Graduating from college is a significant milestone in every student's life, an achievement that deserves to be celebrated to its fullest extent. For some students, this moment was nearly taken away due to unforeseen circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Many missed out on their true graduation when schools had to alter or cancel ceremonies for the health and safety of everyone involved. Others lost this opportunity due to the college's previous lack of preparedness for inclement weather, missing the chance to wear their cap and gown and experience the joy of walking with their peers.

In Ocean County, New Jersey, nursing students like us are currently excluded from the main commencement ceremony and instead have our achievements combined within a smaller pinning ceremony. While the pinning ceremony holds cultural significance in the field of nursing, it does not replace the experience of participating in a full commencement with the rest of the graduating class. We, too, have dedicated years of hard work and study to reach this point, and we deserve the recognition that comes with participating in a traditional graduation ceremony.

Our request is simple and fair: include nursing students in the commencement ceremony alongside all other graduates. This change not only honors the monumental effort nursing students have put into their education but also aligns with the inclusivity and equality that higher education institutions strive to uphold.

Including nursing students in the commencement ceremony provides them with full acknowledgment of their academic achievements and brings them into the shared experience of graduating with the entire class. It underscores the message that all students are valued equally, regardless of their field of study.

We call upon the administrative bodies of colleges and universities in Ocean County to make this crucial change. Let's unite to ensure that every student's educational journey is celebrated equally and fully, recognizing their hard work, dedication, and resilience.

Sign this petition to support our cause and bring us one step closer to inclusivity in our graduation ceremonies. Your signature matters and makes a difference in bringing attention to this important issue.