Nearly 50 new Assiniboine nursing graduates this September

This month, many students are beginning or returning to their studies at Assiniboine Community College. For 49 Practical Nursing graduates in Brandon and Winnipeg, they’re celebrating the completion of their college journey.

Earlier today, 31 graduates of the program were recognized at a ceremony in Brandon, having begun their studies in the two-year diploma program in January 2018 at the college’s Victoria Avenue East campus. Next Friday, 18 additional graduates will cross the stage in Winnipeg, following the completion of their studies from Assiniboine’s nursing program there.

“We are proud of the many individuals who graduate from our nursing program each year,” said Suzanne Nicolas, Associate Dean of Health & Human Services at Assiniboine. “They are prepared to start meaningful careers in health care, helping to provide essential services to communities around the province.”

Sabrina Dueck and Morgan Wiebe are valedictorians from the September graduating class in Brandon.

Dueck said the birth of her younger sister guided her decision to study nursing. During a volunteer trip to Ecuador, she developed a deeper sense of compassion for others and knew she wanted a career where she could use her skills and knowledge while providing care and kindness toward others.

“The nursing program has taught me so much, not only about nursing but about myself,” said Dueck. “I’m excited to start a career in this profession, learn and grow in my nursing skills, and change someone’s life for the better, even if in a small way.”

Dueck has secured a casual position with the health care centre and hospital in her hometown of Steinbach, Man., which she will begin after graduation. She said she would like to move into a more permanent position in medicine or surgery/obstetrics in the future.

Wiebe, who hails from Altona, Man., said she has always dreamed of becoming a nurse and loves learning about the medical field. This October starting in a job with a health centre in Winkler on the surgical/obstetrics ward.

“I am honoured to be a member of the nursing profession and look forward to pursuing my career, following my dreams and continuing my ever-growing quest for knowledge," said Wiebe.

In addition to the permanent nursing programs offered at Assiniboine’s campuses in Brandon, Dauphin and Winnipeg, the college is currently delivering its Practical Nursing program in Peguis First Nation, Southport, Russell, and Selkirk, Man.

Since 1975, more than 3,500 individuals have graduated from nursing programs offered by the college. In the past five years alone, Assiniboine has delivered its Practical Nursing program in 9 communities across Manitoba including Pine Falls and Melita.

Graduate licensed practical nurses (LPNs) secure careers in hospitals, personal care homes, medical clinics, private agencies and the community. With some advanced preparation, some entrepreneurial LPNs are even choosing to start their own businesses.

The demand for Assiniboine nursing graduates is high; 95 per cent of graduates surveyed from the 2017-18 academic year said they were employed, making on average more than $46,800 a year.