May 7, 2015: Students, their families and friends gathered at Indian Rocks Baptist Church for St. Petersburg College’s Spring 2015 Pinning ceremony, the capstone event for a nursing student. In this time -honored tradition, a graduate nurse receives the pin from their nursing school and recites the Nightingale Pledge, which reflects the vision and values of the nursing profession.

Eileen Hicks, MSN, RN, retired nursing instructor, was the guest speaker. Ms. Hicks, a nurse and nurse-midwife for over 45 years, shared strong, inspiring messages for the graduates. Explaining how the art and science of nursing will call for “pure grit … as you share, at times, profound pain and, at others, great happiness.”

Ms. Hicks’ journey led her to live and work in East Africa for many years. There, she experienced many aspects of being a nurse. She discussed the importance of the nurse as an advocate, care-giver, learner and teacher. Important advice: “know the whole story. It is not always easy, but it is worth the journey……may you all know great joy in your JOURNEY.”

The Pinning Ceremony’s success is dependent on our dedicated Pinning Committee Instructors: Mrs. Joanne Goot, Mr. Jacob Schwalb and Mrs. Jackie Murdock. Thank you for making this event so memorable!

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE GRADUATE NURSES!!!!