Halifax Community College recognized its 2025 practical nursing graduates during a pinning ceremony on July 14 at the Dr. Ervin V. Griffin Sr. Centre on the college campus.

Patrena Benton Elliott, president/CEO of HCC, delivered opening remarks, acknowledging the accomplishments of the graduating class. 

Program Director Sarah Harris, MSN, RN, provided an overview of the nursing program and the students' achievements.

Graduate Troya Alston introduced keynote speaker Helen Ford, MSN, RN, a nursing instructor at HCC. 

Ford addressed the graduates with remarks on the responsibilities and impact of the nursing profession. 

Monica Williams, also a graduate, gave a student reflection on the experiences shared throughout the program.

Three graduates were recognized with awards for academic and clinical excellence. Tiara Harris received the Academic Excellence Award for the Day Cohort in recognition of her outstanding academic performance, consistent dedication to her coursework, and leadership in the classroom. Jonika Horton was awarded the Academic Excellence Award for the Evening/Weekend Cohort for maintaining exemplary academic standards while managing the demands of a nontraditional schedule. Rhadejah Davis earned the Patriot Award for Clinical Excellence, an honor given to students who demonstrate outstanding clinical skills, professionalism, and compassionate patient care throughout their clinical rotations.

The ceremony included the presentation of nursing pins, flowers, and symbolic lamps by faculty members Maria Navarro, Tia Alfonso, and Kara Clary. 

Rhonda Kennedy, MSN, RN, led the graduates in the Nursing Pledge. 

Dr. Julie Galvin, dean of academic affairs, gave the closing remarks and presented additional awards.

Graduates of the 2025 Practical Nursing class were:

Troya Alston 

Brittney Baker 

La’Kira Bullard Dashanel 

Burnette Rhadejah Davis

Rayne Eaton 

Tiara Harris 

Jonika Horton 

Courtney Ramsey 

Stacy Richardson

Lashonda Simpson

Tomekia Smith

 La’Toya Tann

Monica Williams