June 2009 - Heritage Ministries hosted its 8th annual Scholarship Breakfast on June 26th 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 uplifting message was given to the award recipients by keynote speaker Cheryl Evan, the new administrator at Heritage Village Retirement Campus (Gerry).  With the theme “Pursuing Your Passion,” Ms. Evan explained how her career has taken her on various paths to her current position as Administrator.  Her recent decision to pursue a passion for serving people in a Christ-centered atmosphere led her to Heritage Village Retirement Campus where she is now enjoying a rewarding career within a faith-based, mission-driven, not-for-profit organization.

David Smeltzer, executive director for Heritage Ministries Management Company explained, “We are pleased to have Cheryl join our team.  I am confident that Cheryl’s diverse experience and personality will contribute to making Heritage Village Retirement Campus a warm and pleasant living experience for everyone.”

Each year, Heritage Ministries honors a graduating high school student entering the healthcare field with a $500 scholarship.  Theodore Mueller, a senior at Southwestern High School, was honored as the 2009 High School Healthcare Scholarship winner.  Ted has been very active both in school and in the community, including playing tennis, running cross-country, serving as class officer in student government, and more.  He has received several academic honors during his high school career, including induction into National Honor Society, Academic Top Five in his class, the AP Chemistry Award, and Student of the Month.  Ted will attend Case Western Reserve University (Ohio) in the fall where he will pursue his goal of becoming a physician or healthcare administrator. 

Several Heritage employees also received scholarships in support of their desire to continue their education.  Melinda Young, unit secretary, and Susan Smeragliuolo, receptionist, both from Heritage Village Rehab & Skilled Nursing, are attending school to become professional nurses.  Jared Caruso, currently an activity assistant at Heritage Green Rehab & Skilled Nursing, is pursuing an occupational therapy degree.  Amanda Rhoney, a teacher at Heritage House Childcare & Learning Center, is pursuing a master’s degree in education.

For more information about healthcare career opportunities with Heritage Ministries, please call Laura Blake at (716) 487-6872.