INA, Ill. (November 6, 2025) — On Friday, October 24, Rend Lake College held the 2025 CNA Conference, sponsored by RLC, the Certified Nursing Assistance Educator Association and the Illinois Nurse Assistant/Aide Training Competency Evaluation Program at SIUC, which saw an attendance of around 50 participants, including high school students.
Attendees had the opportunity to attend the networking vendor fair at the start of the day, followed by keynote speaker Sarah Hopfinger, RLC Associate Nursing Professor and CNA Program Coordinator, with her presentation, "Stop the Pressure."
The CNA Conference held several breakout sessions, including Assertive Communication with SSM Health Good Samaritan nursing staff; and Infection Control Escape Room with Beth Young, Education Coordinator Southern Region of Illinois Nurse Aide Testing.
During the conference, Hopfinger announced this year's CNA of the Year: Makayla Matthias, a CNA at Stonebridge Memory Care.
"Makayla demonstrates excellence in professionalism, reliability, and compassion with residents and family members," said Hopfinger. "She is trusted and loved by all. She is dedicated daily to her work, which is also her passion in life. Caring for others is where her heart lies!"
Picture (L to R): RLC Associate Nursing Professor Sarah Hopfinger and CNA of the Year Makayla Matthias
For more information about the CNA Program, please visit rlc.edu/nursing.
