Keene State Nursing Graduates Embark on Fulfilling Careers

Keene State College honored 18 of its newest nursing graduates in the Class of 2019 during a pinning ceremony on May 10. Many of these new alumni already have positions lined up, including four graduates who have accepted positions at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in the Hematology/Oncology Unit, pediatrics, Intensive Cardiac Care Unit, and Operating Room. One graduate is deciding between two offers from different hospitals, and another expects to begin employment at a children’s hospital.

In addition to firming up career plans, the 18 graduates will take their National Council Licensing Exam (NCLEX) for Registered Nurse in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, California, South Carolina, and Vermont.

Why a pinning ceremony? The pin is a long-standing symbol of service to others, becoming common in the U.S. in the early 1900s. Most recently, the pin has identified nurses as educated professionals who serve the health-related needs of society. It symbolizes entry into the nursing profession, provides proof of education, and represents both the art and science of nursing.