Krystle Addy is a testament to the transformative power of the Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI). Originally from Liberia, Krystle found work as a certified nurse aide (CNA) at a home health locally. But with the amazing support of Metallica’s — yes, the band! — All Within My Hands Foundation, Krystle was able to attend NOVA to advance her nursing career.
Krystle enrolled at the college in 2021 and eventually earned not only her certified clinical medical assistant (CCMA) but also her registered medication aide (RMA) certifications. Her success in those courses encouraged her to continue her healthcare training; she set her sights on NOVA’s new Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, which officially launched in October 2023.
In Krystle’s words, “Once I learned about NOVA’s LPN program, I thought, ‘I’m going for it … I’m going to start my nursing career with this great opportunity!’” In addition to funding for tuition through MSI, further support included a laptop loaner and a stipend to help offset transportation costs. As one of a select few grant recipients, Krystle is “really grateful”: “Metallica, your gift is exceptional,” she said. “I wouldn’t be in nursing school without your help.”
Krystle graduated from the LPN program last month. She and her classmates were the first cohort to complete the newly revamped program. (Read more about LPN graduation)
Krystle’s Video: Thanking Metallica!
More Metallica Student Success Stories:
Instagram Video: Metallica Scholar- Mekdes Kassa Giving Thanks: Mekdes credits the Metallica Foundation for setting her on the path to achieving her ultimate dream of becoming a nurse.
Heavy Metal Band Helps NOVA Student Kick-Start His IT Career: David Proakis is grateful for Metallica. Through the Metallica Scholars program, he received much-needed financial support to take an IT class at NOVA and earn his first IT certification. Now, he’s pursuing a career in this high-wage, in-demand field.
Catching up With a Former NOVA Metallica Scholar: What’s Next? Matthew Marquez continues to be grateful for the support MSI has given him. He strongly believes in this scholarship program and hopes the band will continue to help others unlock new opportunities in their lives.
Heavy Metal Band’s Softer Side: Helping NOVA Students! NOVA student Allison Aliaga says All Within My Hands was crucial in helping her take that first step toward achieving her dream of helping people as part of a medical team and ultimately becoming a doctor.
About All Within My Hands (AWMH)
Established by the members and management of Metallica in 2017 to invest in the people and places that have supported the band, the Foundation is focused on supporting sustainable communities through workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. All expenses of the Foundation are covered by the band, the board, and a few special friends so that 100% of donations go to the organizations it supports. AWMH is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
NOVA is the only community college in Virginia to benefit from the Metallica Scholars Initiative. For a complete list of all 60 colleges currently supported by AWMH and more on the initiative, visit allwithinmyhands.org/metallica-scholars.