17 nursing students graduate from Manatee Technical College

17 nursing students graduate from Manatee Technical College

BRADENTON -- A ceremony Thursday evening in Cantrell Hall lauded 17 practical nursing graduates at Manatee Technical College.

Nursing instructor Misty Cone spoke of the lighting of the lamp, a tradition that started with Florence Nightingale, who tended wounded soldiers by the light of the lamp.

"The lit lamp is a symbol of gentleness, kindness and comfort -- this is what we offer, this is what we give," said Cone. "Let the light guide you to what your calling is."

Each graduate called a loved one to the stage to pin them. As they walked off the stage, Cone handed each their lit nursing lamp.

"This program was a total of two years. However, in our evening program we still managed to work full-time jobs, fill the roles of amazing super-hero moms, loving daughters, sisters, friends, girlfriends and wives all while studying for exams and attending class and clinicals," said student speaker Katrina Shultis. "As a class we have laughed together, cried together and have stuck by each other's sides despite all that was put in our path."

Graduates participated throughout the ceremony.

June Sturdy sang a prelude.

U.S. Navy veteran Jenny Cashman led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Clovia Miller led in the recitation of the nursing pledge,

Chelsea Sears-Coons closed with a nurse's prayer.

"They have yet to realize the life experiences and emotions they have had will help them with the challenges of nursing," said instructor Kimberly Cuavers. "We are excited and proud to see them continue their journey."

This story was originally published December 17, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "17 nursing students graduate from Manatee Technical College ."