The University of the Virgin Islands celebrated 11 new Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates during the Class of 2025 Pinning Ceremony on Wednesday at St. Thomas’ Orville E. Kean Campus. The ceremony, a time-honored nursing tradition, marks a significant milestone for students who have completed their rigorous academic program.
Newly appointed Dean of the School of Nursing Lisa M. Lewis told the graduates that despite her short time with them, their passion for nursing was evident. “I can honestly say, and this is without question, that with students like you, passionate, driven and deeply committed to the call of nursing, [it] helped me to make the decision to lead the school of nursing. It was an easy one. It was an inspirational one,” she said. “Your dedication reflects the best of what our profession stands for, and your presence here today reflects the future of the school of nursing excellence in the Virgin Islands and beyond.”
Lewis emphasized the significance of the pinning ritual: “As you receive your pins this evening, remember, they are more than symbols of achievement. They are reminders of the trust you will earn, the communities you will uplift and the futures you will shape.”
The event featured the traditional lighting of candles and recitation of the Florence Nightingale Pledge, symbolic elements that honor nursing’s heritage while welcoming new professionals into the field.
Class of 2025 representative Kaylan Banjoko reflected on the graduates’ journey. “It is undeniable that our relentless hard work, unwavering dedication and steadfast perseverance has been the driving force behind our success,” she said. “Each step we’ve taken, any challenge we face has molded us into the individuals we are today. But today is not just about reminiscing, it’s about embracing the future. As we step out into the world as nurses, let’s carry the lessons and memories with us. Let’s approach the future with courage and optimism. Ready to make our mark and create positive change.”
Safiya George, president of the University of the Virgin Islands and the ceremony’s keynote speaker, reflected on the profession’s legacy of trust. “Apart from 911, the nursing profession has been the number one trusted profession for decades,” she said. “We’re there with patients and their families in their most vulnerable moments. It’s my time spent at the bedside of patients that matured me, that molded me into the leader I am today and why I take this presidency so seriously. Because each of you, our community, our region, our territory are depending on me, just like they are all depending on these future nurses and current nurses.”
The pinning ceremony, typically held at the end of the academic year, serves as a symbolic rite of passage for nursing students transitioning into professional practice. This year’s event celebrated both the graduates’ achievements and their commitment to serving the Virgin Islands community.
