Congratulations, Class of 2015!

One of the largest crowds in University of Michigan School of Nursing (UMSN) history attended the School’s annual commencement ceremony at Hill Auditorium on May 2, 2015. It began with the traditional student processional to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance,” followed by the crowd-favorite Michigan Scottish Pipes and Drums, and faculty processional. Brief remarks were given by Dean Kathleen Potempa, PhD, RN, FAAN,  Associate Professor Milisa Manojlovich, PhD, RN, CCRN, and Alumni Society President Barbara Medvec, RN, BSN, MSN, MSA. The remarks shared congratulations, acknowledged the support of family and friends, and challenged the graduates to be active leaders in their careers. With a smile, Dean Potempa also encouraged the baccalaureate and master’s to return for another degree.

Student Speakers

• Michelle Whalen (doctoral) “We need to get involved. Period.  We cannot, as a profession, continue to allow other healthcare entities to dictate our nursing practice. Nursing, although the most trusted profession, remains significantly underrepresented within policy discussions that directly impact the care we provide.  We not only need to claim our seat at the table, we need to work harder to better understand the policies that are creating the dining room the table is in.”
• Tracy Picmann (master’s) “This fall I was fortunate enough to travel to Thailand with U of M for a global clinical immersion…As we shared our adventures through social media, I received numerous messages from friends in other graduate nursing programs. They all wanted to know why their school did not offer such an amazing opportunity.  They obviously did not have the Michigan difference!”
• Katherine Seraydarian (BSN) “It was a great privilege to complete almost every clinical rotation at the University of Michigan Health System, where I learned from some of the best doctors, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, nurse aides, clerks and most importantly nurses.  It was another great privilege to have amazing professors and clinical instructors who are experts in their specialty areas. They have not only helped me improve my clinical skills but have helped me discover my passion through their dedication to the profession and enthusiasm in the classroom.”

Teacher of the Year

The recipient of UMSN’s 2015 Mae Edna Doyle Teacher of the Year award is Jesus (Jessie) M. Casida, PhD, RN, APN-C, CCRN-CSC. The award recognizes excellence in evidence-based teaching, ability to stimulate and challenge students’ intellectual capacity, and impact on students’ professional lives. It honors the memory of Mae Edna Doyle, a distinguished graduate from the Class of 1938.

Student Awards

Hazel M. Avery Maternity Nursing Award

Photos

Additional photos from the ceremony are available on UMSN's Facebook page. Please note that you do not have to have a Facebook account to view photos.