For more than 25 years, the Columbine Education Center (GEC) has stood as a beacon of healthcare education in Northern Colorado, launching nearly 5,000 students into meaningful careers and shaping the standard of compassionate care in our community. As we reflect on this extraordinary legacy, we announce with both gratitude and sadness that the GEC, as operated by Columbine Health Systems, is closing its doors.

Amid this transition, we are heartened to share that Cottonwood Healthcare recognizes the profound impact of the GEC and has announced plans to continue this vital program moving forward. While the torch will be passed, today we honor Columbine’s unwavering commitment, deep-rooted partnerships, and the generations of caregivers who began their journeys here.

On Monday, November 10th, the final class of Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) students began their journey at the GEC. This group represents the last in a long, distinguished line of nearly 5,000 individuals who started their healthcare careers within these walls. While the closure marks the end of an era, the legacy of the GEC will continue through the countless professionals it helped shape.

A Legacy of Opportunity and Growth

Since its inception, the GEC’s mission has been clear: to provide high-quality training that empowers individuals to build fulfilling careers in healthcare. For many, the GEC was the first step into a new profession, offering not just education but a direct pathway to employment and advancement. The program’s impact is deeply woven into the fabric of Columbine Health Systems and the broader healthcare community.

The success of the GEC is best told through the stories of its graduates. Many have built long, impactful careers, advancing from CNAs to leadership roles within our organization and beyond. Their dedication and skill are a living testament to the quality of education they received.

Voices from Our Community

The center’s influence is felt strongly at our facilities, particularly at Lemay Avenue Health and Rehab. Jenny Foster, the Director of Nursing, shared her personal reflections on the GEC’s profound impact.

“So many of our leaders started their journey as CNAs through the GEC,” Jenny noted. She proudly listed several team members who are shining examples of this pathway: “Yvonne Willemann (Staff Development Coordinator), Brittany Fisher (Infection Preventionist), Brittany Kuti (Assistant Director of Nursing), Ayla Wheeler (Wound Care Nurse), Erin Wageman (Dietary Manager), Rolly Medina (Activities Director), Lucinda Garza (Scheduling Coordinator), and Christina Gonzales (MDS Coordinator) all got their CNA through the GEC!”

Jenny also highlighted a key milestone in our partnership with Front Range Community College. “Yvonne & Brittany Fisher were the first LPN graduates from the GEC’s partnership with FRCC,” she said. This collaboration expanded the opportunities for our staff, helping them achieve new professional heights.

The ripple effect is undeniable. “I have probably 12+ nurses here that started as CNAs through the GEC and are still here,” Jenny added. This culture of internal growth and long-term commitment speaks volumes about the foundation the GEC provided.

Even before the formal GEC program, Columbine was dedicated to on-the-job training. Jenny reminisced, “Rebecca Wohlers (Business Office Coordinator) & Myself did CNA with on-the-job training at Columbine East then did the State test (no official class). Yes, that just aged me!” This long history of mentorship and education has been central to our identity.

Looking to the Future: Continuing the Legacy

Corrie Shaffer, RN, BSN, and Chief of Nursing for Cottonwood Healthcare, shared her personal connection to the GEC and her excitement for what lies ahead. Corrie began her healthcare journey as a CNA at Columbine West in 2003. Now, as she serves as Chief Nursing Officer for Cottonwood, she feels her career has come full circle, ready to honor and build upon the legacy GEC has established.

“We’re excited to share that Cottonwood Healthcare will continue the GEC program in the months to come. It was immediately recognized the importance of the GEC and the role it plays in career development in our community. The legacy will continue.”

With this commitment, the values and opportunities fostered by the Columbine Education Center will carry forward, ensuring future caregivers continue to find support, education, and inspiration just as so many have over the past 25 years.

A Heartfelt Thank You

The decision to close the Columbine Education Center was not made lightly. As Columbine Health Systems prepares for a new chapter, we reflect with immense gratitude on the GEC’s contributions. We extend our deepest thanks to every instructor, partner, and staff member who dedicated their time and expertise to the center over the past 25 years.

Most importantly, we celebrate the nearly 5,000 students who trusted us with their education. Your passion for care has touched countless lives, and your success is the GEC’s greatest achievement. While its doors may be closing, the spirit of the Columbine Education Center will live on in every patient you comfort, every colleague you support, and every community you serve.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.