Graduates of Southeast
Community College’s Licensed Practical Nursing program got a surprise this week
as faculty members drove to their homes with gifts and congratulations for
their recent accomplishments.
“How unbelievably lucky I am
to be part of this class and to have had such amazing teachers,” said Kristine
Sundquist, one of the surprised graduates. “Thank you so much, you are the
best!”
Program Director Ashley Fritz
said she and her staff wanted to show how proud they were of their students for
overcoming so many obstacles during the online learning phase. The faculty
members made a map and visited all the houses within five hours. They drove in
separate cars and made contactless deliveries while they waited in the
driveways. Reactions ranged from shock to joy to appreciation.
“We wanted to do something
special for our students,” Fritz said. “They are about to embark on their
careers during a special time of need for our community. It was important for
us to show our support and appreciation. We are very proud of them!”
“As faculty, we wanted the
students to know we appreciate them, believe in them and wish them the best,”
said Diane Anderson, nursing faculty member.
“I wanted to see the students again,
I missed them!” said Amy Hensley, another faculty member. “I knew it would take
some coordination and a full day of driving, but the reward was worth the
investment.”
Hensley and Fritz said the switch to
online learning posed different challenges for the students and faculty members
since everyone had unique challenges at home. They were able to offer Zoom
meeting and exams outside of normal hours to accommodate the students. Faculty wanted
to show the students how proud they were during this challenging time.
“The faculty are so
proud of our students for stepping up and doing their best knowing their
community needed them,” Fritz said. “When it would get difficult, we would
remind ourselves the impact we will have on the community by getting our
students prepared to provide care to people in need.”
“None of this has been
easy, so many people have been affected by Covid-19 either personally or
someone they know,” added Anderson. “As an instructor and most importantly a
nurse, we have to remain calm to provide the care that is needed, even if it is
virtually.”
Fritz said a virtual
pinning ceremony also was held, which is symbolic of welcoming new nurses into
the nursing profession.