Twelve future nurses graduated from the Adult Practical Nursing program at MOBOCES on Wednesday.

The students completed a rigorous 11-month training program at our Verona campus that included both classroom and clinical work to them prepare for the NCLEX-PN, the national licensing exam for practical nurses.

Caitlyn Holmes gave the Valedictory address, and Salutatorian Justin Glasso led his classmates in reciting the Practical Nurse Pledge.

“We are going to do great things” Holmes said. “All the sleepless nights, stress, tears and anxiety has paid off. We did it. Go do great things.”

Health Occupations Coordinator Kelly Woodcock recognized three students with special awards: Nicole Badolato earned the Outstanding Performance in Geriatric Nursing Award; Danielle Nelson earned the Clinical Excellence Award; and Jamie Rodeo earned the Dedication & Determination Award.

MOBOCES Board President Richard Engelbrecht congratulated students and help present their certificates and pins.

“The job that these students will be able to do – taking care of people – will make everyone’s life better,” Engelbrecht said.