Forty-six nursing graduates donned their white uniforms this past week at two separate ceremonies in Brandon and Winnipeg.

The graduation in Brandon marked the end of the two-year Practical Nursing program for 24 students.
Yesterday in Winnipeg, another 22 other nursing graduates crossed the stage. Both groups began their
studies in January 2016.

“With so many starting their studies less than two weeks ago, it’s a wonderful complement to be
celebrating the completion of a program for these graduates as they begin another chapter in their lives,”
said Assiniboine president Mark Frison. “They will have challenging and rewarding careers helping others
as they fill vital roles with communities across the province.”

Tameka Cross, the valedictorian at the Brandon ceremony, remarked on why she opted for a career in
health care and chose to study at Assiniboine.
“I chose nursing because I like the idea of healing,” said Cross. “Healing, I find, is not just physical – it’s
emotional, it's spiritual. That is a big part of who I am. I'd like to connect and share that with as many
clients, patients, and residents as I can.”

Cross recently moved back to Winnipeg following her studies on campus in Brandon. She’ll write her
licensing exam in the coming weeks and hopes to secure a job as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) soon
after passing.

Graduate LPNs secure careers in hospitals, personal care homes, medical clinics, private agencies and the
community. With some advanced preparation, some entrepreneurial LPNs are even choosing to start their
own businesses.

 

Markus Rogalsky and Emma Semchyshyn