New Nurses Graduate from USC Aiken

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AIKEN, SC (05/09/2018) Just before commencement exercises May 9, nursing graduates were recognized during the annual USC Aiken School of Nursing Pinning Ceremony.

As part of this traditional ceremony, nursing graduates received their nursing pins, which symbolize the students' health care achievement. This tradition in the United States dates back to 1880 when the first Nightingale school, named for the renown Florence Nightingale, was established. Nightingale is generally considered the founder of modern nursing.

In addition to receiving their nursing pins, graduates lit a candle and recited the "Nightingale Pledge" during the ceremony.

"The lighting of the candle is symbolic and reminds students that they have dedicated their hands to nursing and human caring," said Dr. Thayer McGahee, dean of the USC Aiken School of Nursing.

"Our nurses pursue excellence and believe excellence is a personal code of conduct. Pursuing excellence in nursing daily means that you strive to give better care today than yesterday, and you allow each day to teach you something useful for tomorrow.

"Congratulations to all these nurses who are equipped and ready - and committed to excellence in nursing."