Prince William County School of Practical Nursing launches 46th class of graduates

Amid roaring cheers and tears of joy, 26 graduates and 47 students in the Class of 2017 were honored on June 3 at Osbourn Park High School, home of the county’s School of Practical Nursing.

The 26 graduates received diplomas and the nursing lamp, symbolizing that used by Florence Nightingale as she made her rounds to the sick at night. The graduates are entering a field where there is a high demand for their skills locally and nationally.

In the Class of 2017, female students received their cap and the male students received a pin to symbolize their cap. The capping ceremony, a tradition that dates back to the founding of modern nursing, marks the beginning of a student’s clinical experience.

In many ways, the ceremony pays homage to Florence Nightingale, commonly known as the “mother of modern nursing.”

“The lamp not only signifies leading our way to help our patients, but our commitment and dedication to our career and our patients. Today, the lamp is known as the lamp of knowledge,” Tammy Dean, RN, BSN, director, PWC School of Practical Nursing, was quoted as saying in a press release.

Graduates are now eligible to take the National Certification Licensure Examination; once they pass the examination, they can be employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

“Ten out of the 26 graduates already have jobs lined up,” Dean was quoted as saying.