Nurses pinned with tradition

By Trisha Marczak | The Daily Journal

Published Saturday, May 10, 2008

Nursing graduates from Minnesota State Community and Technical College are continuing on in the tradition of Florence Nightingale.

Students in the nursing program were made official at the Practical Nursing Pinning Ceremony Friday afternoon.

The ceremony, which is celebrated by nursing graduates throughout the world, is considered to be a rite of passage into the nursing profession. The first ceremony took place at the Florence Nightingale School of Nursing in London in the 1860s.

In keeping with tradition, the Fergus Falls graduates recited an historical pledge, which commonly takes place within the pinning ceremony.

“I will assist physicians and professional nurses loyally, to promote health, to care for the sick and to comfort those who cannot recover,” recited 16 graduates of the nursing program at Friday’s ceremony.

Florence Nightingale is considered to be the pioneer of the nursing profession. Raised by a wealthy family, Nightingale pursued the career at a time when it was considered to be a task for the poor.

“There is a lot of tradition behind this. The roots are bound in any community, in any profession,” said nursing site coordinator Echo Breen.

Students in the Practical Nursing program at MSCTC have a special commitment towards their education. Breen said a good portion of her students have made significant sacrifices to accomplish their goals.

Nursing graduate Emily Mickelson originally intended to enroll in medical school after her graduation from The College of St. Benedicts. But after completing her four-year degree, she reconsidered her options.

She was drawn to the holistic-style care that nursing provides and, like Nightingale, she wanted an opportunity to relate to patients on a deeper level.

“I liked the personal nature of nursing. You can really make a difference,” Mickelson said.

Loretta Shaw picked up her first medical book when she was a young girl, but said her fear of in-depth science courses stood in her way of pursuing the career. After receiving care first-hand, Shaw decided to tackle the task. And she’s done well. She graduated at the top of her class.

For her, the pinning ceremony represents the hard work put forth by her and her classmates throughout the year.

“It is a special event, set aside toward the commitment everyone one of us has made.”

Nine students from the program are planning on attending registered nurse training this fall.

Others intend on hitting the job scene straight away. Breen said, whichever path they choose, she’s confident in their abilities to provide the best possible care for those in need.