Loma Linda University School of Nursing celebrated its 2026 graduates during a meaningful graduation weekend filled with reflection, recognition, and joy.
The celebration began with the Spring Pinning Ceremony, where undergraduate nursing students marked the completion of their program and the beginning of their professional nursing journey. Surrounded by family, friends, faculty, and classmates, students were honored for the dedication, perseverance, and compassion that brought them to this important moment.
Graduate students were also recognized during the Graduate Hooding Ceremony, celebrating the achievements of master’s, DNP, and PhD graduates. This special ceremony honored their advanced scholarship, leadership, clinical excellence, and commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities they serve.
The weekend continued with the Celebration of Graduates Vespers, Saturday Baccalaureate, and Sunday’s Commencement Ceremonies, where graduates crossed the stage and joined generations of Loma Linda University alumni called to lives of service. This year’s commencement address, “Know, Live, Love,” was presented by Edgar “Ed” Drachenberg, director of Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) at Loma Linda University Health.
During commencement, the School of Nursing also recognized outstanding student achievement. Elizabeth M. Girgis received the Dean’s Award for the Bachelor of Science degree, Olivia C. Hogue received the Dean’s Award for the Master of Science degree, and Elizabeth L. Mkroyan received the Dean’s Award for the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Alexis J. Perez received the 2026 President’s Award for the School of Nursing, the highest award given to a graduating student.
Lynette Bates, Dean for Residential Life at Loma Linda University, received the Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions and distinguished service to Loma Linda University Health. Bates joined Loma Linda University in 2001 as dean of women and has served the university community with dedication for more than two decades.
Throughout the weekend, the pride was unmistakable — in the smiles of graduates, the cheers of loved ones, the encouragement of faculty, and the quiet moments of gratitude shared across campus. Each ceremony reflected not only academic achievement, but also the heart of the School of Nursing’s mission: to inspire nurses to lead, transform healthcare, and serve with compassion.
Congratulations to the LLU School of Nursing Class of 2026. Your hard work, resilience, and calling have brought you to this milestone, and we are proud to celebrate all you have accomplished and all you will become.
