Light of Hope: College of Nursing’s 2nd Pinning, Capping, and Candle Lighting Ceremony 2023

The PCUD College of Nursing and Allied Health conducted their 2nd Pinning, Capping, and Candle Lighting Ceremony at Bayleaf Hotel on November 27, 2023. The ceremony was attended by the class of 2025 and 2026, consisting of 52 students and their families, faculty, and administrators, and was graced with the presence of the special guest, retired Chief Health Program Officer of DOH, Ms. Frances Presilla Cuevas, MAN, RN.

Ms. Cuevas gave an inspirational speech by sharing her experience as the daughter of a public health nurse herself. She stated that she treated the hospital as her playground because she technically grew up in one. “So many of my wonderful memories were centered on what she does in her job,” she added. Years later, she followed in her beloved mother’s footsteps and became a registered nurse as well. She served in the Philippine Public Health Service for more than 40 years and became a chief officer in the DOH until she decided to retire in 2022. Ms. Frances reminded the student nurse to elevate the standards of nursing practice and take pride in their chosen profession. “You will be the vessel of compassion and strength for those who become weak and fearful.”