In the front row, from left, are Diedre LaFave, Mika Oliver-Olson, Theresa Marohnic, Danielle Jacuzzo, Juliette Suriano, Ashleigh Herbst, Emma Jay, Bridget Wood and Samantha Sundell. In the back, from left, are Jillian Willette, Natalie Carlson, Amanda Roe, Devyn Lusardi, Christine Floyd, Lindsey Roman and Dan Zintman. (Photo courtesy of MVM Photo Co.)

ESCANABA – Bay College has recognized its 2025 associate degree in nursing graduates from the Escanaba Bay College campus during a pinning ceremony held on Dec. 16 at the Besse Auditorium. The ceremony marked the successful completion of a rigorous academic and clinical program and celebrated the graduates’ transition into the nursing profession. With completion of the program, each graduate is now eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.

The nursing program at Bay College offers an associate degree in nursing that is approved by the state of Michigan Board of Nursing and fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. This distinction reflects the college’s commitment to high academic standards, quality instruction, and graduate readiness for professional practice.

Nursing continues to be one of the most in-demand careers nationwide, offering meaningful work, long-term job security and opportunities to make a lasting impact in the lives of others. Bay College’s AAS-Nursing (RN) program is a five-semester curriculum designed to prepare students with the competencies necessary to succeed as registered nurses in today’s evolving healthcare environment.

The college’s cutting-edge simulation lab provides students with valuable hands-on experience through supervised clinical placements in hospitals and long-term care facilities, as well as advanced learning opportunities. These experiences help bridge theory and practice, ensuring graduates are well prepared to provide safe, compassionate and effective patient care.

Through its associate degree in nursing program, Bay College continues to support workforce development in the region while preparing graduates for honorable, stable and rewarding careers in healthcare.