Family and friends from as far away as California filled Park United Methodist Church in Cassadaga to celebrate the 13 graduates.

Cassadaga Job Corps Career Technical Training Manager Vicki Yonkers opened the ceremony before introducing speakers Janeil Rey, Ph.D., E2CCB Director of Workforce Development, and Kathy Taydus, DNP, RN, Jamestown Community College Director of Nursing Education.

“You are now in charge of your destiny, of your new career and your success. Your greatest skill, your greatest gift that you alone can give, is your presence,” Dr. Taydus said. “When you make time and take the time to spend moments and minutes with your patients you instill calm where there is anxiety, caring where there is fear, concern where there may be misunderstanding and compassion as only a nurse knows. You will establish that therapeutic relationship that could make all the difference for them to heal or even to pass away.”

The practical nursing program is a demanding 12-monthlong program that requires time, attention and perseverance. A mantra used by students throughout the year was a 10 two-letter word saying: if it is to be it is up to me.

Submitted Photos Thirteen students recently celebrated the successful completion from the E2CCB Cassadaga Job Corps School of Practical Nursing. Family and friends from as far away as California filled Park United Methodist Church.

“I look back on my own journey and working with these wonderful people today and think to myself, ‘wow, if you believe in those 10 two-letter words: if it is to be it is up to me’ you can accomplish great things,” Yonkers said. “Next step, the NCLEX exam.”

Practical Nursing graduates will now study in preparation for the NCLEX exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. For class valedictorian Shanice Creary, reaching her next milestone will require the same level of support received during the program.

“The endless support we have received is the main reason we’re here before you today. It is with great joy I say congratulations to my classmates. We have all completed a major milestone in our nursing journey and we should recognize its significance,” she said. “Each of us have had their own unique experience accomplished during good times and bad times, times of laughter and joy, and last-minute studies, sometimes. But through all of that I’m thankful we were able to get to know each other and become a family.”

Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES is opening a new School of Practical Nursing at the Health Careers Academy at the LoGuidice Educational Center in Fredonia in August. For upcoming Accuplacer Test dates or information on classes, please contact Health Care Services Specialist Susan Sosinski at 716-805-3162.