ELLISVILLE – With 48 Jones College Practical Nursing students successfully completing the three-semester full-time program and five-semester part time program, some health care gaps will be filled. However, Director of the Jones College Practical Nursing program, Amy Myers said there will always be a need as nurses face some challenges.
“Today, we celebrate the dedication and compassion of our practical nursing graduates, who are stepping into South Mississippi’s healthcare workforce at a critical time. With the region facing healthcare shortages and increased demand, these graduates are ready to make an immediate impact. Their skills and empathy will help meet the needs of local communities, ensuring that quality care remains accessible and compassionate for all,” said Myers.
Amongst the class of graduates is Theresa McHenry of Columbia. McHenry’s sister, Regina Hamilton, completed the full-time program last December.
One of the program’s instructors, Oshaugnessye McCormick, challenged the new nurses to continue to shine their light for all to see.
“Be innovative, critical thinkers, warm and compassionate and most of all, let your light shine,” said McCormick. “I can stand here and say, speaking on behalf of our entire faculty, we are proud of you as our students, but we’re also proud for you to be our colleagues.”
The ceremony concluded with the traditional Lamp Lighting Ceremony which is a representation of the enlightenment of your mind. The traditional “Lamp Lighting” was inspired by the founder of nursing, Florence Nightingale, who carried a lamp to find and help wounded soldiers during the Crimean War in 1854.
