The first cohort of Yavapai College-trained Practical Nurses, or “PNs,” are on their way to earning those extra letters after their names for successfully completing the new program based at the YC Prescott Valley Center.
The PNs, many of them former Certified Nursing Assistants, or CNAs, advanced their skills for their current or future healthcare industry employers and cut in half the time required should they choose to pursue an associate’s degree and registered nurse (RN) licensing.
In all, 28 YC students earned the PN credential this academic year, celebrating with their loved ones at a pinning ceremony May 15 at the Yavapai College Prescott campus.
YC President Dr. Lisa Rhine was among the first to congratulate the new practical nurses, saying in her welcome remarks that PN students are a “special breed” who are now prepared to make a difference in our community.
“You are about to step into a profession that matters – a profession where you will hold hands during hard moments, celebrate victories both big and small and be the quiet hero in someone’s hardest hour. Never underestimate the power of your presence, your skill and your kindness,” Dr. Rhine said.
Delivering the keynote address at the PN pinning was Professor Nicole Goldberger who, like the PN graduates, started her YC journey in fall 2024.
“We were all new in some way when this began. We figured it out together—and I thank you for giving me grace as I learned right alongside you,” Goldberger said. She told the pinning ceremony audience and graduates that on day one of the PN program, “I saw something special in this class. You brought grit, determination, and a quiet strength that never wavered… Together, we built something special. We had fun, we laughed, we struggled, we celebrated, and we pushed through. We created inside jokes, forever friendships, and a classroom culture rooted in support, hard work, and a whole lot of heart.”
Following are the spring 2025 Practical Nurse program graduates:
Shaunte Anderson, Hannah Arwine, Ellen Blair, Katrina Boyd, Trysta Castro, Amberlee Church, Johnathon Damschroder, Danielle Gaines, Jacqueline Galvan, Rebeka Galvan, Eric Garduno Estrada, Sarah Gregory, Halie Holleman, Justine Khan, Jourdan Kinnison, Terry Lovell, Ryan Morris, Reanna Pierce, Kyle Powell, Amber Richards, Katheryn Reischer, Jessica Robison, Catherine Seaton, Fauve Stan, Robert Stanley, Ashtyn Torrez Rodriguez, Amy Williams and Anna Zea.
For information about YC’s Practical Nursing program, visit yc.edu/alliedhealth
Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, three baccalaureate degrees (with one more pending accreditation approval), student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.