SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, Pa. — The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing at Penn State Schuylkill held its third annual Nursing Pinning Ceremony on Friday, May 8, recognizing 29 bachelor of science in nursing graduates as they prepared to enter the profession.
The ceremony, a longstanding nursing tradition, marked the transition from student to professional nurse. Marianne Adam, nursing program coordinator, opened the event, followed by remarks from Interim Chancellor Cory Scherer. Faculty member Maureen Sanders served as the guest speaker, and graduating student Alexa Menjivar delivered the student address.
“As you cross the stage to receive your pin and be officially welcomed into the nursing profession and begin your next chapter, remember this: You are capable, you are prepared, you are resilient, and you are absolutely ready for the ride ahead,” Sanders said.
Menjivar reflected on the shared purpose that brought her classmates to the field.
“We all chose this incredible profession for the same reason,” she said. “It takes a truly selfless heart to dedicate your life to a career that often requires sacrificing time with family, setting aside personal struggles, and showing up fully for patients even on your hardest days. Yet, despite these challenges, we continue to choose compassion, resilience and service — because making a difference in someone’s life is what makes it all worthwhile.”
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of pins by faculty and family members, symbolizing each graduate’s entry into the nursing profession. The program also included the traditional lighting of the lamp and the recitation of the International Council of Nurses’ Pledge.
During the ceremony, Koren Dixon, nursing faculty member, presented the DAISY Award to Madison Boyer. The DAISY Foundation, established in 1999 in memory of Patrick Barnes, recognizes nurses for outstanding clinical care and compassion.
“Madison’s nomination for the DAISY Award is a reflection of her exceptional dedication to nursing and the remarkable impact she has on every patient she encounters,” Dixon said. “She consistently demonstrates excellent clinical skills, approaching each situation with confidence, competence and sound clinical judgment.”
Ann Blankenhorn, CEO of Geisinger Behavioral Health Center in Danville and representative of the Nursing Alumni Board, also addressed the graduates, emphasizing the significance of the milestone.
“Today represents the completion of your rigorous training — a journey that has demanded dedication, strong work ethic and deep commitment,” Blankenhorn said. “As you receive your pin, know that it represents not only Penn State, but your commitment to care for others with skill and integrity. You join generations of nurses who have chosen service, responsibility and humanity.”
The ceremony concluded with final remarks from Adam, celebrating the achievements of the graduates and their readiness to begin their careers in nursing.