Each student was individually recognized and “pinned” in front of family, friends and faculty, marking the culmination of 10 months of rigorous coursework, clinical experience and personal growth. The ceremony honored the students’ hard work, determination and commitment to entering the healthcare field.
Student speaker Karley Barber-Sherman reflected on the group’s journey and the impact nurses make every day.
“Nursing isn’t just a career. It’s a calling. And answering that call takes strength, courage and an unshakable belief in the value of every human life,” she said. “Your kindness will matter more than you know. Your words will bring comfort. Your hands will heal. Your presence will make a difference.”
WSWHE BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Turina Parker addressed the graduates, recognizing the personal and professional significance of their achievement.
"You've completed a rigorous program that will profoundly change not only your lives but the lives of countless others,” Parker said. “Despite every challenge, you persevered and succeeded, and for that, we wholeheartedly applaud you, Practical Nursing Class of 2025!”
Program Supervisor Sally Schreiber also shared remarks, expressing pride in the students' resilience and dedication.
“Congratulations to all of you. You have put in many hours of hard work and it has led you here tonight to stand on this stage as graduate practical nurses,” Schreiber said. “I am proud of your dedication, tenacity and drive to succeed through all the obstacles you faced these last 10 months.”
Graduates of the program are now prepared to begin careers in healthcare, continuing their mission to care, comfort and serve.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022 there were 655,000 practical nursing jobs. Employment of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is projected to grow 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. Practical nurses provide a variety of direct care services including administration of medication, taking medical histories, recording symptoms and vital signs, and other tasks as delegated by RNs, physicians, and other health care providers.
WSWHE BOCES Adult Practical Nursing Program is dedicated to training practical nurses prepared to work in the future healthcare system. The 1,200-hour Adult Practical Nursing program prepares students to excel in healthcare while meeting the rigorous standards of the New York State Education Department's Office of Higher and Professional Education.
Congratulations class of 2025!
Photos are available in this Google Drive.
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