More than 75 SCF Graduates Receive Nursing Pins

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) bestowed more than 75 nursing graduates their nursing pins in a drive-through ceremony Thursday, Dec. 10, at SCF Lakewood Ranch.

The drive-through event was a memorable way to acknowledge the hard work and diligence of the aspiring health care workers. The pinning ceremony began with a welcome from Dr. Carol F. Probstfeld, SCF president, and Dr. Tammy Sawmelle, chief nurse administrator and director of nursing program, congratulated the nursing graduates in this time-honored tradition of the nursing pinning ceremony.

In her remarks to the nursing graduates, Sawmelle shared advice for becoming a successful member of the nursing profession. “Become a lifelong learner. Be a team player. Connect with a mentor. Give back to the nursing profession. And, most importantly, be kind to your patients. People in your care are in vulnerable positions and look to the nurse to advocate on their behalf. Find a moment to look them in the eye and smile. I guarantee they will remember you for a lifetime.”

The graduates earned their Associate in Science in Nursing degrees. More than 99% of SCF’s nursing graduates successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), nearly 30% higher than the state average. The NCLEX-RN exam is used by all state boards of nursing in the United States to assess a student’s competency. A passing grade is required for licensure. SCF also offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, providing working RNs the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree to advance their nursing practice and leadership skills.

To learn more about SCF’s nursing program, visit SCF.edu/Nursing.