Graduates from Nursing, Respiratory Care, Medical Assisting, and Phlebotomy Programs Recognized Ahead of Commencement
SUNY Sullivan honored the next generation of healthcare professionals during its 2026 Health Sciences Pinning Ceremony on Thursday, May 14, in the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse.
The annual ceremony recognized graduates from the college’s Nursing, Respiratory Care, Medical Assisting, and Phlebotomy programs as they prepared to enter careers throughout Sullivan County and the surrounding region.
Guest speaker Jerry Dunlavey, chief executive officer of Garnet Health Medical Center-Catskills, addressed graduates as they stood on the threshold of careers in some of the region’s most essential and in-demand professions.
The ceremony reflected a significant period of growth for SUNY Sullivan’s Health Sciences division, which has expanded by more than 50 percent over the last two years in response to rising regional workforce demand. The placement numbers underscore that momentum: at the time of the ceremony, 95 percent of Nursing graduates, 80 percent of Respiratory Care graduates, and 75 percent of Medical Assisting graduates had already accepted positions in their chosen field.
“These outcomes speak not only to the dedication of our students and faculty, but also to the urgent need for highly trained healthcare professionals throughout our region,” said Dr. David Potash, president of SUNY Sullivan. “Our graduates are entering critical careers where they will make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities every day.”
Dr. Chyrise Taylor, director of Nursing programs at SUNY Sullivan, said the ceremony represented both a personal milestone for graduates and an important transition into professional practice.
“Each year this is a bittersweet moment,” said Taylor. “I am especially proud to know that the staff and faculty of the SUNY Sullivan Health Sciences programs have collectively helped to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals for our county and our state. Your practice will be a reflection of you, and we trust that whenever someone sees you, they will see the hard work, sacrifice, and dedication that brought you here today. Now go set the world on fire.”
The ceremony featured addresses from student speakers across programs. Ariana Curbelo-Negron, valedictorian of the Respiratory Care program, called on her classmates to embrace the weight of the profession they were entering.
“Respiratory therapy is more than just a career, it’s a commitment to your patients and your community,” said Curbelo-Negron. “We will be making a difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments. That is both a privilege and a responsibility.”
Nursing valedictorian Violla Shami drew on the Dickens quote she chose to close her remarks, urging graduates to lead with empathy as they stepped into practice: “Have a heart that never hardens, a temper that never tires, a touch that never hurts.”
Nursing salutatorian Michael Pelton reflected on the mindset Dr. Taylor instilled in the program from day one. “She emphasized an important point: it’s not if you all graduate, it’s when,” said Pelton. “That is a fundamental mindset woven into the entire program, from every instructor and faculty member. They believe in you, they encourage you, and they want you to succeed.”
Thirty-one Nursing graduates were recognized during the ceremony, with awards presented by Dr. Taylor. The ceremony also honored 18 Respiratory Care graduates and eight Medical Assisting graduates. Additionally, 24 students were recognized for completing SUNY Sullivan’s Phlebotomy Microcredential program, a direct and affordable pathway into clinical employment that has become one of the college’s fastest-growing entry-level healthcare credentials.
Nursing graduates also participated in the recitation of the International Council of Nurses’ Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to professional ethics and patient care.
The pinning ceremony took place earlier in the day before SUNY Sullivan’s 62nd Annual Commencement Ceremony, where graduates joined the broader Class of 2026 in celebrating their academic achievements.
About SUNY Sullivan: SUNY Sullivan is the leader of innovative higher education and a catalyst for workforce development throughout the Sullivan Catskills and beyond. Our diverse community cultivates personal growth and professional advancement, preparing students for success in a sustainable and interconnected world. A forward-looking, top-tier community college in New York, SUNY Sullivan offers dozens of degree programs, certificates, and microcredentials for learners at all levels of their educational goals. We value critical inquiry and creativity while supporting our students in a culture of inclusion and respect.
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