Pima Medical Institute made history October 5, 2024 by hosting the medical career college’s first-ever, in-person graduation ceremony for online graduates. The event marked a weekend of celebration and achievement for the graduates and their families. Held at the Linda Ronstadt Auditorium in Tucson, Arizona, more than 200 graduates proudly walked the stage, receiving their associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the presence of family, friends and Pima Medical faculty and staff.
The weekend of festivities kicked off Friday night with an Open House reception at the Tucson campus, where graduates and their loved ones gathered to celebrate their accomplishments, meet faculty members and connect with peers they had studied alongside virtually. The reception set the tone as graduates from across the country finally met face-to-face with those who had been a part of their academic journey.
Karen Dosh completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). She was a member of Pima Medical Institute’s second-ever Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program and completed her Nursing degree with Pima Medical as well. She is now part of the first-ever, in-person graduation celebration for Online. She was thrilled to meet her fellow students and the faculty and staff in person to celebrate her accomplishment.
“After attending and completing my LPN and Nursing programs on a Pima Medical campus, The Online BSN was a seamless transition for me,” Dash said. “It was so interactive, I was able to get to know my instructors and classmates and felt like I was on a campus, even though we were online. Meeting everyone in person was the icing on the cake.”
The graduation ceremony Saturday afternoon was buzzing with excitement. The Online graduates, who had pursued their degrees while balancing careers, family responsibilities and other challenges, were recognized for their perseverance and dedication. The ceremony also shined a spotlight on Pima Medical Institute’s commitment to offering quality, flexible education that empowers students to reach their goals, no matter where they are in life.
Ben Soulatti is a two-time online degree graduate and was the featured student speaker. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS) and the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL).
“I was able to do both the MSOL and BSRS programs while I was working full time, Soulatti said. “It was challenging but it was manageable. I always felt supported and always knew the faculty and staff were there to support me.”
This first in-person graduation ceremony for online graduates marks a new tradition for the college founded back in 1972, showcasing the growing success and impact of the career college’s online division. As graduates now enter the healthcare field or advance their careers with new skills and credentials, this milestone graduation will be remembered as a moment they came together in person to celebrate their shared success.
Elizabeth McMahon attended Pima Medical institute for her associate degree on campus, and continued on to complete her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (BSPTA). She says this was a great way to cap off an amazing experience for her.
“You aren’t just a number at Pima Medical Institute. From my on-campus program to my bachelor’s degree, everyone was truly here to help me succeed. I am so thankful for my experience and would recommend Pima Medical to anyone considering advancing their education.”
Learn more about Pima Medical Institute at pmi.edu.
