Wheaton News

First class of nursing students recognized at inaugural ceremony

Wheaton College’s nursing program made history on October 4, 2024, when its first class of students received their white coats at a campus ceremony.

The events signifies the transition from skill lab learning to clinical practice for the 36 students enrolled in the bachelor of science in nursing program and symbolizes the “commitment to compassionate care, professionalism and ethical responsibility of a nurse,” said Colette Dieujuste, dean of nursing and associate professor.

At the conclusion of the fall semester, students will learn the location of their first placements in local hospitals for their clinical rotations, starting in the spring 2025 semester. There, they will gain hands-on experience, helping to care for patients. 

“Today you will don your white coat, a symbol of trust, respect and the immense responsibility you are about to undertake,” said Dieujuste.

Lisa Salameh, vice president and chief nursing officer of Sturdy Health, delivered the keynote address. “Strive not to just be a good nurse, but be a great nurse, constantly raising the bars for yourselves and those around you,” she said. “What truly sets nursing apart is compassion … it is your role to provide more than just physical care. You must be a source of emotional support and guidance.”

The students were presented by Cyndi Sullivan, professor of the practice of nursing. After receiving their white coats from Dieujuste, Professor of the Practice of Nursing Marianne Williams led the students in collectively reciting the Wheaton Nurses Pledge.

At the ceremony, Vienna Anosike ’27 was honored as the first recipient of the Sturdy Health Nursing Scholarship Award, a renewable $5,000 scholarship given to a high-achieving sophomore student with demonstrated financial need.

Justine Zillken, Sturdy Health vice president and chief strategy officer, presented the award, which includes paid summer employment, internship support and full-time employment after graduation.

Described as a self-confident and remarkably hard worker by one of her professors, Anosike participates in several student organizations, including the African Students Association, the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Students United to Serve and the Black Students Association.

“Vienna is a testament to the strength of the program, and I believe that she will become the type of smart, hardworking healthcare provider that all patients hope to have on their team,” wrote Katherine Zink, professor of the practice of biology, in a recommendation. Anosike will complete a senior capstone at Sturdy Health in her specialty of choice. She intends to pursue a master’s degree in nursing, specializing in OB/GYN, focusing on women’s health and maternal care.

Members of the nursing class are enjoying their Wheaton experience so far. “I’m having a really good experience,” said Mia Donahue ’27. “I get help when I need it from a great support system.”

Ana Butrimas ’27 agreed, “Wheaton just felt right to me when I visited the campus and sat in on a nursing class. I also play a sport (cross country) here and I felt like they would be supportive of that balance. I’m very happy with Wheaton. The staff is very supportive, I feel connected to all my classmates and I like knowing everyone around me.”

Tenzin Wangchuk ’27 shared, “I love it here, the campus is great and being a smaller school makes it easier to connect with my fellow students.” He also recognized the significance of the moment. “This event shows us that we are officially committing to becoming nurses.” 

Indeed, three dozen Wheaton students are one step closer to making that dream a reality.