Strengthening Local Healthcare: Bibb Medical Center and Shelton State Celebrate Nursing Program Graduates
By Savannah Logan
A highlight of a successful partnership with Bibb Medical Center, Shelton State Community College’s Bibb Campus recently celebrated the achievements of its Practical Nursing Program students with two significant events. On August 6, 2024, the Nurse Pinning Ceremony took place at Shelton State Community College, where the fourteen graduates were honored for their dedication and hard work over the past year. The following day, August 7, 2024, the graduates participated in the official Graduation Ceremony, also held at Shelton State Community College.
The fourteen students who completed the Practical Nursing Program dedicated a year to intensive study, beginning in August 2023 and concluding in August 2024. During this time, they not only attended classes but also completed clinical rotations at Bibb Medical Center Hospital and Nursing Home, gaining hands-on experience in their field.
The program was led by two distinguished instructors, Kandace Shoults, CRNP, and Fradonna Hall, MSN, RN, who guided the students through the rigorous curriculum. Their leadership helped ensure that the graduates were well-prepared for their future careers.
Post-graduation, six of the graduates were awarded scholarships from Bibb Medical Center (BMC) and have committed to working there for a minimum of two years. In addition, all the graduates received full-time job offers at various healthcare facilities throughout West Alabama. The next step for these newly minted Practical Nurses is to take the NCLEX-PN exam, which will officially certify them as Licensed Practical Nurses.
The names of the graduates are as follows: Kendi Bell, Tianna Brubeck, Amber Dixon, Carson Gibbs, Takyla Harris, Kendra Hoskins, Shania Lewis, Bria Maddox, Jakeria McRand, Kamolyut Mengumpun, Adelina Navarrete-Aguilar, Angel Riley, Emily Shattuck, and Nadia Smith.
During the ceremonies, several graduates were recognized with special awards for their outstanding achievements. Emily Shattuck received the Excellence in Nursing Practice award, Kendra Hoskins was honored with the Outstanding PN Nurse Award, and Kamolyut Mengumpun was given the Spirit of Nursing Award.
These ceremonies marked the culmination of a year of hard work and dedication for the graduates, and they are now prepared to take the next step in their nursing careers.
The partnership between Bibb Medical Center and Shelton State Community College has proven to be a significant asset to both institutions and the local community. This partnership not only ensured that students were well-prepared for their future roles as nurses but also helped address the local healthcare needs by retaining skilled graduates in the area. By offering scholarships and employment opportunities, Bibb Medical Center has reinforced its commitment to supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals and strengthening the quality of care available in West Alabama.
