Alerts Sign-up
Ashley, a registered nurse at Park Place of St. John, views her role at Providence as more than just employment. Her career with the organization began while she was still in nursing school, encouraged by another employee to apply for an open position due to its proximity and the company’s religious foundation.
Starting as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), Ashley balanced work and studies before becoming a registered nurse. She credits her Christian faith as central to her approach in caring for residents, aiming to treat others with compassion and respect.
Before joining Providence, Ashley worked at another long-term care facility in Crown Point after earning her CNA license during high school. She is the first nurse in her family and said, “I am actually the first nurse in my family. Sometimes I ask myself, ‘How did I end up here?’ But I would not trade it.”
Ashley has been part of Providence for nearly three years and currently works the evening shift at Park Place of St. John, soon transitioning to mornings. She describes finding a sense of community among colleagues and residents: “I love the people. I love the residents. I love the staff,” she shared. “It’s a fun environment to work in. Sure, every job has challenges, but overall, I enjoy it here.”
Terri Vercel, Director of Nursing, said about Ashley: “Ashley brings so much light and energy to our campus. Her caregiving skills are God-gifted, her compassion is genuine, and the residents feel it every day.”
Among her favorite memories is participating in monthly potlucks with coworkers: “Some of us, in the evenings, started doing a monthly potluck. Everyone brings something for dinner, and we all go down to the first floor to grab food together. It’s simple, but it’s special.”
Outside work, Ashley is preparing for her wedding this July and appreciates support from colleagues during this time.
She once lived in Utah between her sophomore and junior years of high school—a detail not widely known among coworkers.
Reflecting on what keeps her motivated during difficult times at work, Ashley said: “Knowing that what I am doing is not just for people. It is to glorify God. If you do not stay grounded in your belief in God, things can fall apart.”
