How discipline and a call to service propelled veteran Cynthia LaRocca’s successful career at Northwell Health

Serving country and community always came naturally to Cynthia LaRocca, director of clinical professional development at Plainview and Syosset Hospitals.

As a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, Cynthia served in a variety of roles including pharmacy technician and field medic. Her military path led to jobs at VA hospitals in Brooklyn, Philadelphia and Nebraska—experiences where “I found nursing and nursing found me.”

Cynthia’s transition to a civilian career at Northwell was eased by lessons learned during her eight years in the reserve. “Discipline is a skill that I have learned from the military and that serves me well at Northwell because it means seeing something through from beginning to end.”

In addition, the teamwork skills she acquired in the military translated easily to the Northwell Health value of being Truly Together: whether serving the country or serving the community, she says, “without your colleagues you cannot achieve your ultimate goals or complete your mission.”

Today, Cynthia manages the clinical professional development of orientations, annual training skills, new equipment and professional acumen for the clinical nursing staff at both Plainview and Syosset Hospitals. And by embodying the Northwell Health value of Truly Ambitious, she has seized opportunities to spread her wings and redefine what it means to work in health care, reaching career goals and achieving credentials including registered nurse (RN), registered nurse–board certified (RNBC) and doctor of nursing practice (DNP).

Work excites Cynthia every day because “I know what I am doing is helping others,” and appreciates that Northwell prioritizes ensuring all military employees feel supported, whether they continue to serve while on the job or are veterans who have completed their service: “The support Northwell gives to those who serve cannot be understated.”

Apply the lessons you learned in the military toward a Northwell Health career. Discover a career well cared for.