College of Saint Mary practical nurse graduates achieve 100% pass rate on NCLEX

OMAHA, Neb. – The recent practical nursing graduating class at College of Saint Mary (CSM) achieved a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-PN exam. 

“Passing NCLEX is life changing. It gives these women the chance to build stronger futures for themselves and their families, and it opens the door for them to step fully into the nursing profession,’ said Shamra Lundeen, director of practical nursing. “What they have accomplished reflects their determination, strength and knowledge, and it embodies exactly what we strive for at College of Saint Mary—educating women, preparing them to serve with compassion and empowering them to achieve their dreams.”  

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a standardized test administered by the State Board of Nursing to assess nurses to determine if they are safe to begin working. The NCLEX-Practical Nursing (PN) is for those who have completed a practical nursing program. 

The recent practical nursing graduating class was the largest cohort in CSM history. This is the fourth consecutive year that practical nursing graduates have achieved a 100% pass rate on their first attempt taking the exam. 

“These women came from many different walks of life, from younger single students to mothers raising children, all balancing jobs, families and countless responsibilities. They supported one another, shared their experiences and showed tremendous resilience in reaching this milestone,” Lundeen said. “To have both the largest graduating class in our history and the fourth straight year of 100% NCLEX pass rates is extraordinary. It shows that we have a strong program with a consistent record of preparing confident, capable and knowledgeable nurses who are ready to take on the profession.” 

All of the 28 graduates secured job placement in the community at the time of graduation.  

“Their success demonstrates that they are safe, competent and prepared to care for our families and communities. These incredible women are ones we are proud to have represent both College of Saint Mary and the nursing profession. On behalf of all faculty and supporters, we are inspired by their success and excited to see the incredible impact they will have on the future of nursing,” Lundeen said. 

CSM’s year-long hybrid Practical Nursing Certificate program prepares students for entry-level nursing practice lab simulations and clinical experiences in hospitals, clinics and care facilities. Students get hands-on experience on campus in CSM’s state-of-the-art health professions skills and simulation center. 

The practical nursing certificate program can serve as a pathway to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) for licensed practical nurses.