LPN-RN student and working mom of three earns Saklad Fellowship
Fraley Johnson, working mom of three, was on the hunt for an LPN to RN program that afforded her the flexibility she needed to work and be there for her kids. That’s when she discovered CFCC’s LPN-RN program, an accelerated program that provides licensed practical nurses the opportunity to continue to study to become a registered nurse.
The program’s hybrid online and in-person format was just what Johnson needed to fit school into her life.
“I did a lot of research on different RN programs in the state and narrowed it down to CFCC,” said Johnson, “based off of the program and the flexibility it allowed with me being a full-time employee and mom.”
Since age 4, Johnson knew she wanted to work in the medical field.
“At first I wanted to be an OBGYN, but that changed when my Nana got lung cancer in ‘99 and passed away from it. I saw the care the nurses provided not only to her but also to our family, and I knew I wanted to be that person for others.”
Sheila M. Saklad Accelerated Nursing Fellowship Recipient
Johnson has been awarded the Sheila M. Saklad Accelerated Nursing Fellowship . Mr. Dan Saklad founded the fellowship in September 2021 in loving memory of Sheila, his wife of 54 years.
This fellowship will provide Johnson, and other students in CFCC’s LPN to RN program, with the funding to cover all educational expenses (tuition, fees, books, supplies, and more), a brand-new laptop, and a living stipend for 12 hours per week of equivalent professional pay, allowing her to work less and spend more time focusing on her education.
“Not only will I be able to give back to the community myself, but I will show my children and other children that anything is possible if you put your mind to it,” said Fraley. “Not many people are able to go through one nursing program successfully with children, but [I will] show others who are battling with doubt that there is no limit to your success and the number of goals you can reach.”
Giving Back
While in school Johnson has been working two jobs.
“Being able to provide care and give back to the community during this pandemic has been so fulfilling. I also enjoy being able to bring joy to my residents all while providing the best care I can for them. They don’t have family coming in to visit now and it is a lonely time for them so I try to brighten their day any way possible.”
To anyone pursuing a career as a nurse at CFCC, Johnson says, “read everything at least twice and find the study habits that work best for you, ask questions—there is no such thing as a stupid question— and most likely at least one other person has the same question but is afraid to ask. Never give up, you can accomplish anything you put your mind to.”
