At the time, joining the Security team as a contract officer seemed like the right fit. Serving others was always something he enjoyed.
“I wanted to help as much as possible but over time, I realized that I wasn’t good with policing,” Dwaine chuckled. “It’s just a job
I kind of fell into after serving in the military for 10 years.”
The Army veteran distinguished himself on the Security team, always willing to learn and assist with department duties. Over two years, he became the go-to person for assistance with just about anything. He also expressed an interest in patient care. His manager encouraged him to enroll in Adventist HealthCare’s training academy for certified nursing assistants (CNA).
“I just saw there was a need for help in the hospital,” Dwaine said. “A CNA’s job translates so much across the board, especially in the actual nursing system. Here at Fort Washington Medical Center, the family atmosphere is what made all the difference for me.”
Dwaine completed the CNA Academy in May 2022, in the second cohort of the program. He said the Academy was a wonderful learning experience, thanks to instructors who offered varying perspectives and explored an in-depth curriculum.
Dwaine shined among his peers. He impressed the program facilitators with his skillfulness, leader-like mentality and natural ability to take initiative, according to Fort Washington education specialist Karen Graham.
Karen added that Dwaine’s stellar performance in the CNA Academy led to bigger opportunities. He went on to graduate from the hospital’s Preceptor Academy, and is now teaching, mentoring, supporting and coaching new nurses about safe clinical practices.
“All the preceptees love being with him. He always exemplifies Adventist HealthCare’s RISES Values and is just a joy to work with,” Karen said. “I don’t know what his strategy is, but he always understands what is asked of him and does whatever necessary to make it happen.”
Dwaine doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. He’s juggling a busy schedule these days, navigating nursing school while working both at Fort Washington and as a contract phlebotomist at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center.
“It’s taking a long time, but I’m knocking out class by class and getting on track to where I can eventually focus on my clinicals,” Dwaine explained. “Once I do that, I should be a nurse soon.”
“I am sure that this is only the beginning,” said Skip Taylor, the Fort Washington leader who encouraged Dwaine to enroll in the CNA Academy. “His dedication and commitment to Adventist HealthCare’s Mission and Values are traits that will serve him well throughout his career – no matter what discipline he chooses to work in. I consider Dwaine an Adventist HealthCare success story.”
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