West Coast University graduates and their loved ones gathered at the Miami Dade Auditorium this September to celebrate the Summer 2023 WCU Commencement in Miami.
To kick off the event, WCU Co-Presidents Ward Ulmer and Tim Lee expressed their best wishes to the graduates from the Miami campus and Online Programs and shared their pride and excitement for their educational achievements.
Dr. Carol Biggs, Jackson Health System senior vice president and chief nursing executive, reflected in her keynote address on leading the nursing organization of one of the nation’s largest public healthcare systems.
“You have chosen the profession which continues to be recognized as the most trusted, honest, and ethical profession in the world,” she told the graduates during her speech. “In today’s ever-evolving healthcare landscape, you are called to be the change-makers, the advocates, and the healers. You are the bridge between science and humanity, the ones who hold the hands of those in pain, comfort the anxious hearts, and provide solace in times of distress. Your role is indispensable, and your impact immeasurable.”
Valedictorian Emylee G. reflected on the significance of commencement, and the challenges she and her fellow graduates each had to overcome to reach this point in their journeys. WCU alumna Leslie G. shared her perspective on the importance of education and how her time at WCU has played such a vital role in her ability to provide comprehensive care to patients and families.
Family and friends of the graduates enthusiastically cheered as they crossed the stage to receive their diplomas. They received congratulatory wishes from WCU-Miami Executive Director Sharon Richardson, as well as WCU faculty and leaders from throughout the organization. Associates who came out to help with the event also expressed their pride and excitement for the graduating class.
“I really enjoyed being part of our commencement ceremony again — it is a truly special day for all of us who have watched our students put in the hard work it takes to get here,” WCU-Miami Student Affairs Director Adiela Naranjo said, noting this was the sixth commencement ceremony she has helped facilitate. “It’s such a wonderful feeling to witness our students achieve their educational goals, congratulate them, and wish them the very best as they enter their healthcare professions.”
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