“You can’t sit back and wonder what if. Just do it.”
Those are words of advice from Roman Little, a Certified Medication Technician at Richmond Terrace, a Lutheran Senior Services Assisted Living Community in Richmond Heights, Missouri. He’s preparing to take his own advice by pursuing his Licensed Practical Nurse degree (LPN).
Back in the 2009, Roman had tired of working outdoors in the harsh weather and found a job in Housekeeping at a local senior living community. There, he was offered an opportunity to participate in a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. “I wanted to try something different. I didn’t know much about being a CNA, but I did it and I’ve been with it ever since.”
Roman started as a CNA at Laclede Groves Senior Living, an LSS Life Plan Community, in Webster Groves, Missouri, in 2019. There, he was encouraged to use his LSS education benefits to pursue his Certified Medication Technician (CMT) license at no cost to him.
Upon completing his CMT, he moved to Richmond Terrace to share his new skills. Now he is taking another big step thanks to the LSS education benefit. “I’m starting LPN school next month. Trying move up a little more,” said Roman.
His growth represents the new LSS core value, “We meet you where you are, and we grow together.”
“We have been so proud of Roman for continuing to further his career,” said Angie Wilson, Executive Director of Laclede Groves. “It is gratifying to see that LSS has helped him grow, and now his growth is benefitting our residents.”
“Roman is going to be an excellent nurse,” said Robin Garnett, Administrator of Assisted Living at Richmond Terrace. “He’s an excellent employee and we love how he has grown within LSS.”
From a CNA to – soon – an LPN, Roman has enjoyed support and encouragement in his four years at LSS communities. “I like the atmosphere. My team is great. And the residents are great,” said Roman.
Delores Holtmann, a Richmond Terrace resident, enjoys her friendship with Roman. “He’s a real good guy!”