The Beacon of Nursing Excellence: Welcoming Our Newest Students at the Lamp of Learning

Jan 30, 2024

The University of Utah College of Nursing welcomed 59 new baccalaureate students into the nursing profession on Thursday, January 25, 2024, as part of the Lamp of Learning ceremony for the Spring 2024 cohort.

The symbolism and significance behind the ceremony was presented by Dr. Melody Krahulec, assistant dean for Undergraduate Programs at the college. Dr. Krahulec summarized the life of Florence Nightingale, a British nurse and pioneer of modern nursing. During the Crimean War in the 1850’s, Florence greatly improved hospital sanitary conditions and created many patient services. As her work continued through the night, she moved by lamplight caring for one patient after another — earning her the name of “Lady with the Lamp.” Among many notable accomplishments, the work of Florence Nightingale reduced the hospital’s death rate by two-thirds.

59 students pose for a group photo in the hallway of the University of Utah Union Building

“With this ceremony, we acknowledge your hard work to complete all the requirements for acceptance into the college and celebrate your choice to join the nursing profession.”
Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh

Later in the program, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, prelicensure track director at the college, welcomed students and their supporters. “With this ceremony, we acknowledge your hard work to complete all the requirements for acceptance into the college and celebrate your choice to join the nursing profession.”

Students were celebrated for what they aim to accomplish and for who they are as individuals. “You are some of the best and brightest students, selected from a highly qualified group of applicants. The diversity among your cohort will contribute to a rich student experience,” stated Dr. Marla De Jong, dean of the College of Nursing. “You will engage socially and intellectually, and you will be equipped with the perspectives and skillsets that you need to care for diverse patients to advance health equity, to reduce health disparities, and to meet the needs of our changing society.”

The many roles and aspects of nursing were highlighted by Dr. Valerie Flattes, associate dean for Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion at the College. 2024 marks over 50 years as a nurse and 25 years at the University of Utah for Dr. Flattes. Of all the experiences through the years from working in a psychiatric nursing home to a clinical supervisor, "the role I really loved best was being a preceptor for students,” she said. “And that’s where I found my calling — in teaching.”

“You are some of the best and brightest students, selected from a highly qualified group of applicants. The diversity among your cohort will contribute to a rich student experience,”
Dean Marla De Jong

Before the students took the Nursing Oath and walked across the stage, they were addressed by Allysa Pham, a graduate of the BS program, who started her career as a medical surgical nurse at the Huntsman Cancer Hospital. Alyssa, who is furthering her education in the Master of Science in Nursing program, shared her insights regarding the rewards of nursing and the student experience.

“As Utah’s flagship institution, we are the only school in the state associated with an academic healthcare system and the only nursing school in the state to offer baccalaureate, masters, Doctor of Nursing practice and PhD degrees,” said Dean De Jong. “We are uniquely positioned to combine excellence in teaching, research, patient care, and community engagement, providing you with a high-quality, high-value education.”

Congratulations, 2024 Spring Semester Cohort! Stepping into the College of Nursing is a remarkable achievement. We recognize your potential to positively influence countless lives and eagerly await the impact you'll make throughout your nursing career.