RALEIGH, N.C. (December 5, 2025) – Wake County is set to gain nearly 70 new skilled nurses. These graduates from Wake Tech’s Martha Mann School of Nursing are ready to make an impact in the community.
Before their graduation, the students participated in a heartfelt pinning ceremony at the Perry Health Sciences Campus. This event highlighted their hard work and dedication in a field that is increasingly vital. Dr. Scott Ralls, President of Wake Tech, celebrated their achievements, emphasizing the essential role nurses play during uncertain times.
“Nurses are the quiet heroes we rely on most. Your dedication will profoundly affect our community,” Dr. Ralls said.
Dean of Nursing, Anne Jones-Sutton, also addressed the graduates. She reminded them that their journey is just beginning. “Nursing school is tough, but today marks the start of a rewarding career,” she noted proudly.
Each graduate received a nursing pin, a lamp, a red rose, and the Florence Nightingale pledge—symbols that embody their commitment to quality care. With around 250 students enrolled, Wake Tech boasts one of the largest Associate Degree Nursing programs in North Carolina. Ten graduates from the Practical Nursing program were honored as well, stepping into essential nursing roles.
“Our instructors believed in us,” said Cecily Gomez, a Practical Nursing graduate. “They built our confidence to advocate for patients.”
In addition to nursing, students in Medical Assisting, Radiography, Pharmacy Technology, and Medical Sonography received their pins in separate ceremonies. The Perry Health Sciences Campus trains over 3,500 students annually, and an exciting expansion is underway. A new three-story, 100,000-square-foot Simulation Hospital is being built to provide immersive training across various healthcare specialties. This facility will be one of the largest of its kind in the nation and is set to open in 2027.
Interestingly, a recent report from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) highlights a pressing shortage of nurses across the U.S. By 2030, the nation may face a deficit of up to 1 million nurses. As regions like Wake County address this shortage, the contributions of Wake Tech’s graduates can help bridge this gap.
The ripple effect of these new nurses will be felt far and wide. As they enter the workforce, they will play a crucial role in enhancing patient care and supporting the health system’s needs. Their passion and skills will not only save lives but also inspire future generations of healthcare professionals.
