Belhaven University Honors 2026 Nursing Graduates at Pinning Ceremony
JACKSON, Miss. (May 6, 2026) - Belhaven University’s School of Nursing celebrated the achievements of its graduates during the 2026 Nursing Pinning Ceremony. This event is a time-honored tradition recognizing the academic, clinical, and spiritual formation of its students as they enter the nursing profession.
The pinning ceremony serves as a meaningful milestone for nursing graduates, symbolizing their transition into professional practice. As part of this longstanding tradition, each nursing program’s pin is designed by its first graduating class.
Belhaven’s nursing pin, created by the Class of 2016, features a circular design with the lamp of knowledge and the year 2013, marking when the program was approved to admit students. The pin also bears the university’s motto, “To serve, not to be served,” reflecting the Christ-centered mission that guides Belhaven nurses in their vocation.
Class of 2026 Award Recipients:
- Mississippi Nurses’ Foundation Nursing Scholarship (Spring 2026): Di’Niya Baskin
- Outstanding Senior Nursing Student: Kelly McLaughlin
- Nursing Clinical Excellence Award: Lauren Snell
- Spirit of Nursing Award: Brianna Dupont
- Nightingale Award: Michelle Spann
Belhaven University Nursing Department Class of 2026:
Di’Niya Baskin, Olivia Burnham, Brianna Dupont, Jonathan French, Ashlyn Gainey, Kimona Haynes, Brittany Johnson, Olivia Kay, Chaightlin Lloyd, Kade May, Kelly McLaughlin, D’Ché McLaurin, Chelcee Porter, Lauren Snell, Michelle Spann, Richard Spann III, Jasmine Swims, and Journee Wilson.
RN to BSN Graduates:
Linda Burrage, Veronica Evans, Melissa Rias, Mallory Stoll, Kayla Trehern, Angel Weems, Devean Turner, Tierra Jefferson, and Aisha Slaughter.
The ceremony honored not only academic excellence, but also the compassion, resilience, and commitment to service demonstrated by each graduate. As they begin their careers, these nurses carry forward Belhaven’s mission to serve others with skill, integrity, and faith.