CU Celebrates 2023 Graduating Nurses at Pinning and Convocation Ceremony

Fifty-four graduating nursing students were honored May 17 at the annual Nursing Convocation and Pinning ceremony.  

Donna Naturale, associate dean of the School of Nursing and Public Health, congratulated the graduates.  “As you prepare to enter your nursing profession, always remember that you have been educated to be a caring, compassionate, innovative nurse who can think critically and provide the highest quality of holistic nursing care to your patients, families, and communities.”

Ellina Chernobilsky, Ph.D. interim vice president of academic affairs, congratulated the graduates saying “Your journey was twice as hard because of the pandemic.” Of the special pin the students were receiving she said, “Every time you wear the pin, remember the faculty, the staff, and your classmates, now your colleagues….who shared your educational journey with you and who are a part of your professional life story.”  Let the pin, she said, “remind you that your mission is really trifold – to care, to advocate, and to lead.” 

Megan DeGregorio, valedictorian, said the nursing professors at Caldwell have high expectations for the students and that she was confident that they surpassed each one of them due to their hard work and dedication. “Thank you to all my professors for pushing me. I owe all my success to you and you have prepared me beyond my expectations.”  Quoting from scripture Esther 4:14 DeGregorio said, “Perhaps this is the moment for which you have been created.”  The salutatorian was Caitlyn Gomez. 

Megan DeGregorio, president of the Caldwell University Student Nurses Association (CUSNA),  provided remarks detailing the outstanding accomplishments of the CUSNA board.

The Daisy Award is given to extraordinary nursing students for going above and beyond in care and compassion shown to patients and their families. The recipient of the Daisy Award was Isabella Costa.   

Mary Gerepka, clinical nursing faculty member, received the Faculty Daisy Award to recognize and celebrate the contributions faculty make to the future of nursing.  

Gianna Orricco and Kimberly Solano received the Peer Mentor Award, which provides an opportunity for faculty, staff and students to express appreciation for senior nursing students who consistently set a positive example and embody Caldwell University’s core values of respect, integrity, community, and excellence. 

Kaylee Donaldson and Sarah Pena were presented with the Professional Promise Award, honoring students whose enthusiasm for learning reaches into both classroom and clinical settings. Professional promise qualities include active contributions in the classroom and caring and compassionate nursing in the practice setting. 

The Positivity and Perseverance Award went to Jillian Hamilton and Oluchukwu Nwokelo. The award recognizes senior nursing students who have demonstrated positivity and perseverance while overcoming challenges along their nursing journeys.

The Susan Smiley Greene Spirit of Nursing Award was presented to Megan DeGregorio and Lauren Vasquez recognizing senior nursing students who have demonstrated leadership qualities throughout the Caldwell nursing program.

Courtney Grundhauser and William Hernandez received the Stephanie Faust Memorial Award which goes to senior nursing athletes who embody a passion for nursing while maintaining their dedication to Caldwell athletics.  

Kivonni Wright and Elijah Bosques were presented with the Spirit of Jordan Jimerson Award, recognizing senior nursing students who exude kindness wherever they go.  The award is named in honor of Jordan Jimerson, a graduate of the  Caldwell nursing program who passed away last year.

Director of Undergraduate Nursing Education, Dr. Kathleen Kelley was the mistress of ceremonies.  Nursing Professor Catherine Monetti Ph.D. gave the opening prayer. Sister Joanne Beirne, O.P. led the students in the Professional Nursing Pledge.  

More highlights here!