Molloy University Honors Nursing Graduates in Pinning Ceremony

Molloy University’s Barbara H. Hagan School of Nursing and Health Sciences honored 91 graduating students at its annual nursing pinning ceremony, held at the Madison Theatre in the Public Square Building on the university’s Rockville Centre campus.

The ceremony marked the students’ transition from nursing education to professional practice.

“I’ve always had a passion for helping people and now I am so excited to finally be out in the field and help save lives,” said graduating nursing student Alexa Kourkoumelis.

The pinning ceremony, a longstanding tradition within the nursing profession, symbolizes the completion of rigorous academic training and the beginning of a lifelong commitment to compassionate and ethical patient care. Molloy University’s nursing pin, designed by the program’s first graduating class, reflects the institution’s mission and heritage.

The Dec. 18 ceremony featured congratulatory remarks from university and School of Nursing leadership, a blessing of the pins, and the formal presentation of pins to graduates, who also recited the International Code of Ethics Pledge for Nurses.

Rooted in traditions dating back to the 12th century, the nursing pin traces its history to honors awarded to caregivers and to Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. Graduates concluded the ceremony expressing excitement as they prepare to enter a healthcare workforce with a strong demand for skilled and compassionate professionals.