The ceremony marked an important milestone for the graduates, symbolizing their transition from nursing students to professional nurses. The longstanding tradition included remarks from faculty, administrators, alumni and students, as well as the presentation of nursing pins, the lighting of the lamp and the recitation of the International Council of Nurses’ Pledge.
Marianne Adam, nursing program coordinator, opened the ceremony, followed by remarks from Interim Chancellor Cory Scherer. Nursing faculty member Maureen Sanders served as the guest speaker, while graduating student Alexa Menjivar delivered the student address.
During her remarks, Sanders encouraged graduates to embrace the next chapter of their careers with confidence.
“As you cross the stage to receive your pin and be officially welcomed into the nursing profession and begin your next chapter, remember this: You are capable, you are prepared, you are resilient, and you are absolutely ready for the ride ahead,” Sanders said.
Menjivar reflected on the dedication and compassion shared by members of the graduating class.
“We all chose this incredible profession for the same reason,” Menjivar said. “It takes a truly selfless heart to dedicate your life to a career that often requires sacrificing time with family, setting aside personal struggles, and showing up fully for patients even on your hardest days. Yet, despite these challenges, we continue to choose compassion, resilience and service — because making a difference in someone’s life is what makes it all worthwhile.”
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of pins by faculty and family members, symbolizing each graduate’s official entry into the nursing profession.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of the DAISY Award by nursing faculty member Koren Dixon. The award was presented to Madison Boyer in recognition of outstanding clinical care and compassion. The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 in memory of Patrick Barnes to honor nurses for exceptional patient care.
“Madison’s nomination for the DAISY Award is a reflection of her exceptional dedication to nursing and the remarkable impact she has on every patient she encounters,” Dixon said. “She consistently demonstrates excellent clinical skills, approaching each situation with confidence, competence and sound clinical judgment.”
Ann Blankenhorn, CEO of Geisinger Behavioral Health Center in Danville and representative of the Nursing Alumni Board, also addressed the graduates during the ceremony.
“Today represents the completion of your rigorous training — a journey that has demanded dedication, strong work ethic and deep commitment,” Blankenhorn said. “As you receive your pin, know that it represents not only Penn State, but your commitment to care for others with skill and integrity. You join generations of nurses who have chosen service, responsibility and humanity.”
The ceremony concluded with final remarks from Adam, who congratulated the graduates and recognized their readiness to enter the nursing profession.