We, the undersigned students, alumni, families, and supporters, respectfully request thoughtful revisions to current policies regarding the nursing pinning ceremony and associated graduation traditions at Averett University.

Our Requests:

Allow Graduates to Choose Their Pinner
The act of pinning is deeply symbolic and personal, representing each graduate’s journey from student to professional nurse. We believe each graduate should be allowed to choose who performs this meaningful ceremony — whether a mentor, family member, friend, or someone who played a critical role in their nursing journey.
Relocate the Ceremony to a Neutral Venue
We respectfully request that the pinning ceremony not be held in a religious space. While we understand there are logistical considerations, using a religious venue can feel exclusive or uncomfortable for students of differing faiths or no religious affiliation. A neutral, inclusive setting better reflects the diversity of all nursing cohorts.
Reinstate the Lantern Ceremony and Graduation Cords
We were disappointed to learn that the longstanding lantern ceremony tradition is being removed, not due to class size but as a policy decision. The lantern and graduation cords represent enlightenment, commitment, and completion — a proud symbol for nurses for generations. These should not be optional or cut due to policy shifts. Given that each student invests approximately $70,000 into their education at Averett University, removing these meaningful traditions without student input feels dismissive and unjustified. We ask that the university reinstate these items or provide them at reduced cost through an opt-in process.

Why This Matters

Nursing school is more than academics — it requires personal sacrifice, emotional labor, and unwavering dedication. Choosing our own pinner, participating in a traditional lantern ceremony, and receiving cords are meaningful parts of acknowledging that journey. These are not extras — they are part of the recognition we have earned.

The pinning ceremony has deep historical roots, tracing back to the 12th century with the Knights Hospitaller and carried forward through Florence Nightingale’s legacy. Today, many nursing schools, including Old Dominion University, have modernized the tradition to allow students to choose who pins them and to include personal and cultural significance.

What We Ask

We ask Averett University to honor these traditions by restoring the lantern ceremony, allowing graduates to choose their pinner, and ensuring ceremonies are inclusive of all backgrounds and beliefs. These updates will bring the nursing program in line with modern values of respect, inclusivity, and student-centered celebration.

Let’s protect the heart of nursing tradition and ensure every graduate feels seen, supported, and honored.

Sign to support nursing students past, present, and future.