Denmark Technical College celebrates 2024 nursing graduates

Denmark Technical College proudly marked a significant milestone on August 21 with the annual School of Nursing Pinning Ceremony, an event that honored 13 graduating nursing students on the brink of launching their professional careers. The ceremony, attended by a large gathering of family, friends, educators and college leaders, highlighted the strong community support for these graduates.

The pinning ceremony, a respected tradition in nursing, symbolizes the transition from student to professional nurse. Its origins trace back to the 1860s when Florence Nightingale received the Red Cross of Saint George for her service during the Crimean War.

Dr. Todd and the members of the 2024 DTC Nursing Cohort

“I am incredibly proud of our 2024 nursing graduates. They have shown both an unwavering dedication to their profession and resilience in reaching their educational goals. Despite the challenges they have faced, they remained committed to their program. Their persistence is a testament to their strength and passion for nursing,” said Dr. Willie L. Todd Jr., president and CEO of Denmark Technical College.

“Our nursing graduates have truly exemplified the caring nature that is at the heart of this profession. Despite the demanding coursework, they persevered with determination and compassion. They have gained the knowledge and skills it takes to be a great nurse and are deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of others,” added Karen Myers, dean of nursing at Denmark Tech.

During the ceremony, two students were given special recognition for their outstanding achievements. Faith Malia Mays was named Best All-Around Student and Randall Gadson was honored with both the Academic Excellence Award and the Outstanding Clinical Performance Award.

The evening’s highlight was the presentation of pins, followed by the traditional capping, the lighting of the Nightingale Lamps, and the recitation of the Florence Nightingale Pledge. This pledge, inspired by the Hippocratic Oath, reinforces the commitment of these new nurses to uphold ethical standards and integrity throughout their careers.

The 2024 nursing class includes Clayton Michael Colvin Jr., Kasandra Duley, Tia Ellis, Randall Gadson, Hannah Rhea Hightower, De’Aries Nicole Jackson, Holly Jackson, Tora Janelle Jackson, Tiana Kadedra Jones, Leah Coretta Keitt Williams, Faith Malia Mays, Tamika Monique Jenkins-Singletary and Shavaka Williams.

“As we celebrate the achievements of our newest nursing alumni, we look ahead with great excitement and confidence in the future they will help shape. Our graduates are stepping into a world that urgently needs their skills, compassion and dedication,” said Dr. Todd. “At DTC, we are deeply committed to addressing the critical shortage of nurses, and we are proud to play a role in filling that void. As we look to expand the nursing program, we are dedicated to continuing our tradition of excellence, providing our community with the same high-quality nurses who will go on to make a profound impact wherever they serve.”