PENDLETON – The other half of their diplomas rest on their lapels.

The 20 students who graduated from Blue Mountain Community College’s nursing program Friday afternoon spent the last two years earning their associates degrees so they can later take a national test to become registered nurses and begin their new professions.

On Friday, their first step was completed.

It’s common practice around the nation for nurses who earn their degrees to receive a lapel pin during a pinning ceremony for their efforts. BMCC’s program is no different.

BMCC nursing program coordinator Katherine Knaak explained that in years past, students who receive their nursing degrees also would receive their lapel pins and nurses’ caps.

“Capping” has since stopped, but the pinning ceremony is still important to the future health care workers, Knaak said.

Honoring the profession in such a way began with Florence Nightingale, the legendary nurse whose greatest achievement was raising nursing to a respectable profession for women.

BMCC’s students chose and purchased their own lapel pins, some carrying the insignia for BMCC. Olivia Logan purchased her BMCC pin, but also wore a pin she found on e Bay – a Caduceus pin, or a pin with a snake encircling a cross from World War II.

“I want to preserve the history of the medical profession and the history of nursing,” she said.

The pinning ceremony is historically a personal event, Knaak said. Because of funding, this year’s class funded the entire event on their own, she said.

BMCC’s 25th class chose the music, chose to give white roses to their loved ones and encouraged each other to succeed in their new careers.

They spent long nights together working on tough papers and long days working in clinics, learning in a hospital environment to which they are headed.

“They say you gain 20 pounds when you go through the program, because all you do is eat and study,” said graduate Tori Sue Horn.

More than 530 students have graduated from the college’s nursing program since its inception.