A&M International Nurses Begin New Pinning Tradition

"I will zealously seek to nurse those who are ill wherever they may be and wherever they are in need."

These words, found in "The Nurses Pledge," will be recited as part of a new tradition at Texas A&M International University as graduates of the Dr. F. M. Canseco School of Nursing are honored with a historic first pinning ceremony.

The event will take place Tuesday, May 8 at 6 p.m. in the Great Room of the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library and will be followed with a reception. It is free of charge and open to the public.

Dr. Susan Baker, Canseco School of Nursing Director, said the pinning tradition has long been a standard part of nursing school programs around the world.

"Pinning a nurse with her or his RN insignia has come to represent a welcome into the profession and signals the graduate's first step into that profession. It's a way of honoring our graduates and wishing them continued success in the future," she observed.

The ceremony is a memorable event and features a processional, invocation, keynote address, presentation of awards, presentation of candidates and their respective pins and a moving group recitation of "The Nurse's Pledge."

Providing the keynote address for the ceremony will be Clair Jordan, executive director of the Texas Nurses Association.

Musical performances will be offered by Fritz C. Gechter, assistant professor of piano and students James H. Hickey and Monica Martinez.

For additional information, please contact Dr. Baker at the Canseco School of Nursing, 326. 2574, email to sbaker@tamiu.edu or visit offices located in Canseco Hall 315.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu