On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Saint Anselm College nursing community gathered in the Abbey Church to honor the 84 graduating members of the nursing class of 2025 at the annual Pinning Ceremony. This cherished tradition celebrates the perseverance, passion, and commitment of the college’s future nurses as they prepare to enter the profession.
The pins were blessed by Abbot Mark Cooper, O.S.B. ’71, HD ’04, in a special moment of reflection and commissioning. Faculty, friends, family, and staff were present to witness this symbolic act, which marks the transition from student to professional nurse.
Anna Gaby, this year’s student speaker and recipient of the Dr. Joyce Clifford Award, delivered a moving and reflective speech about her journey through the nursing program. She shared her initial fears during her junior-year med-surg clinical and how those early uncertainties transformed into confidence, compassion, and a sense of calling. “If we can do small things with great care, those small things can make a world of difference,” she told her classmates, encouraging them to embrace the small, meaningful moments in their future careers.
The ceremony also recognized several students and faculty members for their outstanding achievements. Sara Ducharme received the DAISY Student Award, which honors compassionate and skilled student nurses. Professor Alicia Law was presented with the DAISY Faculty Award for her commitment to mentoring and supporting the next generation of nurses. Lauren Lejano was honored with the Dr. Joanne K. Farley Award, which celebrates a student who exemplifies the values and spirit of Dr. Farley. Anna Gaby, in addition to her speech, was also recognized with the Dr. Joyce Clifford Award for her leadership and academic excellence.
Sela Rathe and Mary Katherine Finneran were recognized for their service as co-chairs of the 2025 Pinning Committee, helping to organize and lead this important event for their class.
As part of the tradition, the nursing students took part in the candle lighting ceremony, symbolically honoring the patients they have cared for and remembering loved ones who are no longer with them. The students and nurses in attendance then recited the Nightingale Pledge, an oath to uphold the highest standards of their profession with integrity and compassion. The ceremony concluded with a celebration Mass, sending forth the college’s newest nurses with prayer and blessing as they prepare for licensure and a lifetime of service.
Watch the full 2025 Nurse Pinning Ceremony here →