Sixteen Northeastern Technical College students made a pledge to the nursing profession on Dec. 2, during the practical nursing pinning ceremony held at the college’s main campus in Cheraw. Graduates included Acie Hargrove of Wallace, Courtney Allen of McColl, Buffie Kasler of Wallace, McKayla Pruitt of McColl, Kasha York of Bennettsville, Belva Abrams of Marion, Allison Bryan of Chesterfield, Kendra Cox of Cheraw, Hannah Gulledge of Chesterfield, Deja Harper of Cheraw, Cameron Jackson of Cheraw, Victavia James of Florence, Keylee O’Neal of Hartsville, Quashonda Page of Dillon, Gennifer Sharon of Chesterfield, and Summer Tyler of Latta.

This was the 29th class to graduate the 12-month practical nursing program since its inception in 1993.

The nursing students were recognized before family members, friends, and college administrators for successfully completing the rigorous program that prepares them to take the National Council Licensure Examination in order to become licensed practical nurses.

Two students were recognized for their achievements in the nursing program. Summer Tyler received the Practical Nursing Academic Excellence Award for having the highest grade point average and showing determination, dedication, and perseverance. Keylee O’Neal received the Jean L. Harris Award for Outstanding Clinical Performance for exemplifying “the total nurse” and having superior clinical skills. Classmate Victavia James spoke to the audience about the journey she and her classmates made towards earning their practical nursing certification, and Celeste Campbell, BSN, RN, LNHA, administrator of Pruitt Health in Dillon, was the guest speaker for the event.

During the pinning ceremony, each student wears the traditional white nursing uniform and is formally presented with a specially designed NETC nursing pin and a symbolic lamp. McKayla Pruitt explained the meaning of each symbol and told the story of Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing, before she and her classmates recited the Nightingale Pledge and performed a ceremonial lighting of their lamps.

NETC President Dr. Kyle Wagner provided welcoming remarks and thanked friends and family members who provided encouragement and support for those going through the practical nursing program. Wagner also formally presented the practical nursing class of 2021 to the audience at the closing of the ceremony.