Pinning Ceremony Recognizes Wegmans School of Nursing December Graduates
On Friday, Dec. 13, 59 December graduates of the Wegmans School of Nursing stood in front of family and friends to receive their nursing pins, marking their official entrance into the nursing profession.
The pinning ceremony was held in the Cleary Family Auditorium.
Dr. Lori Dambaugh, associate dean for undergraduate affairs, served as the ceremony emcee. Dr. Tricia Gatlin, dean of the School, offered remarks before welcoming a student to the podium to share reflections.
“Tonight, as we celebrate you, I am reminded of the rich legacy of the Fisher Nurses who have walked this path before you,” Gatlin said. “You are now joining the ranks of many exceptional individuals who proudly wear this pin—a symbol of excellence, compassion, and dedication to the nursing profession. To each of you, this pin represents more than just a piece of metal—it embodies the countless hours of hard work, sacrifice, and determination you have invested in becoming a nurse and it is a reflection of the outstanding reputation that Fisher Nurses have earned through their tireless commitment to patient care and unwavering dedication to the highest standards of professionalism.”
During the ceremony, graduates read aloud the Nightingale Pledge to symbolize their commitment to the profession. The pledge is named in honor of the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale.
Several students received awards recognizing their academic achievements, service to the profession, and leadership in the School of Nursing. Cora Blunden and Kelly Derleth received the Undergraduate Award for the Highest RN/BS GPA in recognition of academic excellence. The Glover-Crask Simulation Center Experiential Learning Award recipient was Angelica Funes for her significant accomplishments in the experiential learning environments in the School of Nursing.
In addition, three student-nominated awards were presented during the ceremony. The Caring Award – “Teach Me Goodness” recognizes a student who continually provides emotional and physical support to both student colleagues and patients, regardless of circumstances. This year’s recipient was Angelica Funes. The Mentorship Award – “Teach Me Discipline” recognizes a student who conducts themselves in a professional and proficient manner in theory and practice. This year’s recipient was Edward Olivares. The Spirit Award – “Teach Me Knowledge” recognizes a student who shows dedication to the profession of nursing as evidenced by a positive attitude toward learning and excitement to provide for others. This year’s recipient was Amie Salsbury.
December graduates earning their pins included: Emma C. Albert, Hala J. Allen, Claire A. Blauvelt, Cora Blunden, Kileigh A. Bouyea, Antonio Brandon, Richard D. Brimacomb, Maleah R. Britton, Kaitlyn G. Caccamise, Katie A. Cecconi, Kaden D. Chappell, Yeanoor Chowdhury, Sarah E. Costello, Isabella I. Cowan Viele, Julia L. Crocker, Veronica R. Cullen, Zachary J. DeCaro, Kelly Derleth, Emma Q. Donovan, April R. Dumlao, Rebecca L. Dwyer, Samantha Farrelly, Angelica L. Funes, Tyler Gadway, Hayley Gallant, Jillian A. Genthner, Veronica L. Gibbons, Adriana Gumina, Amiah J. Harris, Brianna N. Hedlund, Regina Hilfiker, Parker Hutt, Madeleine R. Kodan, Blessed Kusi, Michaela D. La Bombard, Karuna P. Magar, Aeris R. Maradeo, Kristen L. McIntosh, Jaelyn C. McKee, Lindsay C. Miller, Cloe N. Montanaro, Cole Nadritch, Kennedy N. Northrup, Edward H. Olivares, Sydney Ottomano, Kaitlynn L. Pacher, Taylor J. Payne, Riley V. Rhinehart, Emilea Roe, Amie Salsbury, Ava G. Schrader, Brooke L. Segars, Kaitlyn N. Slough, Shannon Stafford, Jeff R. Suflita, Elizabeth F. Tramonto, Anne M. Vara, Carter Vedrani, and Kayla V. Vorasane.
