Honoring BTC’s Class of 2024 Nurses

    Bolivar Technical College (BTC) celebrated the achievements of its Fall 2024 graduates during a memorable commencement ceremony held on Sunday, December 15, at The Heights Church. Students, faculty, staff, families and friends gathered to honor the hard work and accomplishments of BTC’s nursing graduates.  

    The event began with a warm welcome from Charlotte Gray, President of BTC, who introduced the ceremony and delivered remarks highlighting the perseverance and dedication of the graduating class. She then introduced guest speaker Johnna Mortensen, BTC PN Program Coordinator, who inspired attendees with her insights and words of encouragement. 

    Heidi Rayl, this year’s student speaker, delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on her journey at BTC and the unwavering support she received from faculty, staff and classmates. Emanuela Teudan and Gretchen VanBebber provided the invocation and benediction, setting a reflective and celebratory tone for the ceremony. One of the event’s highlights was the recitation of the Nightingale Pledge, led by Mrs. Mortensen, symbolizing the graduates’ commitment to their profession and the patients they will serve.  

Practical Nursing (LPN) program and RN to BSN Completion graduates were announced as follows.  

For the Practical Nursing class: Travis Bacon of Springfield, Lacy Leanne Ballinger of Bolivar, Lauren Bradley of Ozark, Maleesa Cano of Springfield, Machelle Coffin of Humansville, Brianna Falter of Nixa, Ta’khya Farmer of Springfield, Jazmin Flores of Crane, Lynsey Garlett of Collins, Melinda Lawless of Elkland, Kathleen Lynn of Springfield, Brandy Newlon of Springfield, Heidi Rayl of Versailles, Kacie Reeves of Weaubleau, Erin Shockey of Rogersville, Nicole Shockey of Rogersville, Emanuela Teudan of Rogersville, Rebecca Thorburn of Humansville, Gretchen VanBebber of Bolivar and Katherine Webb of Springfield.

For the Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing class: Amanda Appel of Jerico Springs, Mary Beth Dampier of Urbana, Stevie Flatt of Clever, Jordan Geer of El Dorado Springs, Leota Johnson of Springfield, Hannah Link of Ash Grove, Jordon Pursifull of Republic, Ashley Stone of Springfield, Ashley Thompson of El Dorado Springs, Andrea Wells of Bolivar and Nancy White of Osceola. 

    During their time at BTC, graduates gained an education that combined rigorous academics with hands-on learning opportunities. The college’s programs in Practical Nursing (PN), Professional Nursing (RN), LPN to RN Bridge, Paramedic to RN Bridge, RN to BSN Completion and other health sciences are designed to equip students with the skills and confidence they need to excel in their careers. 

“We are proud of the way our graduates rise to meet challenges, both in the classroom and in clinical settings. They leave BTC not only with a degree or certificate, but with the preparation to make a difference in their communities,” said Charlotte Gray.  

    BTC extends heartfelt congratulations to the Fall 2024 graduates and their families. Your hard work, determination and commitment to excellence have brought you to this milestone. We look forward to seeing the incredible impact you will make in your chosen jobs and communities. 

The college is now enrolling students for the summer semester. If you are interested in any of the upcoming programs or a tour, contact the college.