First-ever Mary Taylor Health Sciences Scholarship winner announced

An employee who has spent her 12-year career in health care at Western Home Communities has been named the first recipient of the Mary Taylor Health Sciences Scholarship.  

Tabitha Reuter started working at Martin Suites as a CNA, with initial plans to attend school for radiology.  

“After working under some amazing nurses, I realized what my calling was,” Tabitha explains. “I loved coming to work to serve the elderly. That is when I knew I wanted to be a nurse.”  

Tabitha quickly took classes to pursue her goal, even with a two-year-old at home and another child on the way. Since becoming a licensed practical nurse in 2011, Tabitha has demonstrated her passion by pursuing additional education, serving as primary nurse and clinical coordinator, working various shifts, and earning a reputation for being a skilled communicator with residents and families.  

Her next goal is to finish her associate degree at Hawkeye Community College and obtain her registered nurse license. It will be another juggling act for the busy single mom.  

“If I was to say it was easy, I would be lying,” Tabitha admits. “But I want to offer my children more. I want to show them what it is like to want something, go for it, overcome obstacles and achieve that dream.” 

The $5,000 scholarship helps make that possible. Tabitha became emotional when informed of the award. She plans to continue growing in her career at the place where she has found a second family. “I pride myself in following the mission, vision and values of Western Home Communities daily,” she says. “Residents have and will always come first. They can trust and count on me.” 

The award is made possible through donations to Western Home Foundation in honor of the late Director of Development, Mary Taylor, who died of melanoma in October 2020.