NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — McCann Technical School celebrated the graduation Tuesday of 17 new nurses from its licensed practical nursing program. 

 

"I can say, without reservation, that I am incredibly proud of each and every one of these individuals before you," Christa Berthiaume, program coordinator and doctor of nursing practice, said to family and friends in the school gym. "This class has come together as family to support each other, grow, learn, laugh, and even cry together. 

 

"Thank you for joining us this evening as we celebrate this accomplishment in their lives and thank you for providing the support and guidance that has fostered the success of these amazing people."

 

When they interviewed for the program last January, Berthiaume said she told the program would be hard but that they wouldn't understand until they had gone through it. 

 

She asked them to think back of their first day —what they could do then and what they can do now. 

 

"Throughout this year, we have seen so much growth in each of you. Whether it was overcoming the fear of a certain procedure, going to a clinical site that you were not exactly looking forward to, improving your critical thinking and clinical judgment, and yes, even your nursing-test-taking skills," she said. "The growth is immeasurable."

 

The 10-month, 1,155-hour program began in January and included clinical rotations on evenings and weekends. Many of the graduates were assured of jobs after taking their licensing exam as they were sponsored by entities such as Berkshire Health Systems and Integris Healthcare, which covered costs and paid them a salary.

 

Guest speaker Lynsey Wilk, director of perioperative services at Berkshire Health Systems who also holds a doctorate in nursing practice, said her pinning ceremoney had been the "scariest and happiest day of my life." 

 

"I'm wearing that pin tonight in honor of the countless nurses that have come and gone in my life," said the former McCann instructor. "A group of professionals who have dedicated their lives to the care of others."

 

Over the past dozen years, she'd encountered different types of health-care workers from many countries. 

 

"However, when it all comes down to being a nurse, all have a unique perspective," Wilk said. "When I met all 17 of you in September, I was really inspired —I was inspired by your enthusiasm and the light that you all brought to the lantern. Every single one of you had a meaning on my life that day, sharing your stories."

 

They each had been interested in pursuing further programs, such as mental health or long-term care. "Every single one of you will give your patients the ability to live their lives to the fullest," she continued. "You are the provider to change your patients' lives. You give them hope to stay another day, or you give them hope for peaceful death and transition into their next journey. ...

 

"I know each and every one of you is going to make a splendid impact on our health-care system. We'll all cheer you along the way. I am so grateful you have all chosen to be part of this next generation of nurses."

 

Berthiaume announced the winners of a number of scholarships and awards and School Committee Chair Gary Rivers and Superintendent James Brosnan awarded the diplomas. Rather than pinning, which has been difficult and awkward at times, the pins were put on a loop of green ribbon and friends, colleagues, instructors and family members "pinned" the graduates by placing the ribbons over their heads.  

 

"It's a pleasure to have this evening because you and the family members understand exactly what these students went through, exactly how hard they worked and they had your support to be successful," said Brosnan in opening the ceremony. "Without you, they wouldn't have been successful. Without them, you wouldn't be here for them.  ... These are the people that are going to take care of us in their health-care careers. We are very, very proud to be able to have this ceremony this evening.

 

Berthiaume urged them to think of a moment when a patient was thankful for their words, time or actions, and consider what impact they had made. 

 

"What I would like to do is challenge you to continue to make an impact. Continue to be a positive influence in whatever workplace you choose," she said. "Continue to advocate for patients who need a voice. Continue learning new things, whether that is through certifications, continuing education, or improving your daily practice through reading journal articles. Continue to propel the profession of nursing forward."

 

 

Scholarships and Awards

 

Rachel Canto Botto Rhodes RN Memorial Scholarship: $200

 

Caroline Anwobor 

Heather Blakely

Eunice Brou

William Brown

Jesse Egan Poirier

Schuyler Moody

Venesa Purcell

Jennifer Storti

Tiara Toomey

 

Fay Ellen Fosser Memorial Scholarship

Heather Blakely — $1,000

Jesse Egan Poirioer — $250

Jennifer Storti — $250

Tiara Toomey — $250

 

Michele Haskins Scholarship

Tiara Toomey —$1125.83