Yvonne J. Graham, assistant to Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, addressed 23 graduates of the Touro College School of Health Sciences at a pinning and awards ceremony that attracted a crowd of approximately 300.
Surrounded by their families and friends at the ceremony in the Renaissance Ballroom in Brooklyn, the candidates were recognized for associate in applied science degrees with a concentration in nursing.
The highlight of the event was the pinning ceremony — a symbolic bridge linking nursing’s past to nursing’s future. At the ceremony, the students dedicated the actual pinning to family members and/or faculty who guided and helped them along the way.
Dr. Alona Harris, chairperson for the Department of Nursing, welcomed the attendees, thanked families, faculty and administration for their continued support, and hailed students for their accomplishments.
Dr. Joseph Weisberg, dean of the School of Health Sciences, told the graduates: “You are about to start practicing your nursing skills and you will be working with others as members of the medical team. Please do not be shy. Ask questions. If you do, you will make fewer mistakes, and you will grow professionally.”
Graham told the graduates, “Where you go in your lives shall have an impact on your profession. Always remember where you received your education; always remember Touro College.” She continued: “Your warmth and sensitivity as a nurse will always have an impact on those you come in contact with. Make an effort to join the political network to advocate for your nursing profession and your community at large.”
In her closing remarks, Graham reminded the graduates that “being compassionate and caring will yield immeasurable results.”
