BLINN HONORS VOCATIONAL NURSING GRADUATES WITH PINNING CEREMONY

  

Eight graduates of the Blinn College District Vocational Nursing Program were recognized recently at a pinning ceremony on the Brenham Campus.

Graduates were Hope Avery, Boerne; Kyla Barney, Iola; Devani Denson, Beaumont; Katherine Hillier, Bellville; Amare Moland, Denver, Colo.; Reagan Ondrasek, Franklin; Hannah Perez, New Braunfels; and Shawnta Richardson, Navasota.

All eight students completed the program’s blended track, which combines online theory coursework with in-person clinical training and labs. Designed for working students balancing a job with their nursing studies, the program was launched in 2018 as the first of its kind in the state. Clinical rotations are held at hospitals and other healthcare facilities throughout the area.

“It was great being able to work at the same time,” said Barney, who is employed with Baylor Scott & White. “The program prepares us really well for the exams, and so many people in hospitals comment on how well-prepared Blinn nursing students are compared to others. The instructors are amazing. They gave us study techniques, spent time with us individually, and truly want to see us succeed.”

Perez, who works as a certified medical assistant at St. Joseph Medical Center, said her experience in the program was amazing.

“It’s been a whirlwind, and I can’t believe it’s been a year,” she said. “We received a lot of hands-on experience, and I spoke to providers who specifically seek out Blinn LVN students because of the quality of training. The instructors are always willing to listen, and they’ll pull you aside if they see you struggling.”

In addition to the blended track, Blinn launched a second start date in January, offering an additional start date that provided more opportunities for students. The program continues to offer traditional and blended cohorts in the fall.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2024 annual median pay for a vocational nurse was $62,340.

Program graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) and the Nursing Jurisprudence Examination and are considered licensed vocational nurses after passing both exams. Over the last three years, almost 98% of program graduates have found jobs in the profession.

For more information, visit www.blinn.edu/vocational-nursing.

(Story courtesy Blinn Information)