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Smiling, sharing hugs and waving to a max-capacity audience, a graduating class of 53 graduate nurses (GNs) and graduate practical nurses (GPNs) were honored during a unique Freeman Health System ceremony held Wednesday evening.

Just as athletes sign letters of intent to play at the collegiate level, these nurses signed their names to join “Team Freeman.”

“Tonight is a celebration,” said Freeman Senior Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer Jeanee Kennedy. “This moment marks your transition from preparation to performance, from training to team. Each of you deserves your place here for your great discipline, long nights, and an unwavering commitment to care.”

During the ceremony, held on the Missouri Southern State University campus, family and friends gathered around the signing table to celebrate their loved one’s hard-earned achievement, often punctuated by cheers and chants from the audience.

“You are signing on to a profession that changes lives every single day,” Kennedy continued. “You are choosing a department, a mascot, and a team that will shape you, and will be shaped by you.”

The nurses—who will enter various Freeman departments such as the birthing center, pediatrics, cardiology, emergency department, orthopedics, and transitional care unit (TCU), among others—will take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Upon passing the exam, they will become either registered nurses or licensed practical nurses at Freeman.

“This is a huge moment,” said Nathan Cantwell, Director of Freeman’s TCU, Cardiac Medical Unit, and Infusion Center. “What you guys are doing tonight represents all the late nights that you’ve spent studying, all the early mornings, all the caffeine over the years, all the stress and anxiety. I hope tonight you can take a moment to step back and just appreciate the finish line that you are now walking across.”

The 53 GN and GNP class marks the largest graduate nursing class since the ceremony was launched years ago.

“We are deeply grateful that you have chosen Freeman Health System as your place to grow your nursing career,” said Kristan Eaton, Freeman Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resource Officer. “Your journey allows you to provide the care, compassion, and excellence that will make a meaningful difference to our patients and our community.”