Fifty-two nursing students at USG joined the ranks of 19,000 University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) graduates during a rite of passage known as the Pinning Ceremony, held December 15th at the USG campus. The celebration, shared with a gathering of 550 guests, marked the successful completion of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and the transition into the nursing field as professionals for December 2011 graduates.
A Rich Tradition
In accordance with long-standing tradition, a ribbon holding the official UMSON class pin is draped around the neck of each graduate as they cross the stage by an individual who holds a special relationship with that student – parents, spouses, children, mentors and extended family. Often times, students are pinned by a fellow nurse.
The UMSON class pin has been a tradition since 1894. Until 1970, only members of the Alumni Association were permitted to wear the pin; however, in 1970, the Alumni Association generously offered their pin for use as the official insignia of the School.
A Celebration to Remember
The first portion of the ceremony, including remarks from Dean Janet Allan, PHD, RN, FAAN, was simulcast from the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus, where a concurrent Pinning Ceremony was underway.
At USG the event included heartfelt and inspiring remarks from student speakers, Smitha Israel, Daniel Viera, Candace Mason, Alison Phillips, and Rachael Martin. Judy Logeman, MSN, RN was selected by the students to deliver an address on behalf of the faculty at USG. A class gift was also presented to Dr. Rebecca Wiseman, Assistant Dean for Shady Grove.
This is the second annual UMSON Pinning Ceremony to be held on the USG campus.
Pictures are available for download at flickr.com/uatshadygrove