Markeshia Ricks Photo
Many of them juggled responsibilities at home, at work and at school for more than a year to get here. Then, in just over an hour, they went from student to health care professional.
“Here” was a pinning ceremony for 59 students of Gateway Community College Allied Health Programs. Their official graduation isn’t until Thursday, but on Tuesday evening, with family and friends packing out the college’s community room, they received a small pin to signify their transition.
The ceremony dates back to 1855 and nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale. It has become an established rite of passage for students entering the health care field.
The men and women of the class of 2015 have completed coursework toward associate degrees and certificates in diagnostic medical sonography; exercise and wellness; nuclear medicine technology nutrition and dietetics; radiation therapy; and radiography.
They walked with pride and heads up to receive their pins.
Some just let loose with big smiles.
They shook hands and thanked the people who’d played a significant role in their accomplishment …
They received strong hugs from people like Cara Case, director of Gateway’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography program, who wished them challenges in their professional and personal lives, so they’ll always know what it’s like to persevere. She also encouraged them to give back to their profession.
Todd Degree, director of the Exercise Science and Wellness, and Fitness Specialist program, told the crowd that was so big everyone couldn’t sit down, that not only should the former students be proud, but so should their friends and family.
“You all had to overcome something to get here tonight,” he said.
And the new professionals got to a chance to see what it was like to be on the other side of a long career, and still be committed to the profession.
Julie Perego-Mangini (pictured) was recognized for her 20-plus years of service as a professor and academic coordinator for the radiography program. Her son, Lou Mangini, who is an aide to U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, popped in to surprise her. “You,” she said, shaking her finger at him. “I told him to shave that mustache.”
“Gateway has been great,” she said. “I love what I do. Retirement is coming soon, but I’ll always be around. I love it and I’m going to do it part time if I have to.”
