CNM School of Nursing Celebrates First Graduating Class from Practical Nursing Certificate Program
CNM’s School of Nursing is excited to announce the graduation of the first cohort of the new Practical Nursing certificate program. A pinning ceremony for the cohort was hosted on Saturday, Aug. 9, a traditional rite of passage for nursing students that symbolizes their transition from student to practitioner.
“This graduation and pinning ceremony symbolized not just CNM’s, but the state of New Mexico’s, commitment to building a pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals,” says Diane Evans-Prior, Dean for the School of Nursing. “The first cohort graduating this year is also particularly special, as CNM celebrates its 60th anniversary and practical nursing was one of the first programs offered by CNM (then know as TVI) in 1966. I am incredibly proud of this group of students and their desire to keeping New Mexicans happy and healthy.”
In just three terms, the graduates learned how to provide safe and quality ambulatory care to patients through technical and hands-on training. Now, they are eligible to take the national licensure exam, and upon passing, can land an entry level licensed practical nursing (LPN) position making up to $29 per hour.
For several of the graduates, this is the just the beginning of their nursing journey.
Summer Lucero plans to continue her education with the ultimate goal of becoming a registered nurse.
“Now that I’ve graduated, I’m preparing to take my National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and then plan to continue to pursue my nursing education at CNM,” she says.
Similarly, Anthony Munoz is grateful for the support he received in the program and has no plans of slowing down on his educational journey.
“The instructors in this program were amazing and always had my best interest in mind,” he says. “My next step is continue in the CNM nursing program to become a registered nurse (RN) and keep working to become a better nurse for my patients.”
Looking ahead, Diane is excited to see the program continue to grow and to provide an accessible pathway for learners to enter the healthcare industry.
“The great thing about the Practical Nursing program is that there are no pre-requisites, so it opens the door for a lot more folks to find a career path that works for them,” she says. “Overall, there is a record high need for practical nurses, and we are excited to help bridge that gap and help students reach their goals, improve their lives, and improve their communities.”
Interested in the Practical Nursing program? Check out the Nursing program page for more information and to apply.