The McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) proudly celebrates its students’ achievements. 

Nearly 400 students will graduate this December. Many participated in department or school ceremonies, where they were hooded, pinned and/or received a white coat. 

“William Shakespeare once said, ‘It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves.’ This reminder feels especially meaningful as we celebrate the accomplishments of our students,” said Dr. Letitia White Minnis, MCHHS associate dean. 

She added that each graduation ceremony reflects a moment of transition.  

“On behalf of the MCHHS, I want to congratulate all students celebrating important milestones, whether it be a white coat ceremony, a pinning ceremony or graduation. These achievements reflect your dedication and hard work. We look forward to the positive impact you’ll make in your profession and the communities you serve.” 

These ceremonies mark key academic milestones for students at different stages in their programs. Hooding and pinning recognize progress toward degree completion, while white coat ceremonies represent the transition into clinical rotations.  

The programs 

Occupational Therapy  

• Twenty-six Master of Occupational Therapy students were hooded. 

Nursing 

• Fifty-two Bachelor of Science in Nursing students were pinned.
• One Master of Science in Nursing–Nurse Educator student graduated this December. 

Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) 

• Twenty-six SLP students were pinned this December. The ceremony recognizes their readiness to begin clinical rotations ahead of spring graduation. 

Physician Assistant Studies (PAS) 

• Thirty-three PAS students received white coats as they transitioned into clinical training, while another cohort of 33 students graduated this fall. 

Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) 

• DNAP CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) students celebrated their program completion at a graduation ceremony, with 21 graduates this year – 15 in August and six in December. 

Counseling program 

• Twenty-four students in the counseling program graduated this December. 

Psychology 

• Two students in the psychology program will receive master’s degrees. 

MCHHS remains committed to supporting students as they move from classroom learning into professional practice. These new graduates and trainees will strengthen communities and contribute to the future of the health and human services workforce. 

Explore MCHHS programs