SPRINGFIELD, Ore. – Earlier this month, Bushnell University’s School of Nursing held its annual Blessing of the Hands ceremony at Springfield Faith Center. The cherished tradition marks a new chapter for nursing students, symbolizing both their commitment to compassionate care and their readiness to begin nursing journeys in both the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program and the RN to BSN program. This twice-annual ceremony brings together students, faculty, family members, and community nursing professionals for a meaningful time of reflection and celebration of this important milestone in students’ journey toward serving others. Our August ceremony honored 21 graduating ABSN students and seven graduating RN to BSN students. Each student was recognized for their dedication to nursing and their readiness to provide compassionate care.
Graduates received their Bushnell University nursing school pin, a symbol with a rich history tracing back to the Maltese Cross. The Crusaders wore the cross in the 12th century as a sign of service to Christianity and devotion to caring for the injured and ill. Florence Nightingale was the first to receive a true nursing pin. The Bushnell blue and gold pin features the university’s school colors with a cross and beacon at its center. The cross represents Bushnell University’s Christian mission, guiding students to seek and answer God’s call as they discern the path they will pursue. The flame on the beacon symbolizes wisdom and a bright future as a guiding light for others, while the beacon handle signifies Bushnell University’s longevity and proud history.
Bushnell’s recently appointed Director of Nursing Katy Lemieux, who has a master’s degree in nursing education, shared her reflections on the event:
“The 12 months we are with our ABSN students I describe as the longest shortest time. The journey for these students from the first day of orientation to the Blessing of the Hands ceremony requires dedication, grit, tenacity and intelligence. This ceremony signifies their completion of the program and their commitment to the profession of nursing. The ceremony was a time of reflection, prayer and celebration.”
Interim Assistant Dean of Nursing Jan Welch, who has a master’s degree in nursing education, added:
“As our ABSN graduates step into their first role as nurses and the RN to BSN students return to their nursing practice with enriched knowledge and leadership skills, this blessing ceremony served as a reminder of the compassion, skill, and faith they will bring to their sacred work. It was a special moment to pause and recognize the profound difference they will make in the lives of others.”
The Blessing of the Hands ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of Bushnell’s nursing students but also commissioned them into the next step of their calling. As they assume various roles in the nursing profession, the blessing stands as a reminder that their knowledge and skills are inseparable from the wisdom, faith, and service they will bring into their work as future nurses.
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/.