June 2008 - Heritage Ministries hosted its annual Scholarship Breakfast on June 4th at Heritage Village Rehab & Skilled Nursing (Gerry).  This special event honors a graduating high school senior with a college scholarship, awards current Heritage employees with scholarships, and recognizes employees who are currently enrolled in nursing school.

An inspiring message was given to the award recipients by keynote speaker Monica Choperana, the new administrator at Heritage Green Rehab & Skilled Nursing (Greenhurst).  With the theme “Making Choices,” Ms. Choperana explained how her healthcare career reluctantly began as a nursing assistant at the Chautauqua County Home.  However, she soon discovered how that choice has led a to a long and fulfilling healthcare career where she has had the privilege of serving residents, families, and employees within the skilled nursing environment.  Her recent decision to return “home” led her to Heritage Green where she continues to find fulfillment within a faith-based, mission-driven, not-for-profit organization.

David Smeltzer, executive director for Heritage Ministries Management Company explained, “Monica has already made a tremendous impact at Heritage Green.  Heritage Ministries is privileged to have Monica as a valued member of our management team.”

Each year, Heritage Ministries honors a graduating high school student entering the healthcare field with a $500 scholarship.  Zachary Norris, a senior at Falconer Central School, was honored as the 2008 High School Healthcare Scholarship winner.  Zach has been very active both in school and in the community, including track, soccer, band, chorus, Impact Leader, and more.  He has received several academic honors during his high school career, including National Honor Society, Scholar Athlete Award, Principal’s Leadership Award, Clarkson Leadership Award, and the Bausch & Lomb Science Ward.  Zach will attend Allegany College in the fall where he pursues his goal of becoming a physician. 

Several Heritage employees also received scholarships in support of their desire to continue their education.  Charity Norman, housekeeper, and Susan Smeragliuolo, receptionist, both from Heritage Village Rehab & Skilled Nursing, are attending school to become professional nurses.  Alexandria Sinatra, currently an activities aide at Heritage Green Rehab & Skilled Nursing, is pursuing an Elementary Education degree.