Celebrating Assumption Nursing Milestones
Assumption nursing students celebrated major milestones on their paths to becoming registered nurses this September. Twenty-three students in the accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program received their degrees and pins, officially making them Assumption nurses. Other nursing students had their hands ceremonially blessed before embarking on their first clinical rotations this year.
On Wednesday, September 2, after only 16 months, ABSN students in Assumption’s second cohort were celebrated with a ceremonial pinning and had their hands blessed. Each student had already earned a bachelor’s degree, and the accelerated program allowed them to pursue a new passion on an accelerated timeline.
After an opening invocation given by Father Dennis Gallagher, A.A., ’69, vice president for mission, President Greg Weiner spoke to the graduates about their incredible dedication to the vocation of nursing and the gifts of both healing and humanity.
“Nurses are the connection between the science of healing and our humanity. Healing is conveyed with extraordinary skill and informed judgment, but also through profound recognition of your own humanity and that of your patients. You will accompany those patients through some of the most challenging moments of the human experience,” Weiner said. “But through your care, your hands, your compassion, your knowledge, your professionalism, you will answer that darkness with the best of what it means to be fully human and to recognize in every human person the likeness of God.”
Jennifer Morton, dean of the Froelich School of Nursing, spoke about the meaning of the traditional nursing pinning, which dates back to the 12th century, and now serves to represent a nurse’s transition into professional practice from schooling.
She also remarked on the incredible accomplishments of the class, saying, “Over the last 15 months, you’ve learned that nursing is both an art and a science. While you cared for and helped to heal your patients, now you are ready to become licensed as professional nurses, where you will use your knowledge to heal, relieve suffering, change lives, and perhaps make somebody’s day just a bit better.”
Eight ABSN students were inducted into Sigma Theta Tau, the international nursing honor society, and honored for that achievement at graduation: Joseph Cavanagh, Skyla Contarino, Grace Cosenza, Emily Dionne, Madison Kelley, Kaylie McDevitt, Sofia Patten, and Caitlin Sweeney.
Additionally, two students were honored with nursing awards. Caitlin Sweeney was presented with the Clarke and Cheryl Alderman Family Award of Academic Excellence for having the highest overall grade point average at the end of the program, and Melissa Peralta was presented with the Dr. Jerome and Marie Froelich Family Award of Clinical Excellence for her exemplary work during clinical rotations.
On Thursday, September 10, nursing students who were entering their junior year and were currently in the accelerated program had their hands ceremonially blessed as they prepared to embark on their first clinical rotations.
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Chad Rohman welcomed the students and guests, speaking to them about the importance of staying both present and mindful while taking on the challenges that lie ahead.
“Students, be present at this moment. I encourage you to look around at your peers, at your staff, and at your faculty. Soak it in. Feel the presence of those who are here to walk alongside you in your journey, to take part with you in this wonderful ceremony,” he said. “Moving forward, remain committed to your work, but find joy in it. Enjoy every step of the journey that leads you from this moment to graduation and to your nursing careers. In this moment, and along the way, also be mindful—of those who have helped and supported you and who will continue to support you on your journey.”
Luis Melgar, director of campus ministry, read a passage from the Gospel of Mark about a woman being healed from an affliction by just the touch of Jesus. When Jesus noticed that she had touched him, her ailment was completely cured.
“My prayer for you is that you will all notice as well,” he reflected. “The nursing profession is filled with so much busyness and chaos, and it can be difficult to process all that’s happening. What makes a difference is slowing down and giving each and every patient the time and care they need. It’s about showing up and noticing what the moment calls for, even when we don’t feel ready.”
Morton then acknowledged the importance of the ceremony, as it not only represents a major milestone for the students but also reflects Assumption’s commitment to forming nurses who are compassionate and focused on holistic care.
“As you begin your hands-on clinical work, the blessing emphasizes your calling to treat each patient, mind, body, and spirit with dignity, compassion, and empathy,” she said. “As you embark on your clinical training in one short week, be reminded of this pivotal moment in your journey to becoming a professional nurse. Be reminded that your excellence in healthcare will flow not only from the education and training you receive here, but from allowing your hands to be a healing presence for others.”