The Franklin County Career and Technology Center (FCCTC) Practical Nursing Program proudly celebrated the graduation of 13 students during a commencement ceremony held on February 26, 2026, at St. Paul Methodist Church.
The ceremony opened with a welcome address delivered by Dr. Al Parrillo, Assistant Director of FCCTC, who congratulated the graduates on reaching this important milestone and acknowledged the perseverance required to complete the rigorous practical nursing program.
The graduation address was presented by Lisa Mentzer, MSN, RN, a retired nursing instructor from the FCCTC Practical Nursing Program. Mrs. Mentzer spoke about the enduring need for nurses, even in an era of rapidly advancing healthcare technology. She emphasized that while technology continues to transform healthcare, it cannot replace the kindness, compassion, and consideration that nurses bring to patient care. She encouraged graduates to value the human connection at the heart of nursing, reminding them that empathy and presence remain essential to healing and quality care.
During the ceremony, several students were recognized with special awards honoring excellence in nursing practice and education:
• Florence Nightingale Award – Madelin Priest
• Clara Barton Award – Autumn Twigg
• Scholastic Award – Angelica Church
• Geriatric Nursing Award – Kayla Walls
• Mary Hege Helman Award – Jessica Cruz Romero
• Cynthia Clark Award – Breanna Miller
• Perfect Attendance Award – Jaden Painter and Madelin Priest
The FCCTC Practical Nursing Program prepares students for entry-level nursing positions through a comprehensive curriculum that blends classroom instruction, skills lab practice, and clinical experience. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN and pursue employment in a variety of healthcare settings.
FCCTC congratulates the Practical Nursing Program Class of March 2025-26 and wishes all graduates continued success as they begin their professional nursing careers.
