MM
Maria Mowers
  • nursing
  • Class of 2016
  • Pennsville, N.J.

MARIA MOWERS of Pennsville, NJ Participated in a Traditional Nightingale Ceremony at Widener University

2016 May 25

MARIA MOWERS of Pennsville, NJ graduated from Widener University's School of Nursing on May 21. On Thursday, May 19 students participated in a Nightingale Ceremony, a traditional pinning ceremony for graduating nursing students, reflecting the values and traditions of the profession.

While holding a lit candle to honor the late Florence Nightingale, who made late night, solitary rounds in a Crimean military hospital to care for wounded soldiers by candlelight, all students will recite the Nightingale Pledge, written by the International Council of Nurses, and vow to uphold the integrity of the profession. The burning candle flame symbolizes the human spirit that is at the core of healing both now and back then.

A registered nurse for over 30 years, Phil Landis, a clinical nurse education specialist at Pennsylvania Hospital, reminded students they are so much more than "just" a nurse during his keynote address. "The nursing profession is the most respected."

This year, also marked the first Nightingale Ceremony for Widener University President Julie E. Wollman, who recounted personal experiences where the nursing staff provided the greatest comfort. "Your work is the most important experience," she said "You not only save lives, but you also change them - one patient, or family member at a time."

Widener University is a private, metropolitan university that connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention, leadership development and experiential learning are key components of the Widener experience. A comprehensive doctorate-granting university, Widener comprises eight schools and colleges that offer liberal arts and sciences, professional and pre-professional curricula leading to associate, baccalaureate, master's and doctoral degrees. The university's campuses in Chester, Exton and Harrisburg, Pa., and Wilmington, Del., are proud to be tobacco-free. Visit the university website, www.widener.edu.