Fourteen Lincoln University of Missouri Nursing Graduates Honored at Pinning Ceremony

Lincoln University's December 2023 Nursing School Graduates

On December 15th, the Lincoln University of Missouri School of Nursing recognized 14 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 the Richardson Fine Arts Center.

The following BSN graduates received their pins: Landrie G. Cole, Hailey Colvin, Chloe Cox, Catherine Dampf, Stephanie Fisher, Kaitlyn P. Gatewood, Nyssa Gonzalez, Kendall Haller, Robin Jurgensmeyer, Brenda Murillo Martinez, Olivia Quick, Carlie R. Rieber, Baylee Schenewerk, and Kyrie Walker.

“For those of you who are being pinned this evening, you started your journey before the pandemic, and still, you stuck with it, and your supporters did, too,” says President John B. Moseley. “Wherever you wear your pin, I hope it will remind you of what you learned in the classroom and during your clinicals. I also hope you carry with you the things that can’t be taught, which are empathy, integrity, and compassion.” 

Each graduate earned a grade point average above 3.0 and has been placed with a job upon graduation.

“This hasn’t been an easy journey,” says Dr. Jennifer McCord, Lincoln University School of Nursing department head. “When there were unexpected turns in the road and you faced setbacks, you were persistent, and you never gave up.”

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 encourage you to approach each day with compassion, professionalism, respect, integrity, and gratitude,” says Dr. McCord. “Never take for granted the impact that you have on those around you. You’re making a difference in the lives of your patients, their caregivers, and your peers. You will give those around you hope, strength, and comfort.”

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.

“There aren’t many easy days in nursing but knowing that you did your best and did what’s right will make even the worst days better,” President Moseley says. “Congratulations to our newest nurses and the newest alumni of Lincoln University.”

Photos from the event are available to view, share or download on Lincoln’s Flickr page.