Blinn Vocational Nursing Program honors six graduates at pinning ceremony

Students complete rigorous blended online program

August 11, 2023

Six graduates of the Blinn College District Vocational Nursing Program recently were honored at a pinning ceremony at the Dr. W.W. O’Donnell Performing Arts Center on the Brenham Campus.

The students completed Blinn’s blended online program, which allowed them to complete their theory coursework online while attending face-to-face clinical and laboratory experiences. Designed for individuals balancing a job and their nursing studies, Blinn’s online-blended program was launched in 2018 and was the first of its kind in the state.

Students pinned were Valeria Arriaga, Bryan; Prisilla Barreto, Bryan; Hannah Blackwell, Hudson; Dora Juarez, Columbus; Anna Morehead, Milano; and Lois Wampler, Katy.

“The way that they learned and went through the program is different,” Marburger said. “They have to listen to lectures on their own time and then do labs and clinicals face-to-face. They worked super hard to be able to be here today. We’re so proud of them.”

Juarez and Blackwell said the program is rewarding and prepared them for careers in the nursing field.

“It’s very hard, very intense, but very rewarding,” said Juarez, who plans to work toward an associate degree. “I learned a lot along the way and I’m excited to begin my nursing career. I learned a lot of new skills that are going to take me places.”

“It was everything I expected,” said Blackwell, who plans to continue her education while working in the orthopedics department at St. David’s Hospital in Austin. “I really appreciate all the instructors. They were always willing to help and were very communicative with us. They’re amazing.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 annual median pay for a vocational nurse was $48,070, and employment is expected to increase 6% between 2021 and 2031, creating 41,300 new jobs nationwide.

Program graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) and the Nursing Jurisprudence Examination and are considered licensed vocational nurses after passing both exams.

Applications for spring 2024 admission into the traditional program are open through Oct. 6. For more information, visit www.blinn.edu/vocational-nursing.