Dept. of Nursing holds Spring pinning ceremony for BSN graduates

Waynesburg University's Department of Nursing held a Pinning Ceremony honoring the Class of 2026 Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates Tuesday, April 21, in Roberts Chapel on the University's campus.

Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Sherry Zak, chair of the Department of Nursing and director of the undergraduate and graduate Nursing program, who recognized the class's achievements, resilience and perseverance throughout the program. A video montage created by Emily Ames, nursing program coordinator, celebrated each graduate and reflected on their time in the program. All Nursing faculty were recognized for their dedication to educating this year's graduating class.

University President Douglas G. Lee also delivered remarks at the event. He commended the academic rigor of the nursing program and praised the graduates for their commitment to excellence. His remarks offered encouragement and optimism as the graduates prepare to begin their professional nursing careers.

Senior nursing student Taylor Brown (South Park, Pa.) was recognized as the recipient of the Academic Achievement Award, presented annually to the graduating nursing student with the highest cumulative GPA.

The Pinning Ceremony is a longstanding tradition that marks the successful completion of the nursing program and symbolizes graduates' transition from student to professional nurse.

"The Pinning Ceremony is the moment when we formally welcome our students into the nursing profession," Dr. Zak said. "It symbolizes their transition from student to nurse and reflects the dedication, perseverance, and compassion required to enter this calling."

Graduates of the program are now eligible to sit for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), the final step toward entering professional nursing practice.

About Waynesburg U.

Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University's Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.

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