Aiken Celebrates the Graduation of Future Nurses
This past December 9, Aiken was buzzing with excitement as Aiken Technical College held a special ceremony to honor its newest batch of healthcare heroes—67 graduates from the nursing programs! The air was filled with a mix of joy, pride, and a few tears as these resilient students marked the culmination of their hard work with a traditional pinning ceremony.
Embracing a Noble Calling
Hannah Williams, the dean of the School of Nursing, took center stage and reminded the graduates of the profound impact they’ll have. “Graduates, you have reached this moment through your unwavering determination,” she declared. “As you step into the roles of nurses and patient care technicians, you are entering into a profession that is not only noble, but also vital to the well-being of our community.”
The ceremony itself had deep roots, as the tradition of nursing pins can be traced back to 1880. The beautiful Aiken Technical College pin, adorned in blue and gold with a Maltese Cross and the iconic Palmetto tree, was presented to each graduate as a reminder of the trust placed in them by patients and families alike.
Heartfelt Words of Wisdom
Forest Mahan, the president of Aiken Technical College, was also on hand to offer his insights. “Remember, the pin you wear is a symbol of the trust placed in you by patients, families, and the healthcare community,” he said, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with their new roles. “You will be the advocates for your patients, providing care and comfort through some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.”
Recognizing Outstanding Achievements
The ceremony wasn’t just about the graduates; it also highlighted those who went above and beyond to help their peers. Nursing professor Buffy Halter presented the Tradition of Caring Award to the most supportive students from each program. Brittanie Bradford, Mecca Wilson, and Kambria Thompson were recognized for their kindness and dedication!
A Journey of Resilience
Among the stars of the day was Ricky Baldwin, named valedictorian of the Associate in Applied Science in Nursing program. With experience as a mental health technician, he’s excited to dive into the nursing field. But first, he has to conquer the NCLEX, an essential exam for all nursing graduates. “Pretty soon, I’m going to be sending out a lot of applications,” he noted with a smile.
For Ricky, the toughest part of the program was all about time management. “Every semester was high intensity—just the amount of information you’re taking in,” he shared.
Facing Sacrifices
And he wasn’t alone in his challenges. Erica Jones, the salutatorian of the Diploma in Applied Science in Nursing program, opened up about her experience. “The most challenging part was the sacrifices,” Erica explained. With bills to pay and classes to attend, she had to make tough choices about her work hours. “I’m just thankful I got through it,” she said, crediting her family for their unwavering support.
Looking Ahead
The future is bright for these new nurses, who are now ready to embark on a journey filled with countless possibilities. As they step into their new roles, they’ll carry with them the lessons learned during their time at Aiken Technical College. “Go forward with pride, humility, and compassion,” Mahan advised them. “You will make a great difference in the world.”
With the dedication and commitment shown by these graduates, there’s no doubt they will live up to those expectations as they begin their professional journey in healthcare. Here’s to a future where they will change lives and touch hearts, one patient at a time!
