Tonia Wright: Breaking Barriers and Building Careers in Healthcare

Adult Education instructor looks to make a difference in students’ lives

Instructor Tonia Wright is a shining example of Southern Westchester BOCES’ values in action. She’s known for breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for students and helping them to build brighter futures.

“It’s thanks to her that so many of our students have launched successful healthcare careers,” says Betsy Evans, Coordinator of Adult & Continuing Education. “And they go on to serve others, continuing our mission.”

A proud graduate of SWBOCES herself, Ms. Wright was hired in 2002 and has been making an impact ever since. She created key programs in Clinical Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, and EKG, and helped secure approval from the National Health Association to make SWBOCES an official training and testing site. 

Ms. Wright says she has had many adult learners through the years who shared with her the career goals they’ve had to put on hold due to life's circumstances.

“The programs I instruct allow the students to, in their words, ‘finally accomplish something,’” Ms. Wright said. “During graduation, I celebrate with them and their families because we realize that with hard work, passion, and perseverance, dreams do come true.”

She says her dedication to SWBOCES and its students stems from the reward and gratification she gets from making a difference, not only in the classroom, but in students’ lives.

Today, she teaches in the Healthcare Talent Pipeline Program, a partnership with the Westchester County Association and Career Center that has prepared over 200 students for in-demand hospital jobs.

Ms. Wright’s influence goes beyond the classroom. She’s led outreach efforts including:

• A remote training program for Patient Care Technicians at Mt. Vernon Hospital to help nursing assistants boost their credentials
  
• The Clinical Medical Assistant externship program she launched in 2004 at Open Door Family Medical Center in Ossining
  
• A remote training program at Mercy College for White Plains Hospital staff
  
• A healthcare training curriculum she developed for the New Rochelle Boys & Girls Club through the Mariano Rivera Foundation
  

Through her tireless work, Ms. Wright has guided countless students from the classroom to careers in healthcare—changing lives and strengthening communities along the way.