GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Wayne Community College honored 13 new practical nurses during a formal pinning ceremony, marking another milestone for the institution’s acclaimed nursing program that has produced over 2,300 alumni.
Traditional Ceremony Highlights Academic Achievement
The ceremony featured time-honored nursing traditions, including the lighting of lamps and recitation of the practical nursing pledge. Female graduates wore traditional nurse’s caps designed specifically for WCC’s Practical Nursing program, while both male and female graduates displayed gray stripes—on caps and sleeves respectively—signifying their status as licensed practical nurses.
Each graduate received a specially designed pin created by some of the program’s earliest alumni, along with a rose and scroll, presented by WCC nursing faculty members.
Faculty and Students Reflect on Journey
“As you end this leg of your journey, please take time to enjoy these moments. Today is your day to shine,” WCC Nursing Department Chair Michelle Garon told the graduates, emphasizing the ceremony as a celebration of their academic accomplishments.
Class President Lani Kincaid spoke about the bonds formed during the rigorous program. “The friendships forged in nursing school are unlike any other,” she said. “The spirit of camaraderie and support is the very essence of nursing.”
WCC Nursing Simulation Coordinator Bryan Johnson acknowledged the graduates’ dedication, stating, “They enter the profession not just with knowledge but with the empathy and strength needed to impact countless lives in meaningful ways.”
Excellence Awards Recognize Outstanding Achievement
Three graduates received special recognition for exceptional performance, each receiving a monetary gift donated by the Foundation of WCC:
Theoretical Excellence Award: Mikayla Cordeiro of Seven Springs achieved the highest academic standard in the program. Faculty described her as self-motivated and proactive with a strong drive to succeed.
Clinical Excellence Award: Jala Roberson of Greenville was recognized for her excellence in clinical practice, with faculty noting her strength in clinical settings, time management skills, and commitment to growth throughout the program.
Outstanding Student Award: Nora Hernandez Lopez of Goldsboro received recognition for achieving high standards in both theoretical and clinical components while actively participating in class and professional activities. Faculty praised her as compassionate, respectful, and incredibly dedicated.
Complete Graduate Roster
The 13 graduates, listed by city of residence:
Dudley: Eric Torres
Faison: Monserrat Quintana-Borbonio, Barbara Santiz
Goldsboro: Zarria Battle, Nora Hernandez Lopez, Shamellar Howard, Lani Kincaid, Cheyenne Sutton
Greenville: Jala Roberson
Kenly: Kimberly Thornton
Mount Olive: Glenda Alegria
Pikeville: Zaida Hinnant
Seven Springs: Mikayla Cordeiro
About the Program
WCC’s limited-admission Practical Nursing program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. The program awards a diploma upon successful completion and prepares students to become licensed practical nurses after passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).
Learn more about Wayne Community College’s Practical Nursing program.
