The Washington State University College of Nursing will celebrate its Spring 2026 graduates with a series of commencement and pinning ceremonies across the state this May.
These ceremonies mark a key milestone for nursing students as they transition from the classroom into professional practice. Family, friends, faculty, and clinical partners will gather to recognize the achievements of graduates from BSN, DNP, and other programs.
Ceremonies will take place at multiple locations across the state:
- Yakima
Thursday, May 7
2:00–4:00 p.m. Livestream available
Butler Haney Hall Auditorium, Yakima, WA - Tri-Cities
Thursday, May 7
7:00–8:00 p.m. Livestream available
Chief Joseph Middle School, Richland, WA - Spokane
Friday, May 8
3:00–5:00 p.m. Livestream available
Whitworth University Cowles Auditorium, Spokane, WA - Vancouver
Tuesday, May 12
6:30–8:30 p.m.
Cascades Amphitheater, Ridgefield, WA
Each ceremony will include the traditional pinning, a symbolic welcome into the nursing profession, along with remarks from faculty and student speakers.
Dean Anne Mason is expected to address graduates across ceremonies in Spokane, Tri-Cities, and Yakima, reflecting on the evolving role of nurses and the responsibility they carry into their communities.
Student speakers will also share their experiences and perspectives, including:
- Ty Vaeena, BSN ’26 (Spokane)
- Kacey Fleming, BSN ’26 (Yakima)
- Audra Podruzny, DNP ’26 (Yakima)
- Student speakers for Tri-Cities and Vancouver to be determined.
A livestream will be available for select ceremonies.
Visit our website for full event details.
