COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
PROCESSIONAL
Faculty & Graduates
NATIONAL ANTHEM
Jasmine Robinson WELCOME
Kelli Van Buren, MEd Dean of General Education
OPENING REMARKS
Twanda Gillespie, DNP, APRN, ACNS-BC Campus President
FACULTY MESSAGE
Leigha Young Nursing Faculty
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr. Nomathembi Olatunji, DNP, AGPCNP-BC-C, CNE Nurse Practitioner at PACE of Southeast Michigan
STUDENT SPEAKER
Lajoy McKeller
HISTORY OF PINNING
Shelia Douglas-Collins, MSN, RN
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
Dwana Bass, PhD, RN
Assistant Dean of Nursing
CONFERRAL OF DEGREES
Shelia Douglas-Collins, MSN, RN
Dean
of Nursing RECITATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF NURSES’ PLEDGE
Darcelle Carson, DNP, NP-C Nursing Faculty
CLOSING REMARKS
Twanda Gillespie, DNP, APRN, ACNS-BC Campus President 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.