MTC graduates nurses & fire fighters in simultaneous ceremonies

(Bradenton, FL—November 17, 2016)   Graduates from the fire fighter and practical nursing programs at Manatee Technical College were led in a joint processional by bagpipers.  The MTC programs held simultaneous ceremonies on November 17, 2016.

Throwing in a bit of humor, Mosley said, “I am standing here today feeling tachycardic, tachypneic, diaphoretic and slightly syncopal.  Fortunately I am surrounded by nursing graduates who not only know what I’m talking about but also more importantly know what to do if I hit the floor!”

The graduates, donning white caps and gowns, came to the stage one by one to express their gratitude to the people in their lives who had supported them.  Spouses, children, friends, parents and grandparents had the honor of presenting each graduate with a nursing pin.

Graduates Danielle Butler led the Pledge of Allegiance and Charlie Cannon led the Nursing Pledge.  Health programs coordinator Joan Barrese gave the welcome.  Nursing instructor Dr. Bonnie Harvey made closing remarks.  She was joined by faculty members Angeline Komarow and Kathleen Matthews in the pinning ceremony.

The graduates will become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) upon successfully passing the national licensing exam.  The MTC pass rate on the national LPN exam is 93%.  The nursing program’s job placement rate is 98%.

For the first time ever, over half the class had perfect attendance.  Those receiving the award were Garrett Edwards, Robert Hinton, Kyle Lamson, Zachary Mankes, Nicholas Marquette, Ryan McCree, David Montelongo, Garrett Mumford, Goivannie Rivera, Tyler Robinson, Andrew Stange, and Richard Traugott.

Also for the first time ever, 100% of the graduates have already passed the practical portion of their state fire fighter certification exams.  Completion of the Fire Fighter program and passage of the state certification examination are statutory requirements to be employed as a Fire Fighter in Florida.

Lead fire instructor Chief Bill Kebler gave an emotional speech about how incredible this class was.  He and co-instructor Chief Steve Trompke presented the awards, and Fire Academy coordinator Chief Henry Sheffield presented the graduates.  Board member John Colon also addressed the class.

Executive director of Adult, Career and Technical Education Doug Wagner, MTC director Dr. Valerie Viands and assistant director Jeanette Eddy attended both ceremonies.