Ogeechee Technical College held its annual Associate of Science in Nursing Pinning Ceremony on May 13, recognizing the second group of graduates from its new nursing program.
The event took place in the Joseph E. Kennedy Auditorium and included remarks from President Lori Durden, an invocation by graduate Erika Douberly, and a keynote speech by graduate Daelyn Pearson. The college launched its Associate of Science in Nursing program in January 2024 with support from a $1.5 million endowment provided by the George W. Strickland Jr. Foundation, which is the largest donation in OTC’s history.
Ariel Cagle, Program Director for ASN at Ogeechee Technical College, said: “Our graduates have balanced rigorous academic and clinical expectations while answering a calling to serve others during some of life’s most vulnerable moments. We are proud to send these future nurses into our communities equipped with the knowledge, professionalism, and heart needed to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.”
Courtney Reed, ASN Instructor at OTC, also addressed attendees: “The pinning ceremony is always one of my favorite nights of the year. It is such a special opportunity to witness the culmination of all the hard work, dedication, and perseverance our students have shown throughout the program and to celebrate their incredible achievements. I am so proud of this cohort and cannot wait to see the compassionate and exceptional nurses they will become.”
The ceremony concluded with candle lighting by members of the 2026 Nursing Class, recitation of the Nightingale Pledge led by Crystal Rice, and closing remarks from Precious Carswell. The pinning marks students’ transition from student nurse to graduate nurse; however, graduates must still pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) before becoming licensed registered nurses.
Ogeechee Technical College promotes economic and social prosperity by equipping students with skills that bolster regional workforce needs through academic programs like nursing; it serves more than 3,200 credit students as well as participants in adult education programs across campuses including Statesboro along with learning centers in Evans and Screven counties—a campus that also features robotics training—according to the official website.
