Eleven Northeastern Technical College students pledged their commitment to the nursing profession on December 4 during the Practical Nursing Pinning Ceremony held at the college’s main campus in Cheraw.
Graduates include: Kayla Blackman of Cheraw, Shania Chambers of Pageland, Rochelle Coit of Bennettsville, Alaysha Commander of Hartsville, Sydney Huffman of Cheraw, Jewel Lane of Cheraw, Laryssa Marshall of Cheraw, Jodi O’Neal of Cheraw, Hailey Preston of Bennettsville, Angela Sanchez of Jefferson, and Audra Sowell of Jefferson.
This marks the 33rd class to complete NETC’s 12-month Practical Nursing program since it began in 1993.
Students were recognized before family members, friends, and college administrators for completing the rigorous program, which prepares graduates to take the National Council Licensure Examination to become licensed practical nurses.
Two students received special honors for their achievements. Jodi O’Neal was awarded the Practical Nursing Academic Excellence Award for earning the highest grade point average and demonstrating determination, dedication, and perseverance. Jewel Lane received the Jean L. Harris Award for Outstanding Clinical Performance for exemplifying “the total nurse” and displaying superior clinical skills.
During the ceremony, Jodi O’Neal addressed the audience, reflecting on the journey she and her classmates took to earn their Practical Nursing certificates. Claudia McCollum, MSN, RNC-OB, served as the event’s guest speaker.
As part of the traditional pinning ceremony, each student wore white nursing attire and received a specially designed NETC nursing pin and symbolic lamp. Shania Chambers explained the significance of these symbols and shared the story of Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing, before leading her classmates in reciting the Nightingale Pledge and participating in the ceremonial lighting of their lamps.
NETC Interim President Erin Fann offered welcoming remarks and expressed gratitude to the families and friends who supported the students throughout their program.
Eleven Graduate from NETC’s Practical Nursing Program
