Bethel University Honors 13 New Nurses in Pinning Ceremony

McKENZIE (May 8) — Thirteen Bethel University nursing students were formally inducted into the nursing profession with a dinner and a pinning ceremony, marking the successful completion of their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree studies.

The formal ceremony at the McKenzie Church of Christ recognized the students who completed the two-year Registered Nurse program. A deeply personal moment for the graduates, the pinning saw family members invited to place the nursing pin on each student's lapel as they crossed the elevated platform.

The ceremony concluded with each graduate receiving a symbolic Nightingale lamp, a Bible, and a tassel for the formal commencement exercise scheduled for Saturday morning. The Nightingale lamp is particularly significant as it honors the legacy of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, and recalls the "Lady with the Lamp". The Florence Nightingale Pledge is a time-honored oath often taken by students entering the nursing profession, establishing a high standard of ethical and professional care in the healthcare industry. Taking this pledge signifies a commitment to dedication, service, and upholding the integrity of the profession.

The 13 graduates who earned their BSN degree are:

• Kassey Briana Bishop, Martin
• Kinsley Reagan Caruthers, White House, Tenn.
• Rylee Grace Holladay, Huntingdon
• Raina Lee Jones, McKenzie
• Hilda Moyo, Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe
• Riley Lee Jones, Gurley, Ala.
• Alyssa E. Slack, Milan
• Viviana Rebeca Villalobos Mora, San Jose, Costa Rica
• Hailey Janea Wallace, McKenzie
• Owen Michael Wheeler, Kingsport, Tenn.
• Aislynn Faith Wiles, New Johnsonville
• Alyssa Shae Williford, Humboldt
• Isabelle Claire Wright, McKenzie

The Bethel nursing faculty includes Ashley Johnson, PhD, RN; Dayna Edwards, RN; Jason Hypes, RN; Tonya Shumate, RN; and Mercedes Hardy, RN. Traci Shepherd, LPN, serves on the nursing staff.