FORT PIERCE — Indian River State College (IRSC) proudly celebrated the achievements of 151 nursing program graduates during its Spring Nursing Commencement at the Westside Center in Fort Pierce. The event featured the traditional pinning ceremony, a symbolic ceremony welcoming new nursing graduates into the profession. Dr. Rayna Letourneau, PhD, RN, Executive Director of the Florida Center for Nursing, delivered an inspiring commencement address to the graduates.

“Congratulations to our exceptional nursing graduates on your achievement,” said IRSC President Timothy E. Moore, Ph.D. “Your dedication through challenging coursework, clinical rotations, and the pursuit of excellence has prepared you for the noble profession that awaits. Our community and healthcare institutions will be strengthened by your presence and your commitment to compassionate, skilled care for those in need. On behalf of Indian River State College, I celebrate your success and look forward to the positive impact you will undoubtedly make in countless lives!”

The nursing graduation was part of IRSC’s Spring 2025 Commencement, conferring credentials to over 2,100 graduates across six ceremonies from April 30 to May 2.

“These extraordinary graduates enter the nursing workforce at a key moment for healthcare in Florida,” said Dr. Letourneau. “The knowledge, skills, and compassion they’ve developed at Indian River State College will launch their careers and contribute to improved health outcomes across our communities.”

IRSC’s nursing program is a cornerstone of healthcare education in Florida. Programs offered included an Associate Degree in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Licensed Practical Nurse tracks. Blending clinical experience with cutting-edge research in state-of-the-art facilities, the evidence-based curriculum focuses on producing skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals thoroughly prepared for modern nursing practice demands.

“Today is a celebration of both personal achievement and community impact,” said Dr. Patricia Gagliano, Ph.D., RN, Dean of the School of Nursing at IRSC. “Our graduates are fulfilling their career aspirations while answering the call to serve their neighbors and strengthen our local healthcare systems. The advanced training they’ve received at Indian River State College has prepared them to deliver exceptional care from day one.”

The college significantly expanded its nursing program with a 50,000-square-foot facility at the Pruitt Campus in Port St. Lucie in 2023. This facility features state-of-the-art technology and simulated environments that mirror real hospital settings, including emergency, intensive care, labor and delivery, pediatric, and medical-surgical units.

To learn more about the IRSC Nursing Program and application information, visit www.irsc.edu/programs or contact the School of Nursing directly at 772-336-6330. Applications for the Fall 2025 ADN program will close on May 15, 2025, and applications for the Summer 2025 R.N. to B.S.N. program will close on June 1, 2025.