Gadsden, AL — Gadsden State Community College hosted three separate pinning ceremonies in December to honor the achievements of students completing programs in the Skills Training Division and Health Sciences Division. These ceremonies recognized graduates who are now poised to contribute to the healthcare field as medication assistants, advanced nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and registered nurses (RNs).
Skills Training Division
The Skills Training Division held its pinning ceremony on December 17 at the Science Building on the East Broad Campus, celebrating graduates of the Advanced Nursing Assistant, Phlebotomy, and Medication Assistant programs.
- Advanced Nursing Assistant/Phlebotomy Program Completers:
Students from across the region completed the rigorous 11-week program and successfully passed the Certified Nursing Assistant Examination, with some also achieving certification as phlebotomy technicians. Graduates hailed from cities including Altoona, Attalla, Gadsden, Hokes Bluff, Munford, and Rainbow City. - Medication Assistant Program Completers:
The five-week program prepared students to administer medications in healthcare facilities. Graduates represented communities such as Collinsville, Jacksonville, Piedmont, and Ragland. These students are eligible to sit for the Medication Aide Certification Examination.
Health Sciences Division: Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)
On December 18, the Health Sciences Division recognized its Fall 2024 LPN graduates during a pinning ceremony on the Valley Street Campus. These students completed an intensive curriculum and are ready to provide compassionate care in diverse settings.
- Graduates included individuals from Alexandria, Anniston, Ashville, Atlanta, Gadsden, Oxford, Rainbow City, and other areas.
- Special awards highlighted exceptional performance:
- Florence Nightingale Award: Riley Jones
- Excellence in Academic Achievement: Allie Taylor
- Academic Achievement Awards: Multiple graduates, including Lachantris Colton, Katherine Pearl, and Taylor Hood.
Health Sciences Division: Registered Nursing (RN)
The final ceremony was held December 16 at Gadsden State Cherokee to honor students who completed the requirements to become registered nurses. These graduates, who represent communities across Alabama and Georgia, are now prepared to enter the workforce as highly skilled healthcare professionals.
- Graduates included individuals from Anniston, Gadsden, Centre, Oxford, Southside, and beyond.
- Top honors included:
- Florence Nightingale Award: Jhaylan Redwine
- Excellence in Academic Achievement: Joshua McKenzie
- Academic Achievement Awards: Recognized graduates included Jessica Brumblow, Austin Burchfield, and Haley Foshee.
The three ceremonies underscored Gadsden State’s commitment to addressing the growing needs of the healthcare system by equipping students with the skills and certifications necessary for success.
As these graduates step into their new roles, they bring with them a foundation of knowledge, compassion, and professionalism that will benefit their patients and communities.
