The University of Florida College of Nursing honored its Summer 2025 graduating class during its traditional Pinning Ceremony on Friday, Aug. 8, at the historic University Auditorium.
The ceremony marked not only the transition from student to nurse but also underscored the enduring support of loved ones who helped make the journey possible.
Continuing a new practice started by the college in May, each nursing graduate was pinned by a person of their choosing — a family member, friend, mentor or loved one — making the moment deeply personal.
“I am incredibly proud to see this group of passionate Gator Nurses graduate, spread their wings, and take flight into a profession that is as rewarding as it is impactful,” said Shakira Henderson, PhD, DNP, MS, MPH, MBA, IBCLC, RNC-NIC, dean of the UF College of Nursing and chief nurse executive for UF Health. “To the families of our graduating Gator Nurses, thank you for the unwavering support, love, and encouragement you have poured into these remarkable individuals throughout their journey. Your sacrifices, prayers, and belief in their calling have been the foundation upon which their success was built.”
For many students, the moment was emotional. Some chose to be pinned by those who inspired them, while others selected parents or partners who stood by them through countless study sessions and clinical hours.
The event coincided with UF’s Summer Commencement ceremonies, also held Aug. 8, where the graduates were formally conferred their degrees. Together, the day marked the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service in health care.
Karen A. Reed, DHSc, MSN, RN, CNE, CRRN, associate dean for academic affairs — undergraduate education and clinical associate professor, congratulated the students on joining the proud legacy of Gator Nurses.
“We celebrate your passage today into the ranks of the thousands of Gator Nurses who have gone before you. You are joining the exclusive ranks of our alumni, and as such, you carry a tradition across the nation and the world to care, lead and inspire boldly.” Reed said.
Since 1960, the college has graduated more than 12,000 Gator Nurses.
As graduates walked across the stage to receive their pins, there was laughter, tears and applause from hundreds of families and friends gathered to take part in the ceremony.
The Summer 2025 Pinning Ceremony was not a celebration of the end of a journey, but rather the beginning of professional lives spent making a difference — one patient at a time.
Dr. Stacia Hays, a representative of the College of Nursing Alumni Council, gave remarks on the history and significance of the nursing pin.
Dr. Nicolle Davis, director of the UF Health Mobile Stroke Treatment Unit and 2019 PhD alumna, delivered the alumni keynote remarks.
D’Asia Hobbs spoke on behalf of the Gainesville Accelerated BSN class, while Hunter Price gave remarks representing the Jacksonville Accelerated BSN class. Stephanie Jewell represented the graduating RN-to-BSN cohort.
The ceremony also included the recognition of students who exemplify the college’s values to Care, Lead and Inspire Boldly, as well as those who exemplify excellence in community service, clinical excellence, peer support and research.
Award for Excellence in Nursing Care
Recognizes graduating students who exemplify outstanding nursing practice and compassion in patient care.
- Emily Spitzberg
- Elise Bauer
- Victoria Rudd
Award for Excellence in Community Service
Honors a graduating student with exceptional commitment to service in the community.
- Gabriella Delgado
Award for Outstanding Clinical Excellence
Recognizes students for exceptional clinical skills, professionalism, and compassionate care.
- Roarke Carroll
- Jordan Brekke
Outstanding Peer Support Award
Celebrates students who have consistently supported and uplifted their peers throughout the program.
- Carly Weisener
- Wiranya Khayankit
Award for Excellence in Nursing Leadership
Recognizes a graduating student who has demonstrated exemplary leadership throughout the program.
- Soha Ramadan
Award for Excellence in Inspiring Others Through Nursing
Honors students who inspire peers, patients, and colleagues through their dedication to nursing excellence.
- D’Asia Hobbs
- David Stanley
Award for Excellence in Research
Recognizes students with outstanding potential in nursing science and research achievement.
- Morgan Emmi
- Kaitlyn McLaughlin
Award for Excellence in Evidence-Based Practice
Honors a student who effectively integrates research, clinical expertise, and patient values to improve outcomes.
- Victoria Rudd
Exemplary BSN Student Award
Recognizes BSN students who exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and compassionate care.
- Arianna Fernandez – Gainesville ABSN
- Sutton Crawford – Jacksonville ABSN
- Stephanie Jewell – RN-BSN
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