Completing a graduate nursing degree is a great challenge and a great achievement – especially during a once-in-a-century pandemic. The Graduate School of Nursing Class of 2021 celebrated its accomplishments at the annual pre-Commencement GSN Graduation Celebration on Thursday, June 3. Many faculty and students came together at the ceremony in the Albert Sherman Center Auditorium while others, along with family and friends, joined remotely via Zoom.
The annual event, which features awards for graduates and educators and scholarships for current students, honored 44 recipients this year.
Remarks from GSN Dean Joan Vitello, Chancellor Michael F. Collins and Provost Terence R. Flotte acknowledged the exceptional challenges graduates took on in the past year. Many worked on the front lines caring for COVID-19 patients as registered nurses and nurse practitioners while completing their rigorous academic requirements.
“It’s an incredible privilege to stand before you because I truly believe you are the best in your profession,” said Chancellor Collins. “You have been trained so well, accomplished so much, and those you’ll provide care for in the future will greatly benefit.”
Following the awards presentation, James Fain, PhD, professor of nursing and associate dean for academic affairs, named each Class of 2021 graduate. The Graduate School of Nursing is conferring five Master of Science, 48 Doctor of Nursing Practice and six PhD in Nursing degrees and six post-graduate certificates at Commencement on Sunday, June 6.
2021 awards and recipients are:
