BYU College of Nursing celebrates 132 graduates and encourages them to go forth and serve.
PROVO, UT — The Brigham Young University College of Nursing hosted its 2024 convocation ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of its graduates and recognizing their commitment to excellence in nursing care. There were 132 students graduating, with 10 FNP graduates and 123 undergraduates.
73% of the 132 graduates responded to a survey sent that gathered the following statistics:
- Our graduates hail from 22 states and four countries including: Chile, Switzerland, New Zealand, and the Dominican Republic.
- 73 graduates served missions across the globe.
- They collectively speak 16 different languages (other than English) which include Albanian, American Sign Language, French, German, Haitian Creole, Italian, Khmer, Mongolian, Navajo, Norwegian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Swedish, and Swiss German.
- 52 of the graduates are married.
- 13 graduates have children.
- Many graduates have benefitted from scholarships funded by generous donors to the University and the College of Nursing. Our donors bless students’ lives by making it possible to grant scholarships and fund inspiring, experiential learning opportunities.
Dr. Jane Lassetter, Dean of the College of Nursing, conducted the ceremony, with an invocation offered by Marin McOmber, followed by speeches from students Megan Esplin and Nathan Smart.
After the inspiring speeches, two talented baccalaureate candidates, Natalie Dunkley and Alyssa Wendell, delivered a musical performance of “Lord, I Would Follow Thee”.
Dr. Beth Luthy, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, presented the Master's degree candidates, who were hooded by their culminating writing experience chairs and Dr. Craig Nuttall, Graduate Program Coordinator. Dr. Blaine Winters, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies, presented the Baccalaureate degree candidates. Dr. Larry Howell assisted Dean Lassetter in presenting all of the diplomas.
Throughout the ceremony, the contributions of scholarship donors, faculty, and staff were acknowledged for their support in providing educational opportunities and enhancing the learning experiences of the students.
Afterwards, Tiffany Noss, Alumni Board President, addressed the audience and introduced the tradition and history of pinning.
“The BYU College of Nursing pin was designed by nursing students, reflecting our proud heritage from the LDS Hospital School of Nursing to the current international outreach programs available to our nursing students today… Wear these pins with pride. You have earned them.”
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dean Lassetter, who encouraged graduates to serve with compassion and uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. She emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and spiritual nourishment, reminding graduates of their role as nurses in making the world a better place.
“As Dean, I’m blessed to feel a tiny portion of [God’s] love for you, and even that small portion can be overwhelmingly wonderful. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you embark on this new phase of your lives. May you go forth with faith, courage, and love in your hearts, knowing that the world awaits your talents, your skills, and your unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness."
The College of Nursing congratulates all its graduating students for their hard work and dedication to their programs. We are excited to see what the future holds for these outstanding individuals in their careers and eternal progression.