7 Pitt-Titusville students earned their nursing degrees

Seven nursing graduates from the region were recognized April 30 during the annual nursing pinning ceremony and commencement exercises at the University of Pittsburgh at Titusville.

“It takes a very special person to be a nurse,” Pitt-Titusville’s president, Richard T. Esch, said during the ceremony. “Someone who not only has the knowledge and dedication but also possesses a deep well of compassion and empathy.

“As you begin your career, please remember what your professors taught you, how they patiently guided you and mentored you, and how they set an example of excellence and professionalism.”

Jean Truman, associate professor and director of the nursing program, encouraged the graduates “to make your mark in the health care arena by practicing your profession with integrity and to promote and protect the rights, health and safety of the patients entrusted in your care.

“I also challenge you to advocate for the profession, which you now enter, to collaborate with other members of the health care team and the public to protect human rights, promote health diplomacy and reduce health disparities. There is power in numbers, and you can impact change.”

Receiving pins were Syed Ali of Cooperstown, Laurel N. Beatty of Warren, Renae Laura Blakeslee of Spartansburg, Rachel Christine Chelton of Corry, Savannah Leigh Cornell of Corry, Taylor Ann Machen of Titusville, and Sarah A. Rembold of Oil City.

Following the pinning ceremony, the Associate of Science in Nursing degrees were conferred upon each of the graduates during commencement ceremonies.

At the conclusion of commencement, the new graduates proceeded to the courtyard on campus where they rang the campus bell, which signified their graduate status.

— Pat Franz Cercone

From left, front row: Syed Ali, Taylor Machen, Rachel Chelton and Savannah Cornell. From left, back row: Richard T. Esch, Laurel Beatty, Sarah Rembold, Renae Blakeslee and David Fitz.