The Linfield University School of Nursing honors its newest graduating class in its December Pinning Ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 at Parkrose High School. In-person attendees need tickets for the event. The ceremony is also available via livestream on the Linfield University YouTube channel sponsored by Willamette Valley Medical Center.
Pinning ceremonies mark the completion of a student’s nursing education. Each graduate receives a unique school pin that connects graduates to their specific program. The upcoming ceremony honors 44 graduates earning their Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
“I had the privilege of getting to know this cohort closely while teaching their leadership course this semester, and they continually impressed me,” said Paul Smith, dean of the Linfield School of Nursing. “One theme I saw consistently in their work and in how they showed up for one another was advocacy — clear, confident and grounded in compassion. They bring strong clinical preparation and a deep commitment to human connection — qualities our communities need now more than ever.”
The December Pinning Ceremony features remarks by Smith; Kathleen (Kohler) Peters ’17, a certified registered nurse anesthetist; graduating student Francisco Guevara, who was chosen to speak by his peers; and Linfield President Mark Blegen. Having started his tenure in July 2025, the December event marks Blegen’s first pinning ceremony as university president.
“I am honored to celebrate our newest graduates from the Linfield University School of Nursing,” Blegen said. “This milestone marks not only the culmination of their hard work and dedication but also the beginning of their professional journeys in nursing. It’s inspiring to see our students carry forward the proud legacy of excellence and compassion that defines Linfield’s School of Nursing.”
Linfield’s School of Nursing was created in 1982, with the merging of Linfield College and the Good Samaritan Hospital’s nursing education program. The Good Samaritan nursing program traces its roots to 1890 and founder Emily Loveridge. With this heritage, Linfield’s program is the oldest continuously operated nursing school in the Pacific Northwest.
Currently, Linfield’s School of Nursing offers a traditional two-year BSN program, as well as a one-year accelerated BSN program. Linfield also has the state’s only Master’s Entry into Professional Nursing program. Created for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, the 15-month program allows students to enter the nursing field with a Master of Science in Nursing degree.
Additional information about the School of Nursing is at linfield.edu/nursing.
