Practical Nursing students pinned during special ceremony

Eighteen Isothermal Community College practical nursing students were awarded their pins at a special ceremony recently.

The Pinning Ceremony, held at the Foundation Performing Arts and Conference Center, is the traditional graduation event for the students in the Practical Nursing program.

The graduates of the 2021 class are Brandi Beheler, Shandrea Bowen, Alana Burson, Ashley Crosby, Krissa Dover, Tiffany Fite, Amanda Garrett, Carla Greene, Kelany Hampton, Katey Hembree, Kara Herron, Brooklyn Hill, Galia 'yah Israel, Paul Leonardi, Lucretcia Loos, Gwendolyn Macopson, Brittany Parris, and Katherine Rodriguez.

After marching in to the processional, the new nurses were welcomed by Dr. Greg Thomas, vice president of Academic and Student Affairs. Instructor Carole Koehler, MSN, RN, presented the class awards. Following a message from graduate Brooklyn Hill, the class received a message from Stephanie Denison, MSN, RN, director of the Practical Nursing program. Dr. Shannon Jones, DNP, RN, one of the program's faculty members, delivered the commencement address.

After the presentation of roses and lamps, there was special music before the Nightingale Pledge, led by faculty member Mary Gingles, MSN, RN. Closing comments were made by Ava Yamouti, Isothermal's dean of Health and Public Services.

The class officers were also recognized. They are: Brooklyn Hill, president; Gwendolyn Macopson, vice president; Brandy Beheler, secretary; Alana Burson, treasurer; and Paul Leonardi, class representative.

Isothermal's Practical Nursing program celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2022. For more information, contact Denison at 828-395-1762.