May 6, 2026

R-CCC Celebrates Nursing Graduates at 2026 Pinning Ceremony

                                                                       

AHOSKIE, NC––Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) honored its 2026 Associate Degree Nursing graduates during a pinning ceremony April 30 at Carpenter’s Shop Church, marking their transition into the nursing profession.

Graduates recognized included Reagan Askew, Kahli Baker, Mackenzie Baker, Lindsey Bazemore, Toni Belch, Sharnitta Fennell, Sharon Fleming, Torsha Hicks, Nisachon Jitson, Taylor Legg, Kelli Mendoza, Meredith Mize, Bridgette Morris, Hannah Pippins, Brittney Ray and Meghan Vick.

R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams praised the graduates for completing a demanding program and preparing to enter a profession grounded in compassion, competence and courage. She emphasized that the pinning ceremony represents more than a milestone, calling it “a rite of passage that symbolizes trust, responsibility and a promise to care for others.” 

Williams also acknowledged the role of families and faculty, noting that the graduates’ success reflects strong support systems and dedicated mentorship. 

The keynote address was delivered by Kim White, dean of nursing programs, and Annette Thompson, BSN, RN, a longtime nursing faculty member retiring after more than 40 years of bedside experience. 

White and Thompson focused their remarks on professional responsibility, patient safety and critical thinking, sharing practical guidance for new nurses. They encouraged graduates to remain vigilant in patient care, continuously seeking knowledge and prioritizing compassion.

“Nursing requires your own thinking,” White said, urging graduates to question unclear orders and advocate for patient safety. Thompson emphasized that nurses serve as “the provider’s eyes, the patient’s voice and the supporters of families,” underscoring the responsibility entrusted to the profession. 

Both speakers highlighted the importance of attention to detail and accountability, reminding graduates that even small actions can have significant impacts on patient outcomes. They also stressed the need to stay grounded in compassion, even during challenging moments in the field.

In addition, White encouraged graduates to remain focused as they prepare for the NCLEX licensure exam, emphasizing discipline, accountability and preparation as essential to professional success. 

A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the DAISY Award for clinical excellence and compassionate care. Lindsey Bazemore and Meghan Vick received the honor, presented by Dee-Dee Morris, vice president and chief nursing officer at ECU Health Roanoke-Chowan Hospital. 

The Keeper of the Flame Award, recognizing leadership, compassion and academic excellence among rising students, was awarded to Treneika Futrell. 

The pinning ceremony is a longstanding nursing tradition symbolizing graduates’ readiness to enter the workforce and serve their communities with integrity, skill and compassion.

 

 

Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s Mission

Roanoke-Chowan Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System and located in Hertford County, is a public, two-year institution of higher education offering associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, college and career readiness, and customized business and industry training in a variety of delivery modes promoting public service, transfer, and workforce development for a diverse student body, leading them to contribute to the vitality of an increasingly global community. www.roanokechowan.edu #DiscoverRCCC “Where community and careers connect”

Media Contact: Melanie Temple, Director of Marketing & Recruitment/PIO, metemple7181@roanokechowan.edu, 252-862-1243