Greencroft Communities Stories
Greencroft Scholars
The two newest Greencroft Scholars, Wendy Hernandez and Magaly Cazabal Gonzalez, were introduced and celebrated during an afternoon reception at Goshen Healthcare on September 10. Both are senior nursing students at Goshen College and recipients of a $5,000 scholarship from the Gene E. Yoder Legacy of Learning Scholarship Fund, recognizing their academic excellence, dedication to long-term care, and passion for serving others.
“These students exemplify the heart of long-term care,” said Todd Yoder, Greencroft Communities Foundation President. “Their compassion and dedication remind us why investing in the next generation of caregivers is so important. We are honored to support their journey and look forward to the difference they will make in the lives of others.”
Wendy, a first-generation college student, has worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Greencroft Goshen. In her scholarship application, she shared how her experiences in senior care shaped her calling to serve underserved and Spanish-speaking communities. She said the scholarship will allow her to focus more fully on her education and her goal of becoming a mission nurse.
Magaly, also a CNA, expressed her commitment to long-term care and her desire to continue serving in the field as a registered nurse after graduation. She credited her family—especially her mother—for inspiring her perseverance and success.
Hugh Davis, President and CEO of Greencroft Communities, congratulated both students on their achievements and shared his own story of beginning his career as a CNA while pursuing a college degree. He later earned advanced degrees in nursing and healthcare administration, before becoming CEO of a retirement community.
“There’s no limit to what you can do,” Hugh told them.
The Gene E. Yoder Legacy of Learning Fund, established in honor of former Greencroft President Gene Yoder, supports students and employees pursuing careers in long-term care. Each year, the fund provides scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to encourage students pursuing nursing or graduate degrees in healthcare or business administration.
The fund’s namesake, Gene Yoder, attended the reception and added his congratulations to Magaly and Wendy. Also in attendance were members of the Greencroft Communities Foundation Board of Directors, who selected the scholarship recipients, along with Greencroft staff, and friends and family of the honorees.