University graduates six from nursing program in Ketchikan

KETCHIKAN - A formal pinning ceremony for University of Alaska Anchorage Associate Degree Nursing Program in Ketchikan graduates will be held at 6 p.m. today at the Sunny Point Conference Center.

Six registered nursing students will receive their pins. The pinning is a long held traditional nursing ceremony. Speakers include Maureen Northway, UAA School of nursing assistant professor; Erin Pringle, Anchorage faculty; and Ketchikan General Hospital Nurse Manager John McCormick.

Cindy Carson, Sarah Cook, Kristin Fahey, Elena James, Julie Olmstead and Pamela Standley spent two years training in clinical settings in Ketchikan and Anchorage. They also completed college course work which qualifies them to graduate with an Associate of Applied Science, Nursing degree. Graduates are now able to sit for the national licensing exam (NCLEX-RN), and practice as registered nurses.

The program, administered by the University of Alaska Anchorage School of Nursing, has expanded to include 12 sites across Alaska. Clinical support sites included Ketchikan General Hospital, Peace Health Pediatric Clinic, Gateway Center for Human Services, Ketchikan Public Health Center, Alaska Regional Medical Center and Providence Hospital in Anchorage.

The University of Alaska Southeast Ketchikan campus provides a wide variety of educational courses and programs to Ketchikan and the surrounding communities throughout the year. Courses and programs are available locally and distance including web-based and audio-conference classes. Through these offerings, students can achieve certifications, associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees. UAS is an AA/EO employer and educational institution.