School celebrates milestone

Staff report

salem

The Hannah E. Mullins School of Practical Nursing celebrated its 100th class graduation earlier this month.

The school started in 1957 when Salem City Hospital discontinued its diploma registered-nurse program, and the school for practical nurses was established 55 years ago.

The school operates under the auspices of the school board of the Salem City School District.

Twenty-one practical nurses were presented with their diplomas and school pins, and 28 students celebrated advancing to the senior level by receiving a pin and lighting a “lamp of knowledge.”

The program is 44 weeks long, and the school graduates two classes of practical nurses per year.

Graduation took place at the Salem High School Auditorium.

Kathleen M. Reagan is the school’s director.

John Berlin, Salem mayor, presented a proclamation naming Aug. 9, 2012, was to be known as Hannah E. Mullins Day.

An address was given by Tom Bratten, the Superintendent of Salem City Schools.

A video address was presented by HEMSPN alumnus Barbara Broome, associated dean and chairwoman of Community/Mental Health at the University of South Alabama College of Nursing.

Diplomas were presented by Brad Myers, school board president.

The following awards were presented: James Wilson Award for Highest Scholastic Achievement, Steve Jones; James Wilson Award for the Best All Around Nurse, Zaneta Griffin; LPNAO membership award, Tracy Sphon; Gladys Thomas Nursing Scholarship, Dawn Shrontz; and HEMSPN Alumni Scholarship, Candace Russell.

A reception for the graduates and guests was hosted by faculty and staff. About 2000 students have graduated from the school to date.

About 700 invitations were sent to alumni, friends, clinical facilities and families.