Bons’ centenary celebrations rounded off with graduations

THE Bon Secours Hospital in Cork concluded its year-long centenary celebrations for the School of Nursing with the 2023 Nurse Graduation Ceremony.

The graduation ceremony witnessed the initiation of 19 newly appointed staff nurses, all of whom successfully completed their four-year BSc. nursing degree at University College Cork in conjunction with the guidance and mentorship of Dr Mary Forde, Director of Practice Development & Education at Bon Secours and her team.

The ceremony’s highlight was the presentation of the esteemed Potel Award to Emma Nolan, described as a highly deserving recipient who was recognised by her nursing peers for her composed and reassuring presence, which positively impacted both patients and colleagues.

The Potel Award serves as a distinguished acknowledgment and celebration of her remarkable contributions to the nursing field.

A hospital spokesperson said that Emma Nolan’s nomination highlighted her exceptional qualities, portraying her as a consummate professional radiating calmness and providing assurance to those around her.

Ber Mulcahy, the esteemed Director of Nursing at Bon Secours, extended a heartfelt welcome to colleagues and families of the graduates, urging them to embrace the vision and courage that define the Bon Secours legacy, and concluding with a poignant reminder to honour the past, respect the present, and shape the future.

Reflecting on this historic occasion, Mary Hinchliffe, a distinguished Bon Secours nurse, shared her extraordinary journey since completing her training 44 years ago at Bon Secours Hospital Cork.

Mary’s dedication gained international recognition when she received the Florence Nightingale Medal, acknowledging her exceptional courage and devotion to the wounded, sick, and disabled victims of the Armenian earthquake back in 1988.