From CNA to RN: Jessie’s Journey at Weston County Health Services

Employee Spotlight: Jessie Stearns, Nursing Care Coordinator

Nearly 10 years ago, Jessie Stearns began her career at Weston County Manor as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Today, she's a Registered Nurse serving as the Manor's Nursing Care Coordinator.

Her journey from CNA to RN is a story of growth, encouragement, and a desire to continue doing more for the residents she had come to know and care for.

Taking the Next Step

Jessie started at Weston County Manor in 2017 as a CNA. With encouragement and support along the way, she continued building her skills and earning additional certifications.

First came her CNA II certification, followed by her Medication Aide certification.

But Jessie still felt like she could do more.

“I felt like I wanted to keep doing more for the residents that live here, and so I kept going on to the next step.”

In the fall of 2020, Jessie started nursing school. She earned her LPN, worked as a nurse, and then continued her education once again—this time earning her RN degree and license.

That eventually led Jessie into a new role at the Manor, first in compliance and education and now as Nursing Care Coordinator.

Encouraged to Keep Growing

Jessie credits many of the people she's worked alongside at Weston County Manor with giving her the confidence to continue her education.

“The staff has always been really encouraging here. There are lots of good nurses that have worked here at the Manor that are very good mentors and were encouraging and gave me the confidence to return to school and pursue my LPN and then go on to my RN.”

For Jessie, her career progression wasn't simply about earning another certification or degree. Each step allowed her to do more for the people who had become such an important part of her life—the residents.

More Than Residents

After nearly a decade at the Manor, Jessie has cared for some residents for years.

“There are some residents that have lived here longer than I've worked here,” Jessie said.

That time together creates relationships that go far beyond simply knowing someone's medical needs.

Jessie gets to learn their stories—what they did when they were younger, how they came to Newcastle, what makes them laugh, what makes them comfortable, and the little things that make each person unique.

“You really get to know them and become a part of their family.”

Knowing each resident personally also allows the Manor team to provide individualized care.

Something that helps one resident feel calm and comfortable may be completely different from what works for another. By spending time with residents and learning who they are, staff can better understand those individual needs.

Helping Residents Continue to Live Meaningful Lives

For Jessie, that's one of the most rewarding parts of working in long-term care.

The goal isn't simply to care for residents. It's to help them continue experiencing purpose, comfort, relationships, and meaningful moments while calling the Manor home.

“Helping the residents continue to have a fulfilling and meaningful life while they live here is super rewarding and a huge reason why I've worked here for almost 10 years.”

It's also why Jessie encourages others who are considering a career in healthcare to consider Weston County Health Services.

“We care a lot about the quality of our work and make sure that the residents are always well taken care of to the best of our abilities.”

Jessie's journey—from CNA to CNA II, Medication Aide, LPN, RN, and Nursing Care Coordinator—shows just how far a healthcare career can grow.

And nearly 10 years later, the reason behind that growth remains the same:

The residents she serves.