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By: Amy Charles | December 18, 2023
The University of Pikeville Elliott School of Nursing recognized 16 new nurses during the 40th nurse’s pinning ceremony on December 14, in Booth Auditorium.
Students were pinned by nursing faculty and recited the Florence Nightingale Pledge. The traditional ceremonial dates to the 1860s and was adopted by Nightingale to honor her most outstanding graduate nurses.
Karen Damron, Ph.D., RN, dean of the College of Nursing and Human Services, addressed the graduates, praising their dedication and congratulating them on their achievements.
“Nursing graduates, as you receive your well-earned nursing pins today, remember this is just the beginning of your nursing journey. You’re about to embark on a journey filled with challenges, triumphs and unforgettable experiences,” Damron continued. “This is not just a tradition, though. It’s an important milestone and symbol of your dedication and hard work over the past few years.”
Hannah Casey of Phelps, Ky., was the recipient of the Elizabeth Akers Elliott Award, selected by the nursing faculty as a student who “best exemplifies the very essence of nursing, that combines qualities of critical thinking, professional judgment and caring, and that exceeds what is expected of a new graduate.” The award also holds special significance for the family of Elizabeth Akers Elliott, as they established a trust fund to launch the nursing program in her memory.
Brooklyn Bates of Mayking, Ky., received the Spirit of Nursing Award, an honor bestowed by fellow classmates to the nursing student they would most like to have care for themselves or their family. She was also the recipient of the Vivian Day Award, presented to the graduate who achieved the highest grade point average in nursing courses.
The full ceremony can be seen at https://livestream.com/piketvlive/events/11043230.