School of Nursing Commencement
By Michelle Paysan-Modina, DNP, Dean
The American University of Health and Sciences School of Nursing (SON) marked two significant milestones on Friday, July 12, 2024: the Pinning Ceremony and Graduation of BSN degree candidates from the esteemed class of 2024. These events hold immense significance for our students, symbolizing their transition from student nurses to registered nurses, and for the nursing profession as a whole. The Pinning Ceremony and Graduation are not just formalities, but they are deeply rooted in the history and values of nursing, signifying the students’ readiness to serve and the profession’s recognition of their commitment.
The Pinning ceremony, a tradition dating back to the 12th century, was originally a mark of honor for knights who aided the sick and infirm. Today, it is a revered tradition closely tied to the legendary nurse Florence Nightingale. Known as the mother of modern nursing, Florence was awarded the Red Cross of St. George in the 1860s for her tireless work during the Crimean War. In a gesture of shared honor, Florence presented a medal of excellence to her brightest graduates. This act inspired the Nightingale School of Nursing at St. Thomas Hospital in London to design and award all nurses a badge with a Maltese Cross upon their program completion. By 1916, the practice of the pinning ceremony had become a standard across the United States and England. The badge symbolizes educated women competent to serve as nurses and provide society with healthcare. A faculty member followed the graduates onto the stage during the ceremony, where they were given the nursing pin. This is often an emotional portion of the ceremony for students and faculty, marking their transition from student nurses to registered nurses, symbolizing the support and guidance faculty have provided throughout the students’ journey. The faculty’s role in the students’ journey is crucial, and their support and guidance are deeply appreciated. This act was followed by the Nightingale Pledge and a candle-lighting ceremony to commemorate Florence Nightingale’s use of candlelight to help wounded soldiers at night. At AUHS, this act was followed by the Blessing of the Hands, a symbolic representation of how the hands should be used to deliver care and compassion and bless all that nurses encounter.
Commencement, in the context of nursing, typically refers to the ceremony held to celebrate and officially recognize the completion of a nursing program by its students. It is often called a graduation ceremony or gathering. During commencement, nursing students receive their diplomas or degrees, marking their transition from student nurses to registered nurses or advanced practice nurses. This transition is not just a milestone but a testament to the dedication and commitment of the new nurses to the nursing profession. It’s a significant milestone where graduates, their families, faculty, and often healthcare professionals come together to honor the new nurses’ achievements and unwavering commitment to the nursing profession, invoking a sense of pride and admiration in the audience.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our students for their remarkable achievements. As they embark on their journey to make a positive impact on the world, we offer our blessings and best wishes for their future endeavors.
