Nunez Practical Nursing Graduates 24 at Spring 2026 Pinning Ceremony

Twenty-four Nunez Community College Practical Nursing graduates took the stage May 18 in the Nunez Auditorium in Chalmette to participate in the program’s Spring 2026 Pinning Ceremony.

Graduates receiving special recognition during the ceremony included award recipients for the PN Program’s three standard awards, plus a fourth award, the Clinical Excellence Award, added for the Class of Spring 2026.

“With each graduating class, we present three awards to outstanding students. This year, the faculty and I have decided to add a fourth award to recognize the exceptional achievements within this cohort,” said Melissa Elsensohn, Director and Program Chair of Practical Nursing.

The winner of the inaugural Clinical Excellence Award was Erykah Bell of Metairie.

“From the very beginning of the program, Erykah has shown curiosity and a genuine willingness to learn,” said Elsensohn. “Her clinical instructors describe her as someone who takes initiative, asks thoughtful questions, and seeks every opportunity to strengthen her skills. She communicates effectively, thinks critically, and adapts quickly in fast-paced environments. Her calm presence and commitment to safe, high-quality care have made a lasting impression on both staff and patients.”

The winner of the Florence Nightingale Award, presented to the student who best embodies the qualities of the mother of modern nursing, was Shaundel Thomas of Picayune, Miss.

“Nursing faculty describe Shaundel as showing unwavering dedication while striving to meet his goals. He has a heart of gold and approaches every situation with a positive mindset,” said Elsensohn. “In clinical settings, he is quietly energized, logical in his approach to patient care. His positive impact on those around him is undeniable.”

The Spirit Award, chosen by the graduating class as the unofficial cheerleader for the group, went to Claudean Capers of Chalmette.

“Claudean is described by her peers as someone whose positive energy is never dull. She remains uplifting, encouraging and supportive regardless of the trials and tribulations she may be experiencing,” said Elsensohn. “Her classmates say she always offers kind words, prayers and encouragement. She maintained a positive attitude and stayed motivated to finish strong, inspiring others to do the same.”

The Academic Achievement Award, presented to the student with the highest GPA in the graduating class, went to Lanata Fournette of Slidell.

“Rest assured, this is no easy accomplishment,” Elsensohn told the gathered family and friends on hand to support their grads. “As any nursing student can tell you, these courses are rigorous and require tremendous dedication. Lanata is known for always studying, asking questions, and striving to deepen her understanding. Her commitment to learning extends far beyond the classroom.”

Graduates were also recognized for holding office in Nunez’s Student Nursing Association. Those graduates included President Jada McCathen, Vice President Claudean Capers, Secretary Erykah Bell, Treasurer Briyanna Martin and Event Coordinator Danielle Miller.

Graduates included:

Erykah Bell of Metairie

Kimberly Briscoe of Slidell

Claudean Capers of Chalmette

A'Naya Crutchfield of New Orleans

Michelle Fields of New Orleans

Lanata Fournette of Slidell

Sha'Kira Gray of Chalmette

Raven Johnson of Marrero

Nashua Jones of Slidell

Barbara Lewis of Westwego

Briyanna Martin of New Orleans

Jada McCathen of Slidell

Danielle Miller of New Orleans

Sierra Morgan of New Orleans

Eddrina Owens of Harvey

Angel Quillens of New Orleans

Savannah Rattley of New Orleans

Ashley Sentimore of New Orleans

Dyshell Shaffer of Marrero

Seymone Shelling of New Orleans

Shanquale Sylve of Buras

Shaundel Thomas of Picayune, Miss.

D'Andrea Williams of New Orleans

Niyah Young of New Orleans