Thomas Zasmeta, Nursing Assistant, Riverwood Healthcare
Thomas Zasmeta, nursing assistant at Riverwood Healthcare Center, is this year’s recipient of Riverwood Foundation’s Michael Zilverberg Healthcare Education Scholarship. He has received an award of $1,000 to support his pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in nursing at St. John’s University in St. Cloud.
“This scholarship means so much to me because it brings me one step closer to my goal of becoming a nurse,” says Zasmeta.
Zasmeta was selected by Riverwood Foundation’s Finance and Granting Committee based on a written application detailing his experience and achievements in the nursing field, and a narrative describing what he wants to accomplish as a result of their education. A reference letter from a supervisor is also a key factor in the selection process.
Kristine Layne, Riverwood’s chief nursing officer, shared these comments in her letter of support for Zasmeta: “Thomas started working at Riverwood three years ago while attending Aitkin High School. He is now two years into his nursing program and the growth and development in his nursing skills has been outstanding. He spends any extra time he has with patients, pulling up a chair and just being there with them to listen and help in any way that he can.”
Zasmeta participated in the Health Careers exploration class when he was a senior at Aitkin High School in 2009. Along with a dozen other students, he participated in special learning sessions held with health care professionals at Riverwood for a 12-week period.
The Michael Zilverberg Healthcare Education Endowment was started by the late Jeanette Zilverberg in 2004 to honor her husband Michael, who was a strong community leader in Aitkin. Always supportive of education and helping others, he was especially interested in providing educational opportunities and scholarships for those working in healthcare at Riverwood.
To make a contribution to the Michael Zilverberg Healthcare Education endowment fund, contact Riverwood Foundation at (218) 927-5554.