Students from the Annie Ruth Kelley Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at Stanly Community College (SCC) were honored at their annual pinning ceremony on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at Providence Church of God in Locust. 

Twenty-two graduating nurses received their pins and have accepted positions with their new credentials.

SCC’s nursing program is named in honor of Mrs. Annie Ruth Kelley, the first chairperson of the College Board of Trustees and the first woman to chair a community college board in North Carolina. Mrs. Kelley served with distinction for 28 years as a college trustee.

Dr. John Enamait, Stanly Community College President, welcomed the students, family, and friends to the pinning ceremony, and stated, “This time-honored tradition celebrates the hard work, dedication and commitment of these exceptional individuals who have completed their nursing education and are now ready to embark on a new journey as nurses. While tonight is intended to recognize each student’s accomplishment, it would not be possible without the outstanding Nursing faculty at Stanly Community College. These dedicated professionals epitomize the caring and student-centered philosophy that goes into a nursing program that is second to none. While SCC’s nursing program is certainly difficult, the dedication of our faculty and staff has led to SCC students achieving some of the highest licensure rates in the United States.”

Chassity Washburn, SCC’s Director of Nursing, said, “I was overcome with pride watching tonight’s slideshow and looking back at how much these students have grown from their first day. Pride continued as I was reminded of their community engagement activities and interactions with faculty and clinical site staff. These future nurses represent the tenets of the College’s strategic plan, which includes student, employee and community success. I hope they will remain just as well-rounded throughout their nursing career and never forget where it began. SCC is proud of your success!”

The 2023 Annie Ruth Kelley ADN graduates include:

General Cohort:  Ryan Barbee, Arden Mullis, Kaitlyn Clark, Serena Haney, Kimberly Clemons, Ashley Russell, Kinley Morgan, Corey Smith, Taylor Morris and Caitlyn Starnes

LPN to RN:  Abbey Alexson, Marlee Mercer, Stephanie Cooley, Megan Morris, Tabitha Davis, Marcie Richardson, Tanika Edge, Sasha Smith, Brittanie Howell, Chassidy Starnes, Josh Laton and Tammy Wilmoth.

Visit the College’s YouTube channel to watch the complete Nurse Pinning Ceremony.