Ten Lincoln University of Missouri Nursing Graduates Honored at Pinning Ceremony
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Dr. Jennifer McCord, Lincoln University School of Nursing department head, pins graduate Kaitlyn Schaben during the Dec. 16 ceremony.
On Friday, Dec. 16, the Lincoln University of Missouri School of Nursing recognized 10 new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates during a pinning ceremony. A time-honored tradition, the Lincoln University School of Nursing Pinning Ceremony is an initiation of individuals into the profession of nursing. The ceremony was held in Mitchell Auditorium, Richardson Fine Arts Center.
The following BSN graduates received their pins:
- Ellen Gallaher, Wardsville, Mo.
- Jasmine Himmelberg, New Franklin, Mo.
- Alissa Hurst, Columbia, Mo.
- Alexis Kliethermes, New Bloomfield, Mo.
- Makenna Morgan. Jefferson City, Mo.
- Margaret Morris, Mary’s Home, Mo.
- Kaitlyn Schaben, Jefferson City, Mo.
- Hannah Slusser, Chamois, Mo.
- Claire Smith, Wardsville, Mo.
- Alexa Struemph, Jefferson City, Mo.
“You’ve each invested so many long hours studying and in hands-on clinical practice,” Lincoln’s President John B. Moseley said. “You’ve overcome the demand of classroom instruction, labs, clinicals and patient care during what we like to call ‘challenging times.’”
Each graduate earned a grade point average above 3.0 and has been placed with a job upon graduation.
“Tonight is a night of celebration,” said Dr. Jennifer McCord, the School of Nursing department head. “All of these students have worked so hard, especially for the last 2 ½ years on their journey to meet tonight.”
The pin of the Lincoln University School of Nursing was originally designed for the department’s first graduates in 1969. The gold pin is composed of two concentric circles. The center of the inner circle contains the profile of Abraham Lincoln encircled by the words “School of Nursing.” The lower quarter of the inner circle contains a lamp which is superimposed upon an open book. The outer circle of the pin contains “Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri” and is printed in gold letters on a blue background.
In addition to acknowledging the person after whom Lincoln University was named, the pin also symbolizes the value of knowledge and vision in a steadfast approach to the future. Gold represents a valued resource, and blue is one of the Lincoln University colors. The opened book represents nursing’s continuing quest for knowledge; the lamp reminds us of Florence Nightingale, known as the lady with the lamp as she did her nightly rounds on wounded soldiers during the Crimean War.
Each graduate is expected to wear the unique Lincoln University pin as a part of his or her uniform — as a constant reminder of the high levels of achievement and commitment required for nursing practice. The Lincoln University School of Nursing offers a BSN degree and an online registered nurse (RN) to BSN degree. In addition, the school offers a part-time Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing degree at Fort Leonard Wood, with evening courses and weekend clinical options for local, active-duty military personnel and their dependents.
“I know each of you will contribute immensely to the profession of nursing, ultimately strengthening the health care industry,” Dr. McCord said. “You will do great things in your careers.”
Lincoln’s AAS and BSN program options are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and are approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
“Before you start your shift, before you walk in the door, take a moment to think about the training you’ve received here at Lincoln University,” Dr. Moseley said. “Think about the passion our faculty has for you and carry it with you. On behalf of all of us at Lincoln University — thank you. You now stand among many proud nursing alumni who are waiting for you in the field.”