Few stories exemplify the promise of a senior living career like Boon Lai Sorrentino’s remarkable journey at our Atria Aquidneck Place community. Her rapid advancement from entry-level position to respected leader demonstrates what’s possible when talent meets opportunity in an organization that truly values employees.
Discovering hidden potential in unexpected places
When Boon joined us in February 2022, she had zero experience in senior living. What she did bring was determination, compassion and a willingness to learn – qualities that we recognize and nurture in each and every employee.
At Atria, we stand out for identifying potential in people, even those without traditional industry experience. We invest in employee growth from day one, creating pathways for career advancement regardless of background.
Building a career through supported professional development
Within just two years, Boon transformed her career trajectory through our professional development opportunities:
- Obtained her Rhode Island Department of Health Certified Nursing Assistant license
- Completed the RI Certified Medication Technician program
- Advanced through multiple roles: Resident Services Assistant (RSA), RSA-CNA, and now Resident Medication Assistant (RMA)
After each certification, we provided the practical training and mentorship needed to excel in her expanded responsibilities. Rather than being content with meeting basic requirements, Boon sought regular performance evaluations and additional training – initiative that we actively encourage in all our team members.
Investing in your future: Tuition reimbursement that works
Our commitment to employee development goes beyond on-the-job training with our robust tuition reimbursement program. We invest up to $5,250 annually per eligible employee for qualifying education programs – whether you’re pursuing a certification, associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree or even advanced graduate studies.
Shannon Wilson, National Director of Engage Life and recent earner of her MBA, credits our tuition program for making her graduate education possible. “Balancing work and school was challenging, but Atria supported me every step of the way. The tuition reimbursement program made it financially feasible, and my supervisors were incredibly accommodating with my schedule.”
Our program covers a wide range of educational paths relevant to career advancement at Atria – from nursing and healthcare administration to culinary arts and business management – making it possible for employees at all levels to pursue their professional dreams.
Supporting families: The Ronnie Boatman Scholarship Program
Our investment in education extends beyond employees to their families through the Ronnie Boatman Scholarship Program. Named after a beloved former Atria employee who embodied exceptional service, this scholarship provides financial assistance to children of our employees pursuing higher education.
Each year, we award multiple scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to help our employees’ children achieve their education goals. For many working parents at Atria, this benefit represents our understanding that supporting employees means supporting their families too.
“When my daughter received the Ronnie Boatman Scholarship, it reinforced that Atria cares about my whole family, not just me as an employee,” shares one of our team members. “It’s made a significant difference in our ability to manage college expenses.”
Leadership growth beyond technical skills
Professional development at Atria extends beyond credentials. Once Boon mastered her clinical responsibilities, she became a lead trainer for all incoming care staff – developing leadership abilities that complement her technical expertise.
Her thorough, precise approach has influenced the entire care team at Aquidneck Place, demonstrating how individual excellence can elevate an entire community’s performance.
Recognition that rewards excellence
Our commitment to employee recognition is formalized through programs like the Exceptional Service Award (ESA), which celebrates outstanding employees with both recognition and significant financial bonuses.
“The Exceptional Service Award isn’t just about acknowledging top performers,” notes Jason Grifka, Executive Director at our Aquidneck Place community. “It’s about creating a culture where excellence becomes the standard. Boon exemplifies what we value most – dedication to residents, commitment to professional growth and the ability to inspire others.”
A workplace that values flexibility and teamwork
While advancing her career, Boon has demonstrated extraordinary adaptability – covering various shifts, including overnight hours when needed. This team-first mentality reflects our collaborative culture, where supporting colleagues and providing consistent resident care takes priority.
Join a company where your growth matters
With communities across the United States and Canada, we offer career pathways in clinical care, culinary services, activities programming, maintenance, management and more – all with the same opportunity for recognition and advancement that Boon has experienced.
For job seekers wondering if their talents will be recognized and rewarded, Boon’s journey provides a clear answer. At Atria, excellence doesn’t go unnoticed, and potential becomes achievement when supported by a company that invests in people and their families.
Ready to write your own success story?
Explore careers at Atria, where exceptional service leads to exceptional opportunities – and where your educational aspirations and your family’s future matter.