San Jacinto, CA – Forty-six Mt. San Jacinto College students earning their Associate of Science in Nursing degrees were recognized on Monday, May 20, during a nurse pinning ceremony in a gymnasium full of family and friends on the San Jacinto Campus.

“We are very proud of the MSJC team and everyone’s efforts in preparing students for the workforce demands,” said Dr. Peter Zografos, MSJC Nursing Program Director.

Nursing students participate in an occupational internship with local agencies and gain hands-on experience. All graduates who have participated in the occupational internship program, in past years, have secured employment through their internship. Getting a job in the field of study is one of the reasons MSJC’s Allied Health & Nursing Program earned a Silver Star award from the California Community College Chancellor’s Office.

The demand for nurses continues to grow in our area and MSJC students are sought out by local agencies, Zografos said.

Joannie McDonald, 25, said the nursing program has been very demanding but extremely worth it. She is confident she is entering an economically stable career and will be able to provide a bright future for her 2-year-old daughter.

“I am proud of the person these past two years have shaped me to be, and I am humbled to be entering into such a rewarding career where I will be able to care for the lives of many,” McDonald said.

Speakers during the ceremony were Superintendent/President Dr. Roger Schultz, Executive Dean Joyce Johnson, Interim Associate Dean of Nursing Dr. Crystal Nasio, and Dr. Zografos.

The 46 nursing students are among 1,707 graduates earning a record-breaking 3,314 degrees and certificates from Mt. San Jacinto College this academic year. A commencement ceremony to celebrate their achievements will be held Thursday at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula.

Photo: Forty-six Mt. San Jacinto College students earning their Associate of Science in Nursing degrees were recognized on Monday, May 20, during a nurse pinning ceremony on the San Jacinto Campus. Credit: Photo Courtesy of Mt. San Jacinto College