Moorpark College pinned a total of 27 new nurses Thursday, at the annual Candlelight Ceremony.

The ceremony was held at the Performance Arts Center on campus. The auditorium was packed to the brim with instructors, family members, and loved ones waiting to congratulate the new nurses.

One of the many in attendance was Moorpark College Interim President Dr. Bernard Luskin, who opened the ceremony by welcoming everyone.

 “Nursing represents the backbone of the health care industry,” Luskin said. “The Moorpark College Nursing Program is among the best in America.”

 Nursing Program Director Carol Higashida recognized the graduates for their accomplishments. Class Co-Presidents Tiffany Garcia and Victoria Watkins gave the welcoming address. Professors Christina Lee gave recognition for the nurses’ volunteer service. Professors Michele Dieterich and Olga Myshina read of each graduate’s word of appreciation while each graduate was pinned by a significant person in his/her life. The significance of the nursing pin is a symbol of a nurse’s service to others and the pinning process is an induction into the nursing profession.

A candle lighting ceremony, symbolizes the transferring of nursing knowledge from one generation from the next. It is an event that has been held since nursing’s founder Florence Nightingale.

Presided by Professor Dalila Sankaran, the nursing pledge was read by Professor Jamee Maxey. The pledge explains a nursing’s promise to serve with integrity and compassion.

The program was concluded with a formal introduction and welcome of the graduates to the profession of nursing by Director Higashida.

For those interested in learning more about Moorpark College’s nursing program, can register through the college website: www.moorparkcollege.edu.