Penn State Berks will graduate 18 students from its practical nursing program in fall 2023. Pictured are, front row: Karren Wenrich, Yarilyn Helena, Rachel Wollyung, Chenise Morel, LaTasha Ellison, Isis Pichardo, Jaime Seip and Hayle Bainbridge; small middle row: Jaylynn Rivera and Mamadou Diallo; back row: Emiley Witman, Nicole Straka, Breanna Landis, Alexandra Carpousis, Auden Taylor, Amanda Brettman and Brittany Eisenberg. Missing from photo: Michelle Geztfread.
WYOMISSING, Pa. — Eighteen new Penn State Berks practical nursing program graduates will cross the stage during the Penn State Berks fall commencement on Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Santander Arena. The students earned their certificates in practical nursing and are eligible for the National Council Licensure Examination-Practical Nurse, or NCLEX-PN.
Students began the 18-month program in August 2022. Along with their studies in the classroom, they also gained hands-on clinical experience with community partnerships in the greater Berks County area.
Graduates include: Hayle Bainbridge, Amanda Brettman, Alexandra Carpousis, Mamadou Diallo, Brittany Eisenberg, LaTasha Ellison, Michelle Geztfread, Yarilyn Helena, Breanna Landis, Chenise Morel, Isis Pichardo, Jaylynn Rivera, Jamie Seip, Nicole Straka, Auden Taylor, Karren Wenrich, Emiley Witman, and Rachel Wollyung. Several graduating class members have been recognized for their achievements. The awards and winners include:
- Excellence in Clinical Practice: Presented to the nursing student who best displays a high regard for clinical care and clinical aptitude. This award was presented to Mamadou Diallo.
- Academic Achievement Award: Presented to the student with the highest grade-point average throughout the program. This award was presented to Jamie Seip.
- Continuing Education Award: Presented to the student(s) who embodies the spirit, commitment and dedication to higher education. This award was presented to LaTasha Ellison and Chenise Morel.
Mamadou Diallo is the recipient of the Excellence in Clinical Practice Award.
Jamie Seip is the recipient of the Academic Achievement Award.
LaTasha Ellison is one of two recipients of the Continuing Education award.
Chenise Morel is one of two recipients of the Continuing Education award.
Penn State Berks is now accepting applications for the August 2024 practical nursing program. To register for a remote information session, select a TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) testing date, or learn how to apply for our program by visiting the practical nursing webpage. For more information, contact Cathleen Phillips, education program specialist, at [email protected] or 610-396-6225.
