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SWCC, VHCC, and Tidewater Community College Celebrate 105 Healthcare Graduates at Pinning Ceremonies

OTA Pinning Ceremony Group Photo

Cedar Bluff – Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC), in partnership with Virginia Highlands Community College (VHCC) and Tidewater Community College (TCC), celebrated the accomplishments of students from multiple healthcare programs during various pinning ceremonies, the first staring at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

The ceremony honored a total of 105 graduates from six healthcare programs, including Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) – 8 graduates, Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) – 12 graduates, Radiography – 21 graduates, Registered Nursing (RN) – 47 graduates, Pharmacy Technician – 7 graduates, and Diagnostic Medical Sonography – 10 graduates. Faculty, family members, and friends gathered to recognize the graduates’ dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence in patient care.

Pinning ceremonies are long‑standing traditions in healthcare education, symbolizing both academic achievement and the ethical responsibilities graduates assume as they enter their respective professions. During the event, each graduate received a program‑specific pin representing their readiness to provide skilled, compassionate, and patient‑centered care in diverse healthcare environments.

The program featured student speakers from several disciplines who reflected on their shared journeys through rigorous coursework, hands‑on clinical education, and the strong bonds formed throughout their programs. Attendees also viewed a student slideshow highlighting memorable moments and experiences from the graduates’ time in the programs.

“This ceremony reflects not only academic success, but also the compassion, integrity, and professionalism these graduates bring to the healthcare field,” said Radiography Program Director, Donna Corns. “We are confident they will make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.”

The healthcare programs at SWCC, VHCC, and TCC combine classroom instruction, laboratory training, and extensive clinical experience at regional healthcare facilities. This comprehensive approach equips students with the clinical competencies, technical expertise, and professional values necessary for career success.

Graduates will be eligible to sit for applicable state and national certification and licensure examinations and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, long‑term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, physician offices, pharmacies, and specialized healthcare settings.

For more information about healthcare programs at Southwest Virginia Community College, please contact:

  • RN- kim.smith@sw.edu
  • LPN- linda.clline@sw.edu
  • OTA- annette.looney@sw.edu
  • Radiography- donna.corns@sw.edu
  • Pharmacy Tech- jessica.rice@sw.edu
  • Sonography- kayla.chandler@sw.edu
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