Tulane University Celebrates Inaugural Nursing Pinning Ceremony

Tulane University proudly marked a historic milestone with its inaugural Nursing Pinning Ceremony, a meaningful and deeply moving celebration honoring Tulane University’s first graduating nursing cohort.

The ceremony opened with a Soul Brass Band processional, setting the tone with a true New Orleans feel and reflecting the spirit of the Tulane community. Dean Douglas officially welcomed guests, followed by a warm greeting from Amelia Manning, Dean of the School of Professional Advancement, who acknowledged the significance of this moment for both Tulane University and the broader healthcare community.

Dean Douglas reflected on the historic nature of the occasion, describing it as both the fulfillment of a vision and the beginning of a lasting legacy. She noted that this ceremony marked history in the making and affirmed that this inaugural class, and the program itself, will forever be remembered as pioneers who set the standard, shaped the culture, and defined the future of Tulane Nursing.

A heartfelt congratulatory address was delivered by Dean Hamm of the Tulane School of Medicine, who emphasized the vital role these graduates will play as compassionate, ethical, and community-centered nurses. He spoke to the profound impact they will have on the lives of their patients and the responsibility and privilege that accompany the profession, calling the occasion a “tremendously exciting day” for Tulane and for healthcare in the community.

The ceremony’s honored speaker, Ruby Brewer, a valued member of the Tulane University Nursing Community Council and Senior VP, Chief Nursing Officer, and Chief Quality Officer at East Jefferson General Hospital, delivered an inspiring message rooted in leadership, service, and the profound responsibility of the nursing profession. Her message emphasized that the pinning ceremony represents a lifelong commitment to both the profession and the community it serves.

Brewer spoke to the essential values of service, integrity, and compassion, encouraging graduates to lead with both skill and heart, noting that service is not simply a role, but a way of life in nursing. Her words resonated deeply with students and guests as she urged graduates to embrace growth and purpose in their careers, stating, “Embrace every challenge and opportunity to grow, every patient as a chance to learn, and every day a step closer to the nurse you aspire to be.”

Student speakers Emma Littell and Emma Roberts offered heartfelt reflections, recognizing each graduate and sharing how their cohort grew together throughout the program. Their remarks highlighted the deep bonds formed, the program’s role as a lifeline for support, and the confidence the graduates now carry as they begin their nursing careers.

A central moment of the ceremony was the presentation of the Nursing pin itself, symbolizing the values, dedication, and commitment to compassionate care that define Tulane Nursing. This pin embodies who we are, where we come from, what we represent, what we stand for, and the community we proudly serve.

Three distinguished student awards were presented. Callie Elizabeth Pescay was honored with two awards: the Clinical Excellence Award and the Academic Excellence Award for achieving the highest GPA. The Elma I. LeDoux Community Service Award was presented to Emma Cole Roberts.

The ceremony marked Tulane University’s first nursing pinning, a significant achievement reflecting the dedication of students, staff, faculty, and leadership. Graduates leave prepared to successfully pass the nursing licensure examination and serve as compassionate leaders and advocates for health within our community.

Tulane extends its deepest gratitude to its faculty and staff, to Dean Douglas, and to Dr. Mayville for their tireless commitment and leadership in building the nursing program.

As Tulane Nursing looks ahead, the University celebrates this milestone with pride and anticipation for the future of nursing education and community impact.