Cerro Coso Nursing Graduates Go Forth To Spread Their Light in the World

The Nursing Class of 2024 consisting of Jamie Foughty, Kelsey Halsey, Christian Jones, Maria Magdaleno, Crystal Mendoza, John Milagrosa, Maritza Ramirez-Trujillo, Blia Vang, Maria Vasquez, James Vercella and Tanickia Walker took part in a traditional capping and pinning ceremony last month that signified their official initiation into the field of nursing.

The ceremony in the Lecture Center ended with the graduates reciting the Florence Nightingale Pledge while holding lit lamps (candles). The pledge is a vow taken by nurses to uphold the standards of their profession.

In a moving moment, nurses in the audience joined the graduates in reciting the pledge.

Chair of Allied Health Department/Director of Vocational Nursing and Health Careers Matt Wanta encouraged the graduates to remember that nursing is more than a career, it’s a calling.

“Your compassion, dedication, and knowledge will not only change lives but also inspire hope in the hearts of those you care for. Congratulations on this incredible achievement, and welcome to the nursing family!" Wanta said.

Up next for the graduates is taking the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Once they pass the exam they will have earned the credential of Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN).

The LVN Program is one of many programs and certificates offered by Allied Health through Cerro Coso, training graduates for work in the healthcare field.

For more information, visit the Allied Health department.

Caption: Nursing graduates pose in front of the Cerro Coso sign at the Ridgecrest/IWV campus. Nursing Class of 2024 at capping and pinning ceremony.