OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM) celebrated 25 practical nursing graduates at a Practical Nursing Pinning Ceremony on May 15.
The Practical Nursing Certificate (PNC) graduates received a pin as a symbolic welcome into the nursing profession.
“Today is more than a ceremony. It is a celebration of your hard work, perseverance and the extraordinary resilience you have shown. This class is truly remarkable in every way that matters. The strength, depth and quality of this group is something I have witnessed firsthand, and it is a privilege to have watched it unfold,” said Shamra Lundeen, director of the practical nursing program.
Wearing a pin on their uniform identifies CSM as their institution of learning and serves as a reminder of their commitment to nursing.
“You’ve proven that you can do hard things. That you can walk into something uncertain, something overwhelming, and come out of it stronger,” Lundeen said.
Christi Glesmann, assistant dean of undergraduate health sciences, presided over the ceremony. PNC graduate Carmen Estrada Cruz led the invocation, PNC graduate Shyrenna Devers was the student speaker and PNC graduate Luz Lopez gave the closing prayer.
“When I look around this room, I don’t just see classmates. I see resilience. I see people who showed up on days when showing up was the hardest thing to do. I see people who kept going, even when life outside of school didn’t slow down,” said Devers.
PNC graduate Jessica Yepez-Martinez received the PNC 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.
PNC graduate Kenzie Miller 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 nominees encompass respect, integrity, professionalism, caring excellence and diversity. The recipient is chosen by nursing faculty.
“Remember, you are now part of a larger community of healthcare professionals. Continue to learn, grow and strive for excellence. Be the compassionate, skilled and dedicated nurses that you have been molded to be. The world needs you now more than ever,” Glesmann said.
Class of 2026 PNC Graduates:
Ariana Alvarado
Karen Amaya Campos
Kara Collins
Carmen Estrada Cruz
Shyrenna Devers
Olivia Diaz
Hope Franklin
Ashley Gomez
Ella Heineman
Reyna Jimenez-Uribe
Alicia Juan
Nichole Kurtzuba
Samantha Witcher
Kallie Langmack
Denni Layne
Kirsten Limbach
Juana Lopez-Lopez
Luz Lopez
Ariel Marin
Kenzie Miller
Brenda Mims
Thaligia Roeun
Madison Schneckenberger
Tinasia Smith
Jessica Yepez-Martinez