The Berkeley College School of Health Studies honored a new generation of healthcare heroes at its recent nurse pinning ceremony held at the Woodland Park campus.
The ceremony recognized 38 graduates of the college’s Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and eight graduates of the Practical Nurse program. Four students also received nominations for the DAISY Award, a program that recognizes nurses for their care and compassion.
Berkeley College Provost Patricia Greer, JD, spoke about the vitality that healthcare professionals bring to communities.
“Nurses serve as the vital front line in our healthcare communities and we are so proud of our nursing graduates at Berkeley College as they represent the best in the next generation of nurses,” Greer said.
Jessica Viglianti, graduating at the top of her class, served as Student Speaker for the BSN graduating class. Viglianti, who was also one of the DAISY Award winners, thanked Berkeley faculty for their steadfast support of nursing students.
“We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Berkeley’s staff, our professors, and all of our friends and families,” Viglianti said. “You have supported us unwaveringly and we could not have gotten here without you. Your dedication and belief in us have been our foundation.”
The joint ceremony on Aug. 2 proceeded with the distribution of nursing pins to each graduate, symbolizing their transition into the healthcare profession. The ceremony ended with the recital of the Florence Nightingale Pledge, a Hippocratic oath, promising to do no harm while practicing discretion.
About Berkeley College
Berkeley College, a career-focused institution accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, offers students master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees and Certificate programs in more than 20 career fields. Berkeley also offers continuing education programs to enhance career credentials. The college has campuses in Newark, Woodbridge, Woodland Park and New York City.
Photo caption: Berkeley College President Diane Recinos, EdD, (far right) shown with some of the 38 recent nurse graduates. – Photo courtesy of Berkeley College.