Typically becoming a nursing graduate is tough enough; doing it during a pandemic is a real challenge. 

For 33 individuals, this culmination of hard work and determination paid off with degrees and a traditional pinning ceremony. For some, the ceremony was postponed a year later than expected.

On June 24^th, nurse education program graduates from this year’s Warren Community College class were joined by the 2020 class for a heart-warming ceremony that celebrated their successful journey towards becoming registered nurses.

All the graduate nurse education students received nursing pins in recognition of their completion of the nursing program,  even though many have been employed for quite a while. 

This year’s graduating class included Zachary Barber, Arayna Brack, Carissa Frutchey, Amy Griffith, Lauren Harrison, Macie Mancini, Monica Martin, Nickelle Moore, Elma Musanovic, Richard Roman, Stephanie Simone, Kurt Soergel, Stephanie Stone, Becca Visone, Alyssa Youngermann, and Brittany Zrinski.

Those from 2020 who were pinned this year are: Sara Anello, Jade Baccaro-Nicholls, Emily Bair, Sarah Bradford, Christine Dacruz, Josue De Leon Mora, Tjasa Garib, Casie Gelpke, Christina Kuriakose, Meghan McGuire, Raquel Morgado, Leah Ombati, Angela Perone, Joseph Rimback, Katherine Rodriquez  Reyes, Melissa Stanneck, and Lori Vanator.  

“They all persevered throughout the program during a very challenging time to achieve their goal of completing the nurse education program successfully. We are very proud of each and every one of them for what they have accomplished and wish them all the best as they enter the healthcare profession,”  said Patricia Stypolkowski, MSN-ED, RN, CNE, Executive Director of Nurse Education at WCC.  

The WCC Associate in Science Degree program for nursing professionals was established in September 2005. The nursing program has long been considered one of the best in the State of New Jersey. Nearly 300 students have graduated from the program since its inception. Many currently work in various healthcare  facilities throughout the region and have continued their education to pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in nursing.

For further information about the nursing program, please contact Nursing Director Patricia Stypolkowski at 908-835-2314 or pstypolkowski@warren.edu.