NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Twenty-three graduates of the McCann Technical School Practical Nursing program were welcomed into their "noble vocation" Monday night during a pinning ceremony focused on commitment, teamwork, and remembering the smallest acts of kindness.
"Nursing is not really a profession, it is a calling. A noble vocation that demands compassion, skill and commitment to the well-being of those you serve," said Kelli Ann Milne, guest speaker and Berkshire Health Systems Education Specialist. "You will touch lives in ways you cannot imagine; you will be there for people on their best and worst days. You will face miracles, you will face heartbreak, and these experiences will be your guide, and it will nurture your professional experience."
She asked the graduates in the McCann gymnasium to stand before the pinning ceremony Monday night and addressed them directly. She recalled meeting the class for the first time and being astounded by their energy and genuine sincerity.
"Congratulations on reaching this milestone," she said. "You have chosen the path that will challenge you, fulfill you and allow you to make a real difference in people's lives."
She said that the healthcare landscape is ever-changing, and although it is easy to become overwhelmed, they should always embrace opportunities to continue their education. She told them to remain curious.
Milne added that the nature of the job is collaborative, and as nurses, they are part of a team.
"You are joining the community of nurses who understand exactly what you are going through. Lean on each other, support each other, and never be afraid to ask for help," she said. "Celebrate the diversity of your colleagues and learn from one another; recognizing that with power through collective expertise, we can deliver the best possible care. Be an advocate for your patient. Ensure their voices are heard."
She also told them to remember the importance of self-care, noting that it is an essential component of their ability to care for others.
Milne told a story about one of her patients who, in a particularly difficult time, told her it is not the "big things that matter but the small kindnesses," such as adjusting her pillow without asking or remembering all of her grandchildren's names. She asked the students to remember the small things.
"Every day in small ways you will improve the lives of those around you," she said. "The nursing class of 2025 may your scrubs always have pockets, may your coffee always be strong and your compassion never run dry."
Practical Nursing Instructor Meghan Pinsonnault thanked all who support the program. She addressed the students and applauded them for making it through such a challenging program.
"Nursing school is never easy and now you understand what I meant when I said it's hard," she said. "Yet here you are, stronger and wiser and filled with skills and compassion."
She then announced special awards and recognitions.
Michele Haskins Memorial Scholarship- Jordyn Guzman
Rachel Canto Botto Rhodes Memorial Scholarship- Sarah Crockwell, Shelly Hollywood
and Jasmine Boss
Fay Ellen Fosser Award- Sarah Crockwell, Shelly Hollywood, and Samantha Warner
Faculty and Advisory Committee- Julia Eline Wright, Lyza Licht
Rising Star Awards- Gianna Renzi, Jasmine Boss
Future Nurse Leader Award- Hailey Perkins McCraw
Team Player Award- Carlos Rivera
Principal Justin Kratz congratulated the class and thanked family and friends for supporting the graduates.
"We are very pleased to have you here tonight to recognize these graduates who worked very hard to be sitting where they are tonight," he said. "It is a very challenging program. It is a rigorous program and a lot of these individuals have multiple roles they are filling as parents, students, employees, and to pull off what they did is amazing."
After the pinning ceremony, the graduates watched a slideshow presentation celebrating their time in the program. They then took the Nurse’s Pledge and participated in the Candle Lighting Ceremony.
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