Story submitted by the School of Nursing and PSW:
After their convocation on Friday, Oct. 25, graduates from NC’s School of Nursing and Personal Support Work (PSW) took part in the fall pinning ceremony. At the ceremony, a pin is presented by team members in the School to each graduate, a symbolic welcoming of newly graduated nurses and PSW’s into the profession, one which has been practiced for generations.
Although the history of the pinning ceremony dates back to the Crusades in the 12th century, Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, began the ceremony as we know it in the 1860’s. Nightingale was awarded the Red Cross of St. George for her service to injured and dying Crimean war soldiers. Nightingale extended this same honour to her outstanding graduate nurses by presenting each of them with a medal of excellence.
The tradition at Niagara College continues to this day.
The Niagara College pin is a time-honored symbol of the graduates’ commitment, dedication, and hard work. Pins are worn with honour and serve as a proud symbol of the Practical Nursing and PSW programs.
This pinning ceremony is a welcome into the profession and reminder of the graduates’ commitment to serve those in need.
During the ceremony, two awards were also given out to students to recognize their special achievements.
Stuart McDonald receiving his award.
Miranda Ferrier from the Ontario Personal Support Worker Association (OPSWA) presented the OPSWA award. This was awarded to an outstanding PSW graduate, Stuart McDonald.
The Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario’s Student Award of Excellence was presented to Practical Nursing graduate Tingting Zhao by Norma Tomlin ,RPNAO Professional Practice Associate.
Tingting Zhao accepting her award.
This award is presented to one Practical Nursing student from each Ontario College of Applied Arts and Technology who best demonstrates criteria determined by the college practical nursing faculty. The criteria include: strong leadership ability, self-directed learning, excellence in theory and clinical nursing practice professional and personal grown, and an understanding of supporting their professional association.
