Novice to Nurse
![PN Logo]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1739221304/valleytechk12maus/lyjmbuyaktble4afd6fb/PNPLogo.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1739221304/valleytechk12maus/lyjmbuyaktble4afd6fb/PNPLogo.png","width":430}])
BVT Celebrates 20 Graduates at Pinning Ceremony
The Practical Nursing (PN) program at Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT) is a 60-week program designed to prepare adult students with the foundational skills essential for a nursing career. Students navigate rigorous coursework, develop hands-on clinical skills, and cultivate compassion and empathy required to care for patients, all while balancing family and work commitments.
The Practical Nursing Graduation for the Class of 2026 was held on our campus on the evening of February 2nd. The ceremony, which signifies a rite of passage from novice student to practical nurse, opened with welcoming remarks from PN Coordinator Joann L. Monks, MBA, MSc, RN-BC, RMA. Monks praised the program’s strengths, its stakeholders, and the 20 graduates, noting that they have demonstrated readiness to sit for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) examination. She also shared that the program’s previous graduating class achieved a 100 percent NCLEX-PN pass rate.
Our Principal, Michele S. Denise, also addressed the graduates, emphasizing the importance of compassion in health care. “As you take this step forward, remember why you chose this career,” Denise said. “Your presence, your empathy, and your kindness are just as vital as the technical skills you have mastered.”
Class President Alyssa Zereski was unable to attend the ceremony. Class Treasurer Jessika Schotten delivered the class address on her behalf, encouraging classmates to “wear your pin with pride, lead with compassion, and never forget how far you have come.”
Guest speaker Kristen A. Cummings, MSN Ed, RN, Oncology Nurse/Clinical Educator and PN Faculty, told graduates that they had chosen a profession that changes lives and requires heart, humor, and resilience. Class Vice President Hannah Murphy recited the Nursing Pledge.
The graduates proudly received their nursing certificates and were pinned during the ceremony. Graduates from Milford were presented with a citation from Rep. Murray; graduates from Whitinsville received citations from Rep. Muradian, and graduates from Uxbridge and Blackstone received citations from Rep. Soter.
The Faculty Recognition Award was presented to Godfrey Mugerwa, Sybbia Osanya, and Jessika Schotten. The Outstanding Academic Achievement Award was presented to Kelcie Jones.
Those interested in pursuing a life-changing career in healthcare are invited to attend the Practical Nursing Program’s Open House on Thursday, April 2, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Earlier that day, the program will host a Child Safety Fair from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Open to the public, the fair offers families an opportunity to learn about the program while enjoying fun, educational activities for children.
For more information about this adult education program, visit our Practical Nursing page.
