Riverside City College Nursing Pinning Ceremony Honors 88 Graduates

In a poignant celebration of achievement, Riverside City College's School of Nursing held its Pinning Ceremony on Wednesday, December 13, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication for 88 associate degree registered nursing graduates.

The diversity among the graduates was evident, with 80% identifying as belonging to a minority or historically marginalized group. The ceremony also highlighted a noteworthy gender milestone, as 20% of the graduates were male, surpassing the national average for males in nursing, which stands at 9%.

Twenty-eight students successfully completed the requirements of the Concurrent Enrollment Program with California State San Bernardino. This unique program allows students to fulfill the requirements of both institutions simultaneously, enabling them to earn their bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) just two semesters after graduating.

Two graduates stood out for their participation in the California Apprenticeship Initiative grant between RCC and the California Correctional Health Care Services, showcasing the school's commitment to innovative educational collaborations.

The pinning ceremony, a symbolic transition from student to graduate registered nurse, was marked by the lighting of the lamp of learning. Held by a nursing faculty member, each graduate lit their lamp from the same flame, symbolizing the passing of knowledge from one nurse to another.

The event drew a standing-room-only crowd, emphasizing the significance of the pinning ceremony within the nursing community. For many graduates, this ceremony holds greater importance than their school commencement, providing an intimate and cherished moment to celebrate their accomplishments with friends and family.

Reflecting on the School of Nursing's legacy spanning over 70 years, the ceremony acknowledged recent accreditations, accolades, and outstanding statistics. These accomplishments are representative of the institution's commitment to excellence in nursing education for the community.

During the ceremony, speakers emphasized the profound calling of the nursing profession, highlighting the graduates' role as unsung heroes making a positive impact on society. Acknowledging the academic achievements of the School of Nursing, the remarkable NCLEX pass rates, and a perfect 100% pass rate this year, the graduates were commended for their unparalleled dedication.

As the graduates move forward, the ceremony serves as a reminder that they are not just graduates but architects of the future of healthcare. Their education at Riverside City College has prepared them for the present and empowered them to shape the future, making a lasting impact on the nursing field.