Lakeview College of Nursing recently held a White Coat Ceremony to recognize students who achieved the transition into clinical practice within their bachelor’s degree nursing program.
Area students honored at the event include Arian Dodge of Fithian, Kiah Jensen, Lezlea Lowe, Tayelor Lowe, and Bailey McMasters all of Danville, Kacee Sands of Oakwood, and Tinlee Shepherd of Westville.
During the ceremony, the College’s faculty, who were also wearing white coats, cloaked the students with their new garments. The white color of the coat represents compassionate caring, and the student’s receipt of the jacket demonstrates a commitment to compassionate, collaborative, and scientifically excellent care, according to Rita Wallace, who is an associate professor at LCN. Wallace spoke at the event about the history of the white coat and its symbolism.
Travis Whisman, who is an instructor at LCN, was the keynote speaker. Whisman spoke about the journey of nursing education and the important role clinical experiences will play on the student’s path to becoming a nurse. He said, “Clinical is the place where you will clarify the type of nurse you want to be and confirm the type of nurse you don’t want to be.”
Lakeview’s Student Government Association President, Amanda Johnson, led the Nightingale Nursing Pledge and the White Coat Oath. Students recited verses that call for practicing the profession to the best of their ability and to promote, advocate, and strive to protect the patient’s health, safety, and rights.
Lakeview College of Nursing offers a bachelor of science in nursing degree. It is a single-purpose, private institution that has specialized in nursing education in the Danville, IL, area since 1894.