Patricia H. Garman School of Nursing Celebrates Newest Graduating Class at Annual Pinning Ceremony

On December 1, 2025, D’Youville University proudly hosted the Patricia H. Garman School of Nursing’s annual Pinning Ceremony, honoring the newest class of nursing graduates as they began their transition into the professional field of nursing. The ceremony, held in D’Youville’s Health Professions Hub, brought together families, faculty, friends, and members of the healthcare community to celebrate the dedication, resilience, and achievements of the graduating class.

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The nursing pinning ceremony is a deeply meaningful tradition in the profession—symbolizing not only the completion of rigorous academic and clinical training, but also the commitment to compassion, advocacy, and service. Each graduate received a pin bearing the emblem of the Patricia H. Garman School of Nursing, signifying their entrance into a lifelong career of care and ethical responsibility.

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During the ceremony, nursing students Damone Adryon Kenneth Thomas and Jasmin M. Rodriguez spoke about their experience in the program, their remarkable life journeys to D’Youville, and their professional aspirations.

Professor Susan Arnold, Clinical Assistant Professor, offered keynote remarks to students and attendees on behalf of the Patricia H. Garman School of Nursing. Other faculty participants included Dean Shannon McCrory-Churchill; Professor Cindy Adymy, Associate Dean; Dr. Diane Bartella, Director of the Accelerated BSN Program; Professor Kristina Buran, Director of the Traditional BSN and RN-BSN Programs, and Professor Stephanie Juliano, Clinical Assistant Professor.

More than 40 December 2025 Bachelor of Science Nursing graduates received their pin. Graduates also recited the Nurse’s Pledge, reinforcing their dedication to integrity, patient-centered care, and the values foundational to the nursing profession.

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Reflecting on the significance of the traditional pinning ceremony, Dean Shannon McCrory-Churchill commented, "The pinning ceremony is more than a tradition—it is a testament to the resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment of our profession's newest members. 

D’Youville trained nurses have been tested academically, emotionally, and clinically. They show strength and grace through challenge and uncertainty. I am confident that each of our graduates will bring excellence, empathy, and dignity to the communities and patients they serve. The world needs nurses like those we graduate at D’Youville University—prepared, grounded in purpose, and committed to care.”

As the graduates transition into their roles as registered nurses, they join a proud legacy of D’Youville nursing alumni back to the 1940s who continue to make meaningful contributions to global healthcare systems. The Patricia H. Garman School of Nursing remains committed to preparing highly skilled, ethical, and compassionate nursing professionals who exemplify leadership and service.