Greencroft Goshen Stories

Becoming caregivers for their grandmothers inspired the two newest Greencroft Scholars – Shaylyn Pipher of Ontario, Canada, and Senper Solomon Teferi of Ethiopia – to pursue careers in nursing. 

The two Goshen College seniors each received a $5,000 scholarship from the Gene E. Yoder Legacy of Learning Scholarship Fund. Friends, family, and Greencroft staff celebrated their achievements during an afternoon reception at Goshen Healthcare on September 21.  

“We are so proud of both of you and your journey through nursing,” said Todd Yoder, Vice President of Development for Greencroft Communities and President of the Greencroft Communities Foundation, which awards the scholarships. “Nurses are the heart of our mission.” 

When asked why they chose nursing as a career path, both students pointed to experiences caring for their grandmothers. 

“When I was 14, I learned firsthand what it truly means to be a caregiver,” Shaylyn said. “Living with my Granny as she battled stage IV colon cancer was challenging, but it ultimately led me down the path I am on today. It’s always felt like what I was meant to do.” 

Senper shared a similar experience. She was 12 when her grandmother suffered a stroke.  

“For me, a big part of why I chose nursing was my Grandma,” she said. “My mom was her primary caregiver, but I helped, too. I watched my Grandma become increasingly dependent on others for many daily tasks, yet she still showed so much patience and strength. The time I spent with her was a period of growth and formation for me.” 

As they prepare to enter the profession, the students received encouragement from Greencroft leaders. 

Amber Yoder, Vice President of Clinical Services, advised them to remain open-minded and committed to lifelong learning.  

“You’re not going to learn everything from the texts,” she said. “You’re going to learn from your patients. Every experience is a new experience.”

The Gene E. Yoder Legacy of Learning Fund, established in honor of former Greencroft CEO Gene Yoder, supports students and employees pursuing careers in long-term care. Each year the fund awards scholarships to students pursuing nursing degrees as well as graduate degrees in healthcare or business administration. 

Gene Yoder attended the reception and personally congratulated Shaylyn and Senper on their achievements.