Students in the John Carroll University Department of Nursing celebrated an important Jesuit tradition, the Blessing of the Hands Ceremony, on Aug. 19. The 44 sophomores gathered to commemorate their transition into clinical practice and honor the important role that nurses play in people’s lives.
“Facilitated by Father Fitzpatrick, the junior and senior students, the director of nursing and the nursing faculty all gathered around the new students to welcome them, provide encouragement and bless them as they embark on the next phase of their nursing journey,” said Dawn Boettcher, JCU Director of Nursing, who holds a doctorate in X. Traditionally, the ceremony involves an opening prayer, a commitment by members to serve Jesus through nursing and a symbolic anointment of the person’s hands. Finally, it is followed by a small closing prayer and blessing.
Bryanna LeRoy ’28 spoke to The Carroll News about her positive experience at the Blessing of the Hands Ceremony. “It was a really cool bonding experience for everyone. The upperclassmen were there and watched our ceremony and it was just cool to see all the support we had coming into the program. It felt like our first step into the nursing program and kick-started the journey for the next three years.”
Dean of the College of Health, Melissa Cole, who holds a doctorate in said “This academic year, we experienced a 22% increase in enrollment. We’ve seen strong growth in our student-led JCU EMS crew, now with more than 20 volunteers serving the campus community. Our graduate counseling program also continues to be the largest program in the graduate school. We’re proud of this momentum and grateful for the opportunity to support students preparing for meaningful futures in health and wellness.”
JCU is proud to have such amazing students and faculty who are committed to helping, healing, and leading our community in health-related fields. With the sense of community the Nursing Program has fostered these past two years, the College of Health is excited about its continued growth and expansion.
