(Red Deer Polytechnic/ supplied)

By rdnewsNOW staff

74 students

RDP honours graduating nurses at pinning ceremony

Apr 30, 2025 | 2:25 PM

Red Deer Polytechnic held a pinning ceremony for 74 graduating students from the bachelor of science in nursing program.

The on-campus ceremony that took place on April 14, marks the transition from students to nurses who are prepared to make an impact on the province’s healthcare system.

The ceremony brought together RDP leaders, nursing faculty, staff, family and friends to honour the graduates.

“The journey to become a nurse is both rewarding and demanding and it takes a supportive network to help nursing students succeed,” said Heather Dirks, Dean, School of Health and Wellness at Red Deer Polytechnic, in a media release. “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.”

(Red Deer Polytechnic/ supplied)

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The ceremony was emceed by Erin Lowe and Natalie Ford who are both a part of the RDP Nursing faculty. There were also speeches from RDP leaders and Raya Weimer, a fourth-year BScN pinning candidate.

Each graduate was presented with a University of Alberta collaborative nursing pin by a chosen mentor, family member, or friend. This is a longstanding tradition where they receive the pin from someone who’s provided unwavering support.

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,” Dirks added. “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.”

Red Deer Polytechnic is pleased to also host a Pinning Ceremony for the institution’s Practical Nurse graduating students on Thursday, May 15, from 1 to 3 p.m.