ELLISVILLE –Two Jones College graduates from the practical nurse program defied the odds and received their diplomas this week. For Courtney Catchings of Jackson, it was her fifth attempt to successfully complete the program.
“Every time I started again, people told me to just give up,” said the 27-year old Catchings. “This time, I had a friend who helped me study for tests and was interested in my success, encouraging me the entire year through the intense program. I also didn’t want to give up my passion for nursing.”
Also defying the odds was Delorse Kirkland of Petal who decided to launch a new and completely different career at age 60. She said she started in nursing school 30 years ago, but “life” happened.
“The whole time in nursing school I struggled,” said Kirkland. “I had a successful career in sales and four kids. I should be retired but this is what God called me to do. It is never too late to start over and make a difference in life.”
Both ladies held on to scriptures like Jeremiah 29:11 and the quote by Winston Churchill, “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts,” for inspiration to persevere. Like most practical nursing graduates, Catchings and Kirkland said they have plans to continue their nursing education, with plans to be able to help those most in need.
“I want to work in a nursing home or with underprivileged people who need help the most,” said Kirkland.
Jones College President, Dr. Jesse Smith shared his admiration with the 38, new, practical nursing graduates for having a “nurses’ heart” and diligently learning the skills to help others.
“There’s nothing more noble than what they are doing, helping others. That’s a gift they are prepared to handle, skillfully,” said Smith. “If this program was easy, we’d all be able to do it. It requires complete dedication, not only by the student but also by the student’s family.”
Additionally, the Jones College practical nursing faculty honored the graduates who stood out in the class exhibiting their special qualities. Seminary’s Chertricia Alvarez earned the highest overall average with superior academic performance. The Rising Star Award was given to the student who showed continuous dedication and exceptional growth in the classroom and in the clinical setting. Faculty picked Jhonna Abuyabor of Ellisville for her positive attitude and perseverance which enriched her nursing knowledge and professionalism. The Florence Nightingale Award was awarded to Mayuri Patel of Hattiesburg for encompassing the qualities of professionalism, integrity, selflessness towards humanity and having a true heart and caring spirit like the founder of nursing, Florence Nightingale.
For more information about the Jones College Practical Nursing program email the program director, Teresa McDonald at teresa.mcdonald@jcjc.edu.
