Arizona College of Nursing - Tucson Commencement Program

HISTORY OF PINNING

Olivia Holt, DNP, MSN-Ed, 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

Colt Savage, MS

Dean of General Education

CONFERRAL OF DEGREES

Sharen Lacayo, DNP, MSN-Ed, RN, BHP Senior Campus President RECITATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF NURSES’ PLEDGE

Jordan Berg, MS, RN Nursing Faculty

CLOSING REMARKS

Sharen Lacayo, DNP, MSN-Ed, RN, BHP Senior 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.

INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF NURSES’ PLEDGE

In full knowledge of the obligations I am undertaking, I promise to care for the sick, with all the skills and understanding I possess, without regard to race, creed, color, politics or social status, sparing no effort to conserve life, to alleviate suffering and to promote health. I will respect at all times, the dignity and religious beliefs of the patients under my care, holding in confidence all personal information entrusted to me and refraining from any action that might endanger life or health. I will endeavor to keep my professional knowledge and skill at the highest level and to give loyal support and cooperation, to all members of the health team. I will do my utmost to honor the international code of nursing ethics and to uphold the integrity of the professional nurse.

GRADUATE CANDIDATES

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

Jenna Albright

Alexis Basurto

Alexandria Betancourt

Alexandra Brailsford

Jana Cardenas

Julissa Cruz

Lourdes Gallegos-Laynez

Michaela Haas

Trinity Huerta

Isiah Jojola

Seth Jones

Briana Kellogg

Gracie Martin

Denee Martinez

Adilma Molinares

Katthya Monreal

Kassandra Montano

Kerem Morales Rosario

Miriam Onaiyekan

Vanessa Perez

Christopher Prado

Mara-Alina Robinson

Cierra Sanchez

Lesley Seppala

Brittany Shimmin

Brandi Sweet

Carmen Swetnam

Melanie Vazquez

Jezelyn Villa

CONGRATULATIONS

ARIZONA COLLEGE OF NURSING

CLASS OF 2026