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The pinning ceremony is a tradition that stems from Florence Nightingale when she started graduating nurses. It’s about honoring and celebrating Practical Nursing students prior to their officially entering the profession of nursing.
This time honored nursing school tradition is often more meaningful than the graduation ceremony. It signifies the official initiation into the world of nursing.
The ceremony is rich with symbolism. The modern ceremony dates back to the 1860s when Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, was awarded the Red Cross of St. George in recognition of her tireless service to the injured during the Crimean War.
To share the honor, she in turn presented a medal of excellence to her brightest graduates. By 1916, the practice of pinning new graduates was standard throughout the United States.
The pinning of Practical Nursing students who are about to graduate is a rite of passage and precedes their exam to become a fully licensed practical nurse.
In the full knowledge of the task I am undertaking, I promise to take care of the sick with all the skill and understanding I possess, without regard to race, creed, color, politics, or social status, sparing no effort to conserve life, to alleviate suffering, and promote health.
The ceremony is always packed with loved ones and friends and is truly a big deal and gala event. It’s important to fellow classmates and faculty, as well.
Lots of photos are taken, speeches are made, certificates are presented, and candles are lit. The history of candle lighting dates back to Florence Nightingale’s helping wounded soldiers at night by candlelight.
The emotions and tears overflow. The pride in these students’ accomplishment of completing what is a very difficult program is hard to describe.
