“Like branches on a tree we may grow in different directions, but our roots remain as one.”
The motto of the VCU School of Nursing Class of 2007 permeated the air as family and friends filled the seats of the Siegel Center on the evening of Friday May 18th for the Recognition Ceremony. In all, 123 students were recognized, the majority earning a bachelor’s degree, but many others earning a master’s or ph.d. in nursing.
If on the spot polling is a true indicator, the bachelors to masters and ph.d. ratios may well be leveling out in coming years. When class leader Kathleen Martin asked the traditional seniors to raise their hands if they thought they would teach at some point, over 65% held their hands high. Around 90% of the traditional Class of 2007 is planning to attend graduate school for nursing, which is promising that they will indeed teach at some point in their careers. Thus these new graduates will play a role in relieving the nursing shortage in more ways than one. Kathleen rounded out her remarks to graduates by reminding them that “We are heroes, we are nurses.”
In her address to the School’s newest new graduates, Dean Nancy Langston congratulated students on completing their studies and joining the ranks of the educated citizenry. She recognized family members and friends in the audience that had come from as far away as Thailand and Denmark, thanking them for joining in this great celebration and milestone in the lives of graduates.
Dr. David Sarrett, Associate Vice President for Health Sciences, offered remarks and congratulations to the graduates, noting that the Recognition Ceremony is a special time not only for graduates, but also for the faculty and administrators, as graduates are the return on their investment.
As graduates each took their turn across the stage they were presented with a single rose and a handshake from Dr. Langston. Many broke from the ranks to seek out and hug the faculty member (or members) that have made such a difference in their education and their lives, perhaps demonstrating most clearly the impact nurses have on us all.
Photos from the Recognition Ceremony:
Students Make Their Way Across the Floor of the Siegel Center
Undergraduates Gather for the Start of the Ceremony
A Young Family Shows That Nursing School Involves the Entire Family
Dr. Langston Demonstrates that the Commitment of the Class of 2007 Began Early
The Class of 2007 Presents the Class Gift to Dr. Langston
New Graduates Smile for the Camera
A New Master’s Graduate Celebrates with Professor Tanya Huff