The University’s Nursing Class of 2020 participated in a different kind of pinning ceremony this year due to the pandemic: Pinning, Drive-Through Style 2020.
On October 7 nursing graduates returned to campus, where they were greeted by nursing faculty, and picked up their nursing pins. The nursing pin has a longstanding tradition, symbolizing the entrance into the nursing profession. Each graduate received a gift bag a nursing program, the Florence Nightingale pledge with a candle, congratulatory messages from current nursing students, and inspirational words of advice from keynote speakers Dr. Scott and her husband, adjunct nursing faculty member, Finn Scott, MSN.
The Nursing Department also recognized students with certificates. Alexandra Boden and Alex Jackson received the Leadership Award. These graduates demonstrated professionalism throughout the program as both leaders and mentors. They also made significant contributions to the department, student nurse’s organization, and to the greater community.
The nursing class selected Hannah Hoeg for the Spirit of Nursing Award. The class thought Hannah best exemplified the art and science of nursing as a caring professional, whom they would want to take care of one of their family members.
Cody Cleveland received the Baystate Health Scholarship for Nursing for writing an essay exemplifying how he demonstrated compassion to an individual during a clinical rotation.
Chris Gwyn was selected as a class speaker by his class. Chris recorded an inspirational speech for his classmates and his words of encouragement will be remembered.
Congratulations to all of this year’s graduates. Westfield State hopes that you come back to the nest and visit.