Fairfield University’s Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies honored new graduates of the Accelerated Second Degree Nursing (ASDNU) program during separate pinning ceremonies in Austin, Texas, and Fairfield, Connecticut. The event in Austin marked the graduation of the inaugural nursing cohort at the new campus.

Family, friends, faculty, and alumni gathered in support and celebration of the graduates as they received their nursing pins, which were designed 50 years ago by the Egan School’s very first nursing graduates. The design is a gold University seal overlain with a triangle bearing the words "Knowledge," "Understanding," and "Communication."

Meredith Kazer, PhD, APRN, FAAN, professor and dean of the Egan School, welcomed graduates at both locations with words of confidence. “I know that each and every one of you will exceed expectations because that is exactly what you have done at Fairfield,” she said. “We’re counting on you to be leaders in healthcare. As individuals for others, you are uniquely prepared and positioned to accomplish this task.”

At the Austin ceremony, Fairfield University President Mark R. Nemec, PhD, offered his congratulations to Fairfield’s newest alumnae. He also spoke of his high regard for the nursing profession, of which his mother and grandmother were both part.

Separated by two days and six states, the events featured unique lineups of speakers. Steven J. Brockman-Weber, DNP, RN, MSHSA, FACHE, NEA-BC, CENP, president of Ascension Seton Northwest, Southwest, Highland Lakes, Edgar B. Davis, Bastrop, Smithville, and Shoal Creek Hospitals, addressed students at the Austin campus. Kelly Egan, MSN, FAB, interim vice president of Patient Care Services at Griffin Hospital, addressed students at the Fairfield campus.

Both speakers praised graduates for their commitment to serving others in the “most trusted profession.” Additionally, Dr. Brockman-Weber emphasized the importance of practicing compassionate care, while Egan emphasized the importance of practicing self-care.

“To provide the best care for your patients,” Egan implored, “you must also take care of yourself — your mind, body, and spirit. It is important to find balance, nurture your well-being, and lean on your support systems.”

The event culminated with the presentation of the Egan School nursing pin. Graduates individually paraded to the stage to receive their pins, which were blessed during the Austin ceremony by Rev. Kevin J. O’Brien, S.J., vice provost and executive director of Fairfield Bellarmine, and during the Fairfield ceremony by Rev. John Savard, S.J. ’78, interim director of Campus Ministry.

Graduates of the ASDNU program earned a bachelor of science in nursing degree and qualify to sit for the licensure exam to become registered nurses.