More than 20 students in Daemen University’s Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) Program were celebrated during a white coat ceremony at Classics V Banquet & Conference Center.
The white coat ceremony reflects their transition from a registered nurse to a nurse practitioner.
Each student selected an important person in their life to present their white coat, including family members, friends, classmates, and faculty.
“Nurse Practitioners care for patients differently than other providers,” said Dr. Martha Kershaw, the department chair of the nursing program. “Their nursing background has taught them to be patient-centered. They can practice independently so they can serve areas that may not have providers available like rural areas.”
The AGPCNP master’s program prepares students to provide direct patient care to adults through senescence in a variety of settings. Graduates go on to work in clinics and primary care offices.
Dr. Kershaw added, “We are extremely proud of the students in this class. They are a strong group that started their program during the height of the pandemic and were successful in their quest to earn this degree. Their clinical sites recognized them for their work ethic, their connections with patients, and for becoming strong providers.”
Daemen started the white coat ceremony for the AGPCNP program in January 2022 because the students completed their program in December when there was no graduation ceremony. They are able to participate in the formal graduate commencement ceremony in May.
