6 students graduate from Concord Hospital Health System’s summer 2026 program

LACONIA — Concord Hospital Health System recently celebrated the graduation of six students from its summer 2026 Licensed Nursing Assistant  Training Program, marking another successful step in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to serve patients throughout central New Hampshire.

Administered in partnership with New Hampshire Technical Institute, the program provides participants with the education, clinical experience, and support needed to become licensed nursing assistants while introducing them to rewarding careers within CHHS.

The summer 2026 graduates are Azaria Arlington, Payne Gould, Emma Paris, Robert Raby, Monique De Villiers and Gary Woodward. 

"Congratulations to our newest graduates on reaching this incredible achievement," CHHS’s Academic-Practice Partner and Student Placement Coordinator, Emily Higgins, said. "Becoming a Licensed Nursing Assistant is often the first step, or the beginning of a lifelong, fulfilling role in the healthcare profession. These graduates have worked incredibly hard to successfully complete this college-level course and clinical hours in our earn-while-you-learn program. They demonstrated dedication, compassion, and a genuine commitment to caring for others.”

The LNA Training Program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, preparing students to provide compassionate, direct patient care at CHHS in the inpatient setting and on the skilled unit at Concord Hospital - Franklin. Upon successful completion of the program and state licensure requirements, graduates begin their LNA careers at CHHS.

 “Over the past eight weeks, I have had the privilege of watching each of them grow in both knowledge and confidence,” Dr. Higgins said. “I look forward to continuing to watch them develop as Licensed Nursing Assistants caring for patients throughout our hospital system. We are proud to welcome them into the healthcare workforce and know they will make a meaningful difference in the lives of the patients, families, and communities they serve."

The program is offered twice a year and reflects CHHS’s ongoing commitment to developing the healthcare workforce through education, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities.

"Our partnership with NHTI allows us to create meaningful pathways into healthcare while helping address the growing need for skilled caregivers throughout New Hampshire," Dr. Higgins said. "Programs like this not only prepare students for successful careers but also strengthen our workforce and ensure patients continue to receive exceptional care close to home."

LNAs provide hands-on support to patients by assisting with activities of daily living, monitoring patient needs, and working alongside nurses and other healthcare professionals to deliver safe, compassionate care. Their role is vital to both the patient experience and the overall healthcare team. 

Individuals interested in learning more about the LNA Training Program and other educational opportunities at CHHS can visit concordhospital.org/careers-training.