Clark State College held pinning ceremonies on May 12 and 13 for the spring 2022 graduating nurses who completed their programs of study.

“I’m incredibly proud of our RN and PN graduates,” said Dr. Rhoda Sommers, dean of health, human and public services at Clark State. “Each one of them has worked so hard to complete the program. They are prepared to have a positive impact on our region during a time when we desperately need healthcare workers.”

Graduate Brandy Tucci was the recipient of the Connie Murphy Award.

Connie Murphy was not one to sit idle and wait for an opportunity to develop. She understood the needs of society and the need for nursing education other than Registered Nursing in this region of Ohio. It was her persistent nature that helped found the Mercy Central School of Practical Nursing, which eventually moved to Clark State with Connie as its director. She also established the Associate Degree RN program, the Medical Laboratory Technology program, and the Emergency Medical Services program. Connie was a leader, a forward thinker, and a tenacious spirit. She loved nursing and was a mentor to all who needed guidance.

The Connie Murphy Award has been presented every year since June 2010.  This award signifies a student who is recognized by their peers as showing true perseverance, compassion, caring for others and a willingness to learn. 

“The student is selected by their peers by a vote,” said Karalen Witt, nursing program instructor at Clark State. “Brandy was selected for this because not only does she represent all these lovely qualities, but she also showed true strength and resilience throughout her journey. She is an inspiration to her peers.”

Nursing Excellence Award recipients included:

Elizabeth Harmer: Traditional RN Program

Alyxandra Bingham: LPN to RN Program

Margarita Fry: Traditional RN Program

Melisa Anderson: Traditional RN Program

The Registered Nursing graduate names and information can be viewed at: https://www.clarkstate.edu/media/o3gdlj13mpvf5fi05ebevfwoxu/rn-pinning-program_spring-2022.pdf

The Practical Nursing graduate names and information can be viewed at: https://www.clarkstate.edu/media/45hbez105pdfti4eyqxl5vv4nu/lpn-pinning-program_spring-2022.pdf

The Registered Nursing program can be completed at Clark State’s Springfield and Beavercreek locations. The Practical Nursing program can be completed at Clark State’s Springfield campus, Beavercreek location, and the Bellefontaine location at Ohio Hi-Point Career Center. Both programs have daytime and evening/weekend enrollment options.