Elon University Nursing Program Honors First Cohort at Joyous Inaugural Pinning Ceremony

On May 21, Elon University celebrated its first nursing pinning ceremony for the inaugural cohort of its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This group of 27 students marked a significant milestone, graduating from the program established in fall 2021, which received accreditation in February 2025.

The ceremony took place in McCrary Theatre, where each student received a nursing pin and a graduation stole. This tradition carries historical weight; pinning ceremonies date back to the 1800s and are associated with Florence Nightingale, the pioneer of modern nursing. She created a special crest for her graduates to wear.

Bella Saliba, a senior in the program, shared the meaning of this special pin. “Pinning signifies the transition from student nurse to professional,” she explained. It reflects both their journey and their future in the nursing field.

Amelia Tally, another senior, expressed pride in being part of this unique cohort. “We have a special bond with our professors and each other that future classes may not experience,” Tally noted.

The ceremony also featured awards for students, including the “Academic Achievement” and the “Trailblazer Award.” One recipient, Olivia Landolfo, spoke about the challenges her class faced, saying, “We learned to be resilient in the face of adversity and paved the way for future students.”

Eric Mulford received the “Heart of the Cohort Award,” voted on by his peers. He emphasized the importance of their shared experiences: “We’ve studied and faced challenges together. To be recognized by them is incredibly rewarding.”

Dr. Cathy Quay, the nursing department chair, closed the event with a powerful message. “People need you. Our healthcare system needs you,” she said, highlighting the vital role nurses play in society.

As these graduates prepare to take their licensing exams, there is a sense of optimism about their future. “We’re going to do amazing things,” Mulford said, looking forward to reuniting at future events and seeing where their journeys will take them.

Interest in nursing programs has surged in recent years, partly due to the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for registered nurses is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, emphasizing the need for more trained professionals in the field. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the importance of healthcare roles, especially following the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Overall, this ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the collective journey of the nursing cohort. They are ready to enter a world that needs their skills and compassion more than ever.

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