What began two years ago as a health sciences pathway in Goshen High School's Career and Technical Education (CTE) program has grown into the Greencroft Academy of Health Sciences. 

With support from the Greencroft Communities Foundation, the classroom has been transformed into a hands-on clinical training lab featuring high-fidelity mannequins, patient lifts, interactive vital-sign stations, and a portable bathing station. Greencroft's support has grown from an initial equipment gift to a five-year commitment totaling $150,000. 

"The Greencroft gift is crucial," said Jon Everingham, Goshen High School CTE Director. "All the equipment we've added, and plan to add, improves outcomes for students."

Todd Yoder, President of the Greencroft Communities Foundation, said a nursing shortage nationwide prompted the partnership.

“We feel a strong responsibility to support and grow a local nursing workforce that uplifts our entire region,” he said. “We are honored to champion this sacred calling, invest in the next generation, and help fill the pipeline of new nurses.” 

The partnership has helped double enrollment since the program's launch and led the Goshen Community Schools Board to officially designate the pathway as the Greencroft Academy of Health Sciences beginning in 2026-27.

People 

The Academy's inaugural class includes 60 juniors in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) pathway and 20 seniors enrolled in a new capstone program leading to Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) credentials.

Nurses Becky Hulse and Sarah Ennis teach the courses through Legacy Medical Academy, combining classroom instruction with lab work and clinical experience. 

To Becky, who helped launch the program in 2024, the goal extends beyond technical skills. 

"I want them to leave with confidence, compassion and resilience," she said. "Healthcare isn't easy, but if they remember why they started, they'll have what it takes.” 

Purpose

To earn CNA certification, students complete 37.5 clinical hours at Greencroft Goshen Healthcare, master 72 procedures and pass a 200-question written exam.

For many students, those clinical experiences are the most meaningful part of the program. 

“We hear the word family a lot,” said Jon. “Students tell us it feels like family when they come to Greencroft.” 

Sarah described the “lightbulb moments” that occur when students connect what they are learning in class with real-life application and begin to see a future in healthcare. 

"For some students, this program is giving them a purpose and a meaningful start," Becky said. "It's changing the trajectory of their lives." 

The impact extends to Greencroft as well. 

"They're a helping hand," said Jinny Longbrake, Chief Human Resource Officer for Greencroft Communities. "It's beneficial for us and for the students." 

Possibilities

After earning CNA certification, students are encouraged to apply for positions at Greencroft, and several graduates already have. 

"Even if they don't stay with us, they've been exposed to long-term care," Jinny said. "They'll remember that experience when considering future career options." 

Students who complete the pathway also earn 15 Ivy Tech credit hours that can be applied toward future education.  
"Whatever career they choose, the lessons they learn here will stay with them," Becky said. "How to care for people with dignity, compassion and maturity.”

Expanding the Pipeline for Nurses

Legacy Medical Academy partners with nine Indiana high schools, helping shape the next generation of qualified healthcare professionals, with Greencroft communities serving as clinical training sites in Elkhart, LaPorte and potentially St. Joseph counties. 

"As the nation continues to face a nursing shortage, we're exploring opportunities to expand these partnerships and create more pathways into healthcare careers," said Pam Morrison, Legacy's Chief Education Officer. “Giving students opportunities to see different venues and the way clinicals are delivered provides a pipeline.” 

Greencroft Goshen and Hamilton Grove already serve as clinical sites. Southfield Village may be next.  

“When I am at Hamilton Grove or Goshen and see the students, it brightens my day,” said Jinny Longbrake, Chief Human Resource Officer for Greencroft Communities. “They are so happy to be there. It’s good for them, and it’s good for us.”