RED DEER POLYTECHNIC
RDP Honours Nursing Graduates at Pinning Ceremony

Seventy-four graduating students from the collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program at Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) have been celebrated at an on-campus Pinning Ceremony. This heart-warming event marked a significant milestone in their journey, symbolizing their transition from students to nurses ready to make a positive impact in Alberta's health care system. 

Led by the BScN faculty, the celebration brought together RDP leaders, Nursing faculty, staff, family and friends to commend the academic successes and dedication of the 2024/2025 graduates to the nursing profession.  

Heather Dirks addresses the crowd during the ceremony. 

"The journey to become a nurse is both rewarding and demanding and it takes a supportive network to help nursing students succeed," says Heather Dirks, Dean, School of Health and Wellness at Red Deer Polytechnic. "While we celebrate our nursing graduates, we also recognize the incredible individuals educators, industry partners and loved ones who have helped these students achieve their goals. Their collective dedication and support help to address a critical labour market need in the province." 

The Pinning Ceremony, which was emceed by Erin Lowe and Natalie Ford (RDP Nursing faculty), featured inspiring speeches from RDP leaders and Raya Weimer, a fourth-year BScN pinning candidate. Elected by her peers, Weimer reflected on shared experiences and achievements that defined the cohort's journey.  

Among the most touching moments of the ceremony was the pinning itself. This is when each graduate was presented with a University of Alberta collaborative nursing pin by a chosen mentor, family member or friend. This tradition is rich with symbolism, signifying the transition from student to professional nurse, while including those who have provided unwavering support. This year's ceremony saw particularly meaningful exchanges, including a grandmother, who received a pin more than 60 years ago, bestowing a pin upon her grandchild. Additionally, several children proudly pinned their graduating parents, embodying the deep connections that nursing fosters across generations. 

At the event, the graduating nurses recited the International Council of Nurses' Pledge, reinforcing a commitment to patient care and professional integrity. 

"As nurses, we are privileged to share unforgettable moments with individuals, offering hope, comfort and strength during challenging times," adds Dirks. "I promised my nephew Eli, who we lost to cancer two years ago, that I would use his story to inspire future nurses. For Eli, it wasn't about which nurse started the IV the quickest, but who demonstrated the most compassionate care. While leveraging their nationally-recognized education and training at RDP, I encourage our graduates to wholeheartedly embrace the connections they forge and to serve patients with empathy."