Nursing graduates were pinned by loved ones during a tradition-filled ceremony at EPCC’s Administrative Services Center Auditorium, marking their transition from students to professionals.
The pinning ceremony signifies the completion of the vocational nursing (VN) program and is an intimate milestone honoring graduates’ dedication and achievement.
“It’s always exciting. Pinning is always a sweet experience for them. It a big deal for them,” Melissa Robertsons, MSN-Ed, RN, VN program coordinator said. “You know, leaving the student role behind and moving into the role of nurses such a big deal. And this is just such a sweet way to kind of wrap up being a student and move into professional nursing.”
Patricia Cruz, Student Nurses Association president, said her passion for nursing grew from caring for her mother, she felt that it was a role she was meant take on.
“Even though she’s in heaven right now, I know she’s here with me,” Cruz said.
Cruz was pinned by her husband, David Cruz and daughter, Camila Cruz. Many of the graduates were also mothers themselves, adding to the emotion as they marked a goal with their families.
“I’m looking forward to serving the community as a nurse, and working to be a better person and a better nurse to help the community and help those that are in need,” Cruz said.
Cruz received the DAISY Award, which stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System and recognizes extraordinary nurses for compassionate, skillful care. She was selected through nominations submitted by her classmates. Kenya Singleton, MSN-Ed, FN, VN faculty, received the DAISY Award for faculty.
Members of the nurse honor guard assisted graduates during the lighting of the lamps and the Nightingale Pledge, as the Nurses Prayer was also recited.
“Nursing is such an amazing profession, so always strive to be the best nurse you can be, keep going for that,” Robertsons said. “Goal of just serving every single patient, loving every single person, treating them like you would want to treat family. Serve your patients well and be the best nurse that you can be.”
Gaby Velasquez may be reached at gavelasquez@elpasotimes.com; @gabyavelasquez on Instagram.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: EPCC marks milestone for vocational nursing graduates in pinning ceremony
Reporting by Gaby Velasquez, El Paso Times / El Paso Times
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