By Lori Dugan/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College honored its Spring 2025 nursing graduates during a moving pinning ceremony held May 9 at the Lee Little Theater in the Gherald L. Hoopes Jr. Activities Center.
The ceremony included student-led reflections, a keynote address from Dr. Clay Hargis, DO, of Mount Graham Regional Medical Center, a traditional pinning presentation, and the recitation of the Modern Nightingale Pledge. A blessing of the hands and a slideshow tribute concluded the afternoon, followed by a reception for graduates and their guests.
“These students are more than just future nurses—they are neighbors, family members, and community leaders who will soon serve on the front lines of care right here in Graham County and beyond,” said Sara Lemley, RN, MSN, CNE, director of nursing at EAC.
EAC President Todd Haynie and Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Susan Wood presented pins to the 15 graduating students, celebrating the completion of a rigorous nursing program that emphasizes clinical excellence, compassionate care, and service to the local community.
“EAC is proud to help grow the region’s healthcare workforce, training skilled and compassionate nurses who are ready to make an immediate impact,” Lemley said. “Our graduates are not leaving—they’re staying, serving, and strengthening the very communities they grew up in.”
During the ceremony, the College extended public thanks to the local and regional healthcare providers who partner with EAC’s Nursing Program to offer vital clinical experience. Clinical site partners include:
Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center, Mount Graham Regional Medical Center, Northern Cochise Community Hospital, San Carlos Apache Healthcare, Valleywise Health Medical Center, Banner Health, Haven of Safford, Haven Home Health & Hospice, and Summit Healthcare.
“These partnerships are essential,” Lemley said. “They allow our students to develop critical skills and confidence in real-world settings while continuing to live, learn, and serve close to home.”
EAC’s Nursing Program has a 100 percent pass rate for 2024. This is compared with a 93.75 percent state pass rate and a 91.16 percent national pass rate for 2024. Classes for the Fall 2025 semester are filling up now. For more information about EAC’s nursing program, visit www.eac.edu.
About Eastern Arizona College
Founded in 1888, Eastern Arizona College is the oldest community college in Arizona. Located in Thatcher, the college serves thousands of students annually through academic, career, and technical education programs. EAC offers affordable tuition, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment to help students achieve their educational and career goals.
