OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM) celebrated 23 nursing graduates at a Nursing Pinning Ceremony on May 15.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates received a pin as a symbolic welcome into the nursing profession.
“The pinning ceremony is a time-honored tradition in the nursing profession, signifying not only the completion of rigorous academic and clinical training but also the beginning of a noble journey dedicated to care, compassion and healing,” said Megan Ray, director of undergraduate nursing.
Wearing a pin on their uniform identifies CSM as their institution of learning and serves as a reminder of their commitment to nursing. CSM’s pin incorporates the shape of a cross bearing the gold letters BSN and CSM. The image represents the virtues of worthiness, constancy, truth, loyalty, knowledge and courage.
“You faced each obstacle head-on, demonstrating unwavering resilience and a deep commitment to excellence,” Ray said. “Today, you stand here not just as graduates, but as skilled, compassionate, and capable nurses ready to make a profound and lasting impact on the world.”
Ray presided over the ceremony. Nursing graduate Jasa Wiedel led the invocation, nursing graduate Angel Watts was the student speaker, Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Health Sciences Christi Glesmann gave the closing remarks and nursing graduate Sister Glory Ogu gave the closing prayer.
“CSM became more than a school to me; it became my village, my support system, and my second home. Nursing has taught me compassion, resilience, and the importance of never giving up on people, including yourself,” said Watts.
BSN graduate Melissa Sanchez received the Outstanding BSN Student of the Year Award. The award honors the nursing student who demonstrated extraordinary support and mentoring of fellow students, participation in community service, leadership and teamwork. Students are nominated for the award by their peers.
BSN graduate Lilly Praest received the Spirit of Nursing Award, which honors an exceptional student who represents CSM’s mission through her commitment to nursing, community service and academic excellence. The recipient is chosen by nursing faculty.
“It is exciting to see the leadership and excellence demonstrated by each of you,” Glesmann said. “You have been important contributors to our college and community during your time here and I encourage you to be contributors to your profession and the community during your practice.”
Class of 2026 BSN Graduates:
Renee Acena
Jordyn Chandler
Ivy Cole
Aubrey Dutton
Francesca Farwell
Sienna Hundal
Lana Langdon
Stephanie Lay
Emma Lee
Milvian Lopez Chajon
Nicole Miller
Anna Moore
Sr. Glory Ogu
Lilly Praest
Kayla Reed
Marissa Ring
Melissa Sanchez
Anh Trinh
Kimberly Viegelmann
Angel Watts
Paige Wemhoff
Jasa Wiedel
Nicole Zimmerman