Newly-Pinned Nurses Strengthen NYC’s Healthcare Workforce
By Office of the President | Feb 25, 2025
Alumni Auditorium brimmed with excitement as the College of Nursing celebrated nearly 200 graduates in a special Convocation and Pinning Ceremony, marking the culmination of years of rigorous study, hands-on training, and commitment for students in the Accelerated Baccalaureate and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs.
At a time when the demand for nurses increases in an aging population, these new graduates are ready to meet the growing demand. As hospitals, clinics, and community health centers face critical staffing shortages, these new nurses are prepared to make an immediate and lasting impact.
This moment marks a profound career transformation for students in the Accelerated Baccalaureate program, many of whom began professionally in other fields before discovering their true calling in nursing with the ability to address critical healthcare needs and provide direct patient care in hospitals and outpatient settings. DNP graduates will enter the field with advanced clinical expertise, leadership, and research skills, ready to drive innovation and shape the future of healthcare with knowledge and compassion.
College of Nursing Dean Lori Escallier, Ph.D., CPNP-PC, FAAN, delivered a powerful message to the graduates, reminding them that nursing is a calling. She spoke about the “sacred moments that define the profession”—from the first breath of a newborn to the final moments of a life well-lived. While clinical knowledge is vital, she emphasized that the true essence of nursing lies in compassion, empathy, and dedication.
Student speakers reflected on their journeys, sharing words of encouragement and inspiration. Jake Britton, an Accelerated B.S. graduate and President of the Nursing Student Council, spoke about the deep bonds formed during nursing school and the importance of teamwork. Quoting the Apple TV series Ted Lasso, he reminded his classmates to “Be curious, not judgmental,” encouraging them to carry the mindset forward amid growth as nurses and individuals.
Representing the DNP Class of 2024, Jenny Cherian echoed this sentiment, highlighting the shared passion that unites all nurses. She reflected on the privilege of their work and the profound impact they will have on their patients’ lives. She encouraged her fellow graduates to embrace their new roles with integrity, compassion, confidence, and purpose.
A highlight of the ceremony was the symbolic Pinning and Lighting of the Lamps, a time-honored tradition marking the transition from student to professional nurse. With their lamps aglow, graduates embraced the legacy of Florence Nightingale, signifying their commitment to service and healing. They then took the Nursing Oath, pledging to uphold the highest standards of ethical, compassionate, and evidence-based care throughout their careers.
Our College of Nursing remains a leader in preparing highly skilled, diverse nurses committed to serving communities across New York. With their education, training, and passion, these graduates are ready to make a difference—advancing healthcare, advocating for their patients.
