PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Community College (BCC) held a traditional pinning ceremony for 28 graduates of the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program on Thursday, Jan. 18 at the Robert Boland Theatre on the main campus.  

 

The wearing of the school pin symbolizes the right to serve others, signifying the acceptance of the responsibilities of the practice of nursing and the educational preparation of the wearer. The ceremony is a time-honored nursing school tradition dating to the turn of the twentieth century. The gold center of the pin features the college seal, including the words "To travel hopefully."   

 

Three graduates received awards:  

 

Mercedes Santana received the Academic Excellence in Nursing Award, which is presented to the student who has the highest GPA within the ADN program and is given in acknowledgment of academic excellence in nursing. This award recognizes the student's hard work and determination demonstrated in the pursuit of nursing knowledge.  

 

Kylah Rivest received the Clinical Excellence in Nursing Award, which is presented to a student who performs exemplary delivery of nursing skills in the clinical setting. This award recognizes the role of advocacy in nursing by promoting compassionate and holistic patient-centered

 care.  

 

Sandra Ukandu received the Professionalism in Nursing Award, which is presented to a student who is committed to high quality patient care, and who also serves as a role model for teamwork and collaboration. The award recognizes the importance of communication and critical thinking while promoting the positive image of nursing. 

 

The ceremony honored the following Class of 2023 graduates: 

 

Windsor, CT: Olivia Royster

 

Adams, MA: Kelsey Bradley, Chastity Gigliotti, Wendy Parmelee 

 

Agawam, MA: Mercedes Santana 

 

Chicopee, MA: Jacqueline Blake, Sandra Ukandu 

 

Great Barrington, MA: Kylah Rivest

 

Hinsdale, MA: Bridgid Reed

 

Hyannis, MA: Daniel Barroso

 

North Adams, MA: Justin Day, Ashley Ring 

 

Pittsfield, MA: Abena Afrim, Caitlyn Croshier, Ashley Evans, Tabitha Fresia, Adrienne Hanson, Kevin Elorm, Amanda Mazza, Dejai Nyhan, Ethan O'Brien, Shaina Petell, Lesline Rostick, Kaitlyn Ryan 

 

Savoy, MA: Hailey Williams

 

Springfield, MA: Jerica Acevedo, Brittany Turner 

 

Williamstown, MA: Mia Alpi