bethany Village
- Samantha Herald, RN and Ashley Wohlford, LPN – Hickory Creek at Winamac
- Trudy Hartzler, RN – Markle Health & Rehab
- Kehonsha Young, LPN – Rosegate Commons
The O2NE program provides a valuable pathway for caregiver staff to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) by offering direct funding to accredited nursing schools, all while allowing participants to continue working in their current roles. Funding provided through the program covers tuition and book expenses and supports participants with the flexibility to pursue their education without financial hardship.
To date, the program has created educational and career advancement opportunities for over 260 graduates. Many have earned their RN licensure and have been promoted to clinical management positions.
Alicia Sims, Chief Nursing Officer at ASC said, “We’re incredibly proud of the outstanding clinical talent we have across the state at American Senior Communities, and the recent O2NE graduates truly reflect that excellence. At ASC, helping our team members grow in their careers is a top priority. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 2025 O2NE graduating class.”
Julie White, Vice President of Long-Term Care at HHC of Marion County shared, “The O2NE Program is a powerful example of how career development can strengthen our entire healthcare system. By allowing employees to earn additional credentials without stepping away from their current roles, we’re not only supporting their personal growth, but also increasing the number of Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses available to care for Indiana’s senior population.”
Supporting the Future of Senior Care
Programs like O2NE aren’t just about education – they’re about investing in people. They create opportunities for career advancement, help build stronger healthcare teams, and ultimately ensure a higher standard of care for seniors across Indiana.
Congratulations to the 2025 graduates and thank you for your dedication to the nursing profession and the seniors you serve!
Join us and be part of something special!
ASC offers a supportive environment full of opportunities! If you’re looking for a career where you can make a meaningful difference, you may have found your calling.
Visit us at CareersWithASC to learn more about our many career options.
