Illinois State University Mennonite College of Nursing kicked off Nurses Week on Tuesday, April 18, with two events: the MCN Scholars Symposium and the Alumni/Student Career panel. The SNA Candlelighting Ceremony was celebrated on Thursday, April 20. On Friday, April 21, the Golden Jubilee event celebrated the Class of 1967 for its 50th Reunion. Nurses Week ended on Saturday, April 22, with the Awards and Reunion Banquet where 4 outstanding recipients were recognized for awards.
MCN Scholars Symposium
MCN Nurses Week kicked off with a new event this year: the MCN Scholars Symposium. Participants were able to explore research and evidence-based practice by faculty and students. Two awards were presented. The Scientific Merit Award was given to SeonYoon Chung, Ph.D., RN, and the Most Popular Award was given to Melissa Jarvill, Ph.D., RNC-NIC. This event was sponsored by Sigma Theta Tau Xi Pi Chapter.
Alumni/Student Career Panel
MCN welcomed back five alumni to participate in a panel discussion with students about career options. Crystal Bricker, B.S.N. ’10; Jennifer Kelsey, B.S.N. ’06; Marsha Reeves ’80, Ed Reitz, B.S. ’82, M.S. ’85, MBA ’89, B.S.N. ’94; and Melinda Roth, B.S.N. ’03, M.S.N. ’13. Students gained valuable advice about interviewing, opportunities, continuing education and professional development.
SNA Candlelighting Ceremony
Senior nursing students and faculty continue the tradition of celebrating their accomplishments at the Candlelighting Ceremony. Vickie Gasche Lannie ’65 was the keynote speaker and gave an inspirational speech.
Golden Jubilee Celebration
This event honors nursing alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. Marilyn Row Marquis ’67 was celebrating her 50th Reunion, and the group enjoyed sharing stories about their time in nursing school. TV-10 News covered this event for their newscast.
Awards and Reunion Banquet
There was a span of 64 years at the banquet this year, with alumni from the Class of 1948 to the Class of 2012! Awards were presented, and Reunion Classes were recognized. More stories were shared – a favorite at this event! Milestone reunion classes were celebrated, and former MCN President, Kathleen A. Hogan was recognized at this event.
More photos of these events can be viewed on the MCN Flickr account.
