NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — McCann Technical School honored the achievements of 20 new Practical Nursing graduates at its annual pinning ceremony on Monday.
The group received congratulations and well wishes from faculty, administrators and several other guests.
Superintendent James Brosnan said the new graduates share a comradery together through the shared experience in the nursing program.
"I doubt anybody knew each other before they got here, but now they're best friends for the rest of their lives," he said. "... Notwithstanding everything that the faculty did for you, you did this yourselves. You really made it together."
Lorraine Mancuso, a retired education specialist at Berkshire Health Systems, gave an address to the graduates before they received their pins. She told them to rely on others and work as a team wherever they end up.
"What makes the experience work for both the patient, as well as yourself? That is the healthcare team. The team is what makes that work being performed successful and rewarding for everyone," she said. "Sharing experiences, motivating others and leaning on one another to help the team to be successful."
Practical Nursing Coordinator Christa Berthiaume congratulated the graduates and thanked their families for helping to foster their success.
"Some are natural leaders, some are quiet and observant, some are opinionated and outgoing," she said. "... I can honestly say that this group has come together in a truly unique and inspirational way."
She reiterated that nursing is a difficult and ever-changing profession.
"Nursing is not just knowing about the facts and the medications that somebody has, it is about caring for the whole person: body, mind and soul," she said. "These are memories that you will hold onto forever."
This year's graduates are:
Adams:
Heidi L Comalli
Amber L. Foster
Bryan E. Lillie
Clarksburg:
Donna M. Messenger
Cummington:
Mikayla N. Howes
Dalton:
Lisa M. Gillooly
Kristen N. Soules
Lanesborough:
Caroline A. Knox
Lee:
Heather M. van Lingen
North Adams:
Cassandra M. Follett-Montgomery
Mary M. Karimi
Megan M. Lillibridge
Nicole M. Rivard
Kelley L. Wilson-Wood
Kacie Jo Wood
Pittsfield:
Jillian E. Cimini
Michelle M. Hugar
Andrea R. Jones
Bonnie L. Lyon
Stacia N. Puzio
Jamie G. Smith
This year's scholarship recipients are:
Rachel Canto Botto Rhodes, RN Memorial Scholarship:
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