Special ceremony honors newest nursing graduates at Shelton State Community College

Shelton State Community College held a pinning and lamp ceremony Thursday, honoring the newest graduates of the Tuscaloosa college's nursing program.

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Each graduate received a pin that symbolizes the completion of their education and a commitment to service and caregiving. Graduates are expected to wear their pins as part of their uniform wherever they are employed.

The graduates also lit lamps in a symbolic tribute to Florence Nightingale, who used a lamp to light her way as she tended to wounded soldiers during the Crimean War.

Including in this graduating class was the first group of students to complete the practical nursing program at Bibb Medical Center in Centreville.

The group of nine practical nursing students attended classes at a newly renovated clinical space at Bibb Medical Center. They also received financial assistance to cover tuition, books, fees and other expenses.  After receiving their diplomas, the group will fulfill a two-year commitment to work as practical nurses at Bibb Medical Center.

“The need for caregivers has never been greater, and we are indebted to this inaugural class for trusting us and this new endeavor,” said Joseph M. Marchant, president and CEO of Bibb Medical Center, in a news release from Shelton State.

“I’m proud Shelton State Community College has embraced this project and look forward to this continued partnership and its impact on the workforce shortages in our region,” he said.

Shelton State and Bibb Medical Center announced a partnership in 2022 with the goal of Increasing the number of skilled nurses in West Alabama. The Shelton State/Bibb Medical Center practical nursing program began last fall.

“We are absolutely thrilled about the success of our PN students and the partnership with BMC,” said Chris Cox, Shelton State’s president.  “We now have a talented, skilled group of nurses who will join the staff at BMC to provide vital care for the people of Centreville, and they can do so thanks to this invaluable arrangement.”

For more information about Shelton State's nursing programs, go to www.sheltonstate.edu or email nursing@sheltonstate.edu.

Reach Ken Roberts at ken.roberts@tuscaloosanews.com.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Nursing program graduates honored at Shelton State ceremony