The ABSN Program celebrated its Fall 2020 cohort with a in-person recognition luncheon on Monday, Dec. 6. With this cohort starting during COVID, they didn't have any in-person classes until this semester, their last semester before they graduate on Saturday, Dec. 11, during DUSON's Winter 2021 Hooding and Recognition Ceremony.

Individuals were recognized with awards during the luncheon:

• Faculty Embodiment of Duke’s Guiding Principles: Amie Koch, assistant professor
• Faculty Excellence in Teaching: Mariam Kayle, assistant professor
• Excellence in Clinical Teaching: Lacrecia Bell, clinical nurse educator
• Staff Excellence: Najla McClain, program coordinator, ABSN Program
• Student Embodiment of Duke’s Guiding Principles: Dorie Pierce

Donna Biederman, associate professor and cohort coordinator, was among the other individuals recognized. 

"In the midst of the pandemic, when there was so much uncertainty and darkness in the world, Duke School of Nursing taught us to find our voice and gave us the tools to be leaders and changemakers," said Courtney Justus, student speaker. "We are entering the new phase of our lives where we will be the ones delivering care and advocating for our patients. We will face similar challenges to those who have come before us, and it is our duty to show that same level of compassion and empathy to provide a space for our patients to be seen and heard. The strength, resiliency, and passion we all showed amidst the pandemic are what make me so proud to be a part of the Fall 2020 ABSN cohort."

The full program is available on the DUSON website. For more photos, check out our Flickr album. 

Congrats to all our ABSN graduates!