School of Nursing Commencement 2024
Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco rang with applause and enthusiastic cheers as members of the School of Nursing Class of 2024 crossed the stage to receive their diplomas during the school’s commencement celebration on June 11.
Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Catherine Lucey, MD, MACP, conferred degrees on 176 master’s and doctoral graduates. Additionally, 16 nurses received post-master’s certificates in advanced specialties.
Carol Dawson-Rose, PhD, RN, FAAN, dean of the School of Nursing, began the evening’s celebration by welcoming graduates, university leadership, faculty and guests.
Keynote speaker Maddy Pearson, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, chief nursing executive and vice president of patient care services at UCSF Health and senior associate dean for clinical affairs in the School of Nursing, spoke about the important role of the nurse as an advocate, challenging graduates to use their voice.
“We know that in today’s health care landscape, change is a given. For health care to advance, there will be disruption and we cannot allow disruption to throw us off course. During periods of change and transition, we must remain adept at guiding advocacy,” said Pearson. “Nursing is a calling and so is advocacy. While the work is incredibly demanding, the rewards are so worthwhile.”
Leading with compassion and a commitment to advance health equity were themes among student speakers Christina Keny (PhD in Nursing), Adrienne McIntyre (Doctor of Nursing Practice) and Mark Tungol (Master of Science).
“Let us be leaders who advocate fiercely for patient rights, researchers who drive scientific advances and educators who inspire the next generation,” said Keny.
The following students were recognized at Commencement for their achievements:
- Minjung Kyung, Kate Oppegaard and Joosun Shin received the Distinguished Dissertation Award in Nursing
- Jessica Gaylord received the Outstanding Doctor of Nursing Practice Award
- Mark Tungol received the Outstanding Master of Science Award
- Neil Oppenheimer received the Outstanding Post-Master’s Student Award
- Johanna Velazquez received the Community Impact Doctoral Student Award
- Sarah Nathan received the Nursing Alumni Student Award for Meritorious Service
- Cariann Perumal received the Emma Deboncoeur Trans Health Scholarship Award
In addition, the graduating students honored three faculty members for their mentoring and teaching excellence:
- Cynthia Belew, MS, RN, CNM, was honored as teacher of the year
- Marianne Hultgren, DNP, RN, was selected as DNP mentor of the year
- Linda Park, PhD, RN, FAAN, was honored as the PhD mentor of the year