Orleans/Niagara BOCES celebrates LPN program graduates

By Lisa Bielmeier

Orleans/Niagara BOCES Public Relations Director

At a ceremony on March 8, Orleans/Niagara BOCES celebrated the accomplishments of Ashleigh Brownlee, Arianna Chiappone, Nina D’Arcangelo, Katie Dunning, Emily Koerner, Brennen O’Connor, Tikera Ralands, Danielle Walker and Lauren Wiley. The nine adult learners graduated from the licensed practical nursing (LPN) program at the Lockport Community Education Center.

Of the rigorous, 13-month program, and its graduates, Health Sciences Coordinator Diana Petrizzo, R.N., said, “This program requires much focus, dedication and commitment. These graduates chose to enter the nursing profession at a critical, much-needed time … a global pandemic. While many were isolating from others, they chose to reach out; to help others. Some of them were already health care workers and witnessed so many leaving the field, but instead of leaving, they stepped up and asked, ‘What more can I do?’ ”

The graduates thanked their instructors, registered nurses Debra Dittmer, Roxanne Burke-Smith, Diane Stauder, Nicole Zglinicki and Haley Alfieri, along with the support staff that helped them get through the program.

“When I reflect on this class, the thing that immediately comes to mind is teamwork,” Petrizzo said. “They all wanted to see each other succeed, and they provided support to each other along the way. This class displayed amazing perseverance, tenacity, commitment and leadership skills.”

For more information on the spring LPN programs offered at the Lockport Community Education Center and the Niagara Falls Workforce Training Center, go to the Orleans/Niagara BOCES website (under education and programs // adult/continuing education).