EUGENE, Ore. – Bushnell University’s School of Nursing recently held its annual Blessing of the Hands and Nursing Pinning ceremony, this year hosted at Grace Community Fellowship Church. The meaningful tradition marks a new chapter for nursing students, symbolizing their commitment to compassionate care and their readiness to begin nursing journeys. The special ceremony brought together students, faculty, community nursing professionals, friends, and family members for a moment of reflection and dedication to the nursing profession.
Graduates received their nursing school pin which is a symbol with a rich history dating back to the Maltese Cross. The Crusaders wore the cross in the 12th century as a symbol of their service to Christianity and their devotion to caring for the injured and ill. Florence Nightingale was the recipient of the first, true, nursing pin. The Bushnell blue and gold pin features Bushnell’s school colors with a cross and torch in the center. The cross represents Bushnell University’s Christian mission to seek and answer God’s call in their lives as they discover the path they will pursue. The flame on the Bushnell torch symbolizes illuminating wisdom and a bright future being a guiding light for others, while the torch handle signifies Bushnell University’s longevity and a proud past.
This year, the ceremony honored 19 students from the Accelerated BSN program and six students from the RN to BSN program. Each student was individually recognized for their dedication to the nursing field and their readiness to provide remarkable care in service to others. During the ceremony six graduates were welcomed into the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau, founded in 1922.
Dr. Karla Larson, Dean of the College of Health Professions at Bushnell University, shared her sentiments about the event: “The Blessing of the Hands is a time-honored ceremony which is a heartfelt acknowledgment of the compassion and dedication that our nursing students bring to their future roles. It symbolizes the beginning of their nursing journey to provide care and healing, embodying the values we strive to instill in them.”
Janet Welch, RN, MSN, Director of Nursing at Bushnell, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the ceremony: “As our students embark on their clinical experiences, this blessing serves as a reminder of the profound impact their work will have on the lives of those they care for. It is a moment to honor their commitment to nursing and the service they are about to provide.”
Please visit the university photo gallery for photos from the Blessing of the Hands ceremony.
For more information about Bushnell University’s nursing programs, visit www.bushnell.edu/college-of-health-professions/school-of-nursing/.