Kendra was honored Nov. 10 at the organization’s statewide convention in Prior Lake. Nominated by Kathy Dobson, Vice President of Senior Services, Kendra was recognized for her leadership, compassion and the incredible impact she has made on workforce development and Memory Care at Lakewood.
Amid statewide CNA shortages, Kendra stepped up with innovation and heart. She became approved by the Minnesota Department of Health to provide on-site CNA test-out services and developed Lakewood’s in-house CNA training program — opening doors for employees and local high school students to begin meaningful careers in healthcare.
Kendra has also helped create a strong healthcare pipeline for youth by partnering with area schools and expanding training opportunities to nearby districts.
Alongside her teaching role, Kendra serves as the RN Coordinator for our Memory Care unit, where she is known for her calm leadership, compassion and dedication to residents and their families.
Her colleagues describe her as kind, positive, patient and “the type of nurse you’d want caring for your own loved ones.”
Kendra says receiving this award is an honor made possible by the mentors who guided her, the leaders who supported her, and the students who inspire her every day.
“Teaching with heart really matters to me. Watching students grow in confidence — often with no prior healthcare experience — and settle into a career they love is the best reward of all.”
Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved recognition for Kendra Petersen. We are incredibly grateful to have her as part of our Lakewood family.