By COLLIN BREAUX
Decked out in the traditional white nurse uniform and caps, newly minted nurses celebrated becoming official caregivers during a graduation ceremony hosted by Florida Panhandle Technical College on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at Shiloh Baptist Church in Chipley.
Sixteen people graduated rom the practical nursing program: Brittnay Adams, Lilli Broome, Havean Curry, Ida Daniels, Shakiah Edwards, Morgan Finch, Maiddjina Francois, Katrina Golden, Triston Hawkins, Megan Heinemann, Chad Joyner, Rebecca Mullins, KaTarah Nelson, Abbie Robbirds, David Tshimanga, and Nicholas Wright.
Class President Rebecca Mullins said the night was a “huge step in our lives” since the graduates celebrated “an accumulation of our hard work, dedication, and perseverance through this program.”
“When we embarked on this journey, we knew it wouldn’t be easy,” Mullins said. “We faced countless challenges, late nights of studying, and moments of doubt but through it all, we remained humble. We supported each other and lifted each other up and together, we overcame every obstacle that came our way.”
Mullins said the graduates would carry empathy, integrity, and professionalism with them and should not forget the importance of lifelong learning and the impact they can have on the well-being of patients.
Technical College Director Bryan Lee said his appreciation for nursing grows with each graduation.
“Nurses are a common thread in many events throughout our lives,” Lee said. “While our primary purpose at FPTC is to provide the training and skills that it takes to be successful in the nursing profession, I recognize that we provide–though extremely proud and thorough–is only a small part of what it takes to be a successful nurse.”
Lee encouraged the graduates to look to experienced nurses for guidance on how they care for patients.
Washington County School District Superintendent Joe Taylor congratulated the graduates.
“I want to wish you all the success in the world,” Taylor said. “You need to be thankful for the most wonderful nursing instructors and staff here.”
Taylor said the graduates also owe their success to family and friends who showed support as the students worked through the program.
GARETT VALCOURT 
Jim Saunders 
Dara Kam 