COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
PROCESSIONAL
Faculty & Graduates
OPENING REMARKS
Jumana Lakdawala, MEd, BHMS Dean of General Education
NATIONAL ANTHEM
WELCOME
Jumana Lakdawala, MEd, BHMS Dean of General Education
FACULTY
MESSAGE
Tiffany Llera-Lora, MSN, RN Nursing Faculty
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Kathleen Vazquez, MBA, BSN, RN Manager - RN Prelicensure Transition to Practice at Memorial Health
STUDENT SPEAKER
Erika Smith
HISTORY OF PINNING
Jennifer Lucy, DNP, MSN-Ed, PMHNP-BC, APRN, CNE
Dean
of Nursing
The tradition of receiving a nursing pin dates back to the 1860s. This ritual symbolizes the completion of nursing education as established nurses welcome new graduates into the profession. Inspired by Florence Nightingale’s recognition of excellence among her nurses, the pin represents a nurse’s school, values, and commitment to compassionate care. This custom is deeply personal and meaningful, honoring the hard work, dedication, and calling to serve others. Each school’s pin design is unique, reflecting its heritage and mission, and receiving it marks a rite of passage into the trusted and respected nursing community.
PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATES
Jennifer Lucy, DNP, MSN-Ed, PMHNP-BC, APRN, CNE Dean of Nursing
CONFERRAL OF DEGREES
Joshua Padron, EdD Senior Campus President
RECITATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF NURSES’ PLEDGE
Julia Vicente, PhD, RN Nursing Faculty
CLOSING REMARKS
Jumana Lakdawala, MEd, BHMS Dean of General Education
RECESSIONAL
Faculty & Graduates
Content captured during their Commencement may be used on the Arizona College/Arizona College of Nursing website, brochures, social media, advertisements, newsletters, or similar means.