The milestone event celebrated academic excellence, clinical achievement, and the transition of students into advanced nursing practice. Hosted by the Graduate Nursing Department, the ceremony honored students’ academic accomplishments, professional growth, and commitment to advanced nursing practice.
The event was organized by Dr. Carnel Jackson, assisted by Kelly Cumella and Dr. Colleen Burgoyne, who opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks. Dr. Paula Barbel introduced platform guests, followed by a heartfelt and inspiring address from Dean Kathy Peterson. Dr. Elizabeth Heavey, chair of the Graduate Nursing Department, offered welcome remarks and introduced graduate speaker Rabia Cav, before the presentation of student awards.
The Family Nurse Practitioner Distinguished Academic Scholar Award was presented to Lindsay Eaton, Rabia Cav, and Alexa Carmichael, recognizing the students with the highest cumulative GPAs in the program. Alexa Carmichael also received the Beacon of Excellence in Clinical Care Award for demonstrating exceptional clinical expertise, compassionate patient-centered care, and strong application of evidence-based practice.
Kelly Cumella led the graduates in reciting the Nightingale Pledge and Code of Ethics, symbolizing their readiness to enter advanced practice nursing with professionalism and integrity. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Renee Biedlingmaier, clinical coordinator for the FNP program.
Family Nurse Practitioner White Coat Ceremony Honorees – Class of 2026
- Natalie Argy
- Kaytlin Ashman
- Alexa Carmichael
- Rabia Cav
- Breighanne Christensen
- Nina Clarke
- Jonathan “Lani” Dunbar
- Lindsay Eaton
- Fabernia Elien
- Xiomara Figueroa
- Kimberly Gilani
- Danielle Hadfield
- Jacob Hartman
- Rebecca Hillig
- Samuel James
- Shamya Jordan
- Abigail Kelley
- Isaac Kissi
- Michele Kolb
- Kelli Roof
- Hannah Stone
- Alissa Vazquez
- Tiffany Yu
The inaugural White Coat Ceremony reflects SUNY Brockport’s continued dedication to excellence in graduate nursing education and the advancement of healthcare leaders.