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ECC Recognizes 31 Graduates at Nursing Pinning Ceremony

May 23, 2025 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College recognized 31 nursing graduates during a pinning ceremony celebrating the students’ achievements and their transition into the nursing profession.

The 2025 Nursing Pinning Ceremony was held May 17 in the gymnasium at ECC’s Union campus. The event included remarks from ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer and ECC Director of Nursing and Dean of Health Science Dr. Nancy Mitchell. Student welcome remarks were delivered by Alicia Ramirez, and Andrea Kimminau provided the student closing. The keynote address was given by Julie Chirban, nursing instructor at ECC Rolla, and ECC Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robyn Walter offered closing remarks.

The pinning ceremony is a longstanding tradition in the nursing profession and at ECC, symbolizing the completion of rigorous coursework and clinical experiences. Each graduate was presented with a nursing pin and participated in the ceremonial candle lighting, signifying their commitment to compassionate patient care.

The following graduates were recognized during the 2025 pinning ceremony:
Ayla Adams, Phoebe Arnold, Briseyda Ballou, Aimee Bartle, Madison Brown, Natalie Contreras, Thomas Emory, Breanna Garrett, Jody Golemon, Ashley Gupton, Aubrie Hampton, Kaytlyn Harmon, Aubrey Hinderliter, Mary Howard, Andrea Kimminau, Ashley Knibb, Keirstin McCormick, Pearcy McNew, Tawana McQueen, Earl Gabriel Medrano, Chelsi Naber, Donna Neulinger, Teresa Pich, Alicia Ramirez, Emma Smith, Madison Steever, Chloey Trimmer, Jessica Voss, Yangzhi Wang, Sachiko Willey, and Emma Willison.

Nursing Student Awards

Each year, East Central College recognizes students for outstanding academic achievement, clinical excellence, leadership, and professionalism.

The Outstanding Nursing Student Award, selected by ECC nursing faculty, is given to graduates who have excelled both in the classroom and in clinical settings. These students often credit ECC with helping them realize their dreams of becoming nurses.

The Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award is presented by ECC’s healthcare partners—including Mercy Hospital Washington, Phelps Health in Rolla, and Missouri Baptist Hospital Sullivan—to students who demonstrate exceptional care, compassion, inquiry, critical thinking, and organizational skills.

ECC Nursing faculty from Union and Rolla campuses presented the awards, recognizing the graduates’ dedication and achievements.

This year, four students received special recognition:

  • Briseyda Ballou – Outstanding Nursing Student (Union)
  • Mary Howard – Outstanding Nursing Student (Rolla)
  • Andrea Kimminau – Spirit of Clinical Excellence (Union)
  • Emma Willison – Spirit of Clinical Excellence (Rolla)

Briseyda Ballou, center, received the East Central College Outstanding Nursing Student Award for Union. She is pictured with, from left, Trista Elias, nursing instructor; Jessica Van Leer, nursing instructor; Judy Bieker, Union nursing program director; and Dr. Brittany Clark, nursing instructor.

Mary Howard, center, received the East Central College Outstanding Nursing Student Award for Rolla. She is pictured with, from left, Julie Chirban, nursing instructor; Joannie Blakely, Rolla nursing program coordinator; Jeannie Miles, nursing instructor; and Jon Elias, nursing instructor.

Andrea Kimminau, center, received the Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award for Union. She is pictured with, from left, Trista Elias, nursing instructor; Jessica Van Leer, nursing instructor; Judy Bieker, Union nursing program director; and Dr. Brittany Clark, nursing instructor.

Emma Willison, center, received the Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award for Rolla. She is pictured with, from left, Julie Chirban, nursing instructor; Joannie Blakely, Rolla nursing program coordinator; Jeannie Miles, nursing instructor; and Jon Elias, nursing instructor.

Three ECC Employees Honored with NISOD Excellence Awards

May 22, 2025 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Three East Central College employees have been recognized for their commitment and contributions to students, colleagues, and the College community. Joannie Blakely, Dr. Nancy Mitchell, and Kim Aguilar are the 2025 recipients of the NISOD Excellence Award, a national honor presented by the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development to celebrate outstanding work at community and technical colleges across the country.

Blakely, Mitchell, and Aguilar were recognized in the following roles:

  • Joannie Blakely — Nursing Instructor and ECC Rolla Program Coordinator
  • Dr. Nancy Mitchell — Dean of Health Science and Director of Nursing
  • Kim Aguilar — Human Resources Generalist

Joannie Blakely

As a nursing instructor and program coordinator in Rolla, Blakely has earned a reputation for her organizational strength, relationship-building, and steady leadership. She plays a central role in securing and managing clinical placements for students—often going above and beyond to ensure quality learning experiences that align with high standards of patient care.

Colleagues note her calm and proactive approach when navigating challenges and her dedication to supporting both students and fellow faculty. She’s described as someone who makes new staff feel welcome and confident in their roles. “Joannie is an invaluable asset to the nursing program,” one nominator wrote. “She volunteers her time to help others succeed and exemplifies what it means to be a leader and a team player.”

Dr. Nancy Mitchell

Mitchell, who serves as Dean of Health Science and Director of Nursing, is recognized as a visionary leader, mentor, and dedicated advocate for excellence in health care education. Known for her insight and guidance, Dr. Mitchell plays a key role in program development and navigating complex accreditation processes.

Her colleagues emphasized her ability to lead through challenges while supporting her team with clarity and care. “Nancy’s influence extends far beyond her current role,” a nomination read. “She has mentored countless professionals over the years, always setting a high bar while helping others rise to meet it.”

Kim Aguilar

In her role as Human Resources Generalist, Aguilar is known for her professionalism, warmth, and tireless dedication. As part of ECC’s two-person HR team, Aguilar manages a wide range of HR functions with precision, while also offering consistent and personal support to employees.

Her colleagues describe her as a dependable presence with a deep understanding of ECC’s policies and culture. “Kim brings genuine kindness and professionalism to every interaction,” one nominator shared. “She’s the kind of person who makes others feel seen and supported—whether it’s during onboarding, a benefits question, or a difficult situation.”

In addition to her daily responsibilities, Aguilar is active on college committees and has served on the Classified Staff Association Executive Council. Her willingness to contribute wherever needed reflects a strong commitment to the college community.

For more information about the NISOD Excellence Awards, visit www.nisod.org.

Students Recognized in Annual Writing Contest

May 4, 2025 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College students were recently honored for their outstanding work in academic and creative writing through the annual Poetry and Research Writing Contest hosted by the English and Humanities Department.

The contest featured two categories—Research and Poetry—and recognized students whose submissions demonstrated originality, critical thought, and strong writing skills. Winners received cash prizes and will have their work published in the upcoming edition of ECC’s Literary and Art Review.

In the Research category:

  • First Place — Kristen Cook, “Learning Through Listening: Exploring the Legitimacy of Audiobooks in Education” ($100)
  • Second Place — Taylor James, “The Deal with Amtrak and Springfield, Missouri” ($50)
  • Third Place — Reis, “The Luminescent Soul: Gnostic Philosophy, Transgenderism, and Christian Transprejudice” ($25)
  • Honorable Mention — Kendall Krause, “The Story Behind Kendrick Lamar’s Superbowl LIX Halftime Show”

In the Poetry category:

  • First Place — Kenny Jacks, “You are my Sunshine (Veronah’s Poem)” ($100)
  • Second Place — Lauren Hooey, “Five Year Plan” ($50)
  • Third Place — Hope Bratch, “Women at War” ($25)
  • Honorable Mention — Bailey Weber, “A Different Kind of Fairy Tale”

The contest was judged by ECC faculty members John Hardecke and Dr. Aurelia VonTress, who evaluated entries for originality, depth, and technical quality.

The Literary and Art Review, ECC’s annual publication celebrating student creativity, will be released later this spring and will feature these award-winning pieces alongside other selected student work.

For more information about ECC’s English and Humanities Department or the Literary and Art Review, visit www.eastcentral.edu.

Six people stand in front of a blue Missouri Community College Association backdrop. From left to right: Dr. Elizabeth Winters-Rozema, PTK Rolla Advisor; David Harper, Coca-Cola New Century Workforce Scholar; Mae May, All-USA Transfer Pathway Scholar; Latisha Graham, All-USA Transfer Pathway Scholar; Kylie Napier, Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar; and Kevin Dixon, PTK Union Advisor. Several individuals are holding PTK folders and wearing medals. Not pictured are Phillip North and Moriah Mankin, also recognized at the PTK Catalyst convention in Kansas City.

ECC Students Earn Coca-Cola, All-USA Academic Awards

April 21, 2025 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College student Kylie Napier has been named a 2025 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar and awarded a $1,500 scholarship for her academic achievement and leadership. She is one of just 50 students nationwide to earn this prestigious recognition, which is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and administered by the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society.

Kylie Napier, left, has been named a 2025 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar and awarded a $1,500 scholarship for her academic achievement and leadership. She is pictured with ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer.

Napier, a student at ECC’s main campus in Union, was selected based on scores earned in the highly competitive All-USA Academic Team competition, which drew nearly 2,100 applicants nationwide. As a Gold Scholar, she was recognized during the Parade of Scholars at PTK Catalyst, the organization’s annual convention, held April 3–5 in Kansas City, Missouri.

In addition to Napier’s recognition, several other ECC students were named to the All-USA Academic Team and honored by the Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) and PTK for their academic and leadership excellence:

  • David Harper, Union – Coca-Cola New Century Workforce Scholar
  • Phillip North, Union – All-USA Workforce Pathway
  • Latisha Graham, Union – All-USA Transfer Pathway
  • Mae May, Rolla – All-USA Transfer Pathway
  • Moriah Mankin, Rolla – All-USA Transfer Pathway

These students were selected for their outstanding academic records, leadership, and community involvement. ECC annually nominates students from its campuses for the All-USA Team, which automatically qualifies nominees for the All-Missouri Academic Team. Nominees complete a rigorous application process that includes academic achievements, campus and community involvement, and a detailed account of a significant endeavor during their time at ECC.

All-state honorees are recognized at a ceremony sponsored by the MCCA and receive a commemorative medallion and certificate, along with a $250 scholarship funded by the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA).

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation awards nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually to PTK members through the Coca-Cola Academic Team program, celebrating students who are leading the way in their communities and academic programs.

Tip of pen writing on ruled paper

Fall Writing Contest Winners

December 18, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

The East Central College English and Humanities Department has announced the winners of this fall’s Fiction and Creative Non-Fiction Writing Contest.

“Stories, whether they are true or not, can be a kind of nourishment when life looks like a lonely trail,” said Josh Stroup, Assistant Professor and English Department Chair. “The stories that our students shared with us kept our judges full, and we hope to share this bounty with you all in the Spring 2025 edition of the Literary and Art Review.”

The department encourages readers to recognize these students for their dedication to crafting thoughtful and compelling work. While many stories were submitted—and all had something unique to offer—the winners are:

Fiction Winners

First Place — Lauren Hoey’s “Night Shift” — $100
Second Place — Hope Bratch’s “The Classic Chevrolet” — $50
Third Place — Mary Misener’s “The Kingdom of Ozymandias” — $25

Creative Non-Fiction Winners

First Place — Nicole Pope’s “Expanding Limitations” — $100
Second Place — Madeline Johnsen’s “Big Bad Love: Love Drives Purpose” — $50
Third Place — Kaylee Wonder’s “The Twins” — $25

The department extends its gratitude to the contest judges: John Hardecke, Assistant Professor; Linda Barro, Associate Professor; Dr. Aurelia VonTress, Instructor; and Dr. Kami Hancock, instructor.

Additional opportunities to showcase student creativity are on the horizon. The department will announce details for the upcoming Poetry and Research Writing Contests this spring.

ECC Rolla Nursing Students Honored at Pinning Ceremony

December 16, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Three East Central College Rolla graduates from the LPN to RN Bridge program were honored for their exceptional performance in clinical settings and academics.
Morgan Buffington, Savannah Gregory, and Tabitha Martin received recognition on Dec. 10 during the program’s pinning ceremony, which celebrates licensed practical nurses who continued their education to become registered nurses.

This year’s guest speaker was Leslie Crabtree, Clinical Nurse Educator at Mercy Hospital Washington and a Class of 2022 ECC LPN-to-RN graduate.
The ECC Rolla LPN to RN Bridge Class of 2024 includes Priscilla Brandhorst, Kimberly Bridgeman, Morgan Buffington, Savannah Gregory, Caitlin Hughes, Faith Kelley, Tabitha Martin, Samantha Pointer, and Carley Tritch.
Awards of Excellence
As part of the ceremony, graduates were recognized for their outstanding achievements in clinical and academic settings.
• Savannah Gregory received the ECC Outstanding Nursing Student Award, showcasing her commitment, adaptability, and integrity. Savannah has been described as highly organized and determined, excelling in clinical settings and seeking unique learning opportunities. Her preceptor noted that she is a “phenomenal addition” to the nursing profession.


• Tabitha Martin was honored with the Mercy Hospital Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award. Tabitha’s quiet focus and compassionate care have left a lasting impression on clinical staff. Her ability to prioritize patient-centered care with confidence and organizational skill distinguishes her as a future asset to any nursing team.
• Morgan Buffington was recognized with the Phelps Health Spirit of Clinical Excellence Award. Morgan’s dedication to quality, compassionate care and her willingness to embrace challenges were celebrated. Her preceptor described her as a “good team player” who skillfully translates knowledge into practice.

A group photo featuring ECC Rolla Director Christina Ayres, Rolla Police Department Assistant Chief William Loughridge, Phelps County Sheriff Michael P. Kirn, and ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer, standing together with awards in hand. The awards recognize the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department for receiving the 2024 MCCA Business & Industry Award for their collaboration with East Central College in forming the Phelps Law Enforcement Training Center (LETC). An "MCCA" backdrop is visible behind them.

MCCA Business Award Highlights ECC’s Law Enforcement Partnership

November 25, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

In July, eight new certified peace officers graduated from the inaugural class of East Central College’s Phelps Law Enforcement Training Center (LETC), marking the culmination of a partnership between the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, the Rolla Police Department, and East Central College.

The dedication of these law enforcement agencies to building a well-qualified pipeline of peace officers and enhancing public safety earned the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and Rolla Police Department the prestigious 2024 Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) Business & Industry Award, presented at the annual convention in Branson.

The award recognizes the pivotal role these departments have played in the ECC – Phelps Law Enforcement Training Center, a Department of Public Safety Peace Officer Standards and Training Program (POST)-accredited academy designed to meet the region’s demand for law enforcement training.

In 2021, ECC Rolla Director Christina Ayres, Phelps County Sheriff Michael P. Kirn, and Rolla Police Department Assistant Chief William Loughridge began developing a shared vision of a local training center. Their initiative became a reality in January 2023 when the center was officially licensed, and by the following August, the inaugural cohort embarked on their yearlong journey toward becoming licensed peace officers.

“The college would not have been able to solely develop and sustain a law enforcement training program and this essential continuing education pathway for our region without the comprehensive and collaborative support of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the Rolla Police Department,” Ayres said. “This exemplary community partnership fully maximizes ECC’s mission of serving our communities through education.”

The departments not only supported the academy’s development but also contributed significant resources, including facilities, equipment, and ongoing recruitment programs. They provided use of specialized training tools such as the VirTra law enforcement simulator and vehicles for driver training, ensuring students receive high-quality, hands-on instruction.

Their commitment to workforce development has made the training center an indispensable resource for the region, strengthening the pipeline of licensed peace officers while reducing costs and travel burdens for local agencies.

For more information about the program, visit our Law Enforcement program page, or contact LETC@eastcentral.edu or 573-202-6960.

Group of Phi Theta Kappa inductees holding candles and roses during an induction ceremony at Rolla 31 School District, part of East Central College's Rolla campus events.

Rolla Phi Theta Kappa Chapter Welcomes 22 New Members

November 5, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

The Beta Omicron Phi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society at East Central College in Rolla proudly inducted 22 new members this fall.

Lulu McGowan, PTK Heartland Region President, serving as the keynote speaker, stands at a wooden podium with pink hair, addressing an audience. She wears a black, square-necked top and appears focused on delivering her speech. The background includes framed artwork and a Missouri state flag.

Lulu McGowan, PTK Heartland Region President, served as the keynote speaker at the Fall New Member Induction Ceremony held on Oct. 20. Attendees included the 2024-25 PTK Beta Omicron Phi Chapter President Mae May, Rolla PTK advisor Dr. Elizabeth Winters-Rozema, and ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer.

Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for two-year colleges, where members engage in activities reflecting the organization’s hallmarks of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship. To qualify for induction, students must achieve a GPA of at least 3.4 for one semester and maintain a 3.2 GPA thereafter. PTK membership is open to students across all majors, degrees, and certificates.

Students who are eligible but have not yet joined still have the opportunity to do so through the end of the year. For more information about PTK in Rolla, contact Dr. Winters-Rozema at 573-466-4084 or elizabeth.rozema@eastcentral.edu.

The inductees who attended the ceremony were Victoria Parks, Victoria Owens, Carter Hayesk, Nichole Turner, Felicity Taylor, Tabitha Brown, Ciara Lunsford, Shylah Ragan, and Haley Breen.

Inductees not at the event include Hannah O’Connor, Angela Barnes, Viridiana Balbontin, Jonah Bartle, Dylan Brown, Ashton Chambers, Ariana Hoevel, Madison Kossuth, Cynthia McCormick, Harper Rollins, Sofai Tilei, Noah Valkenaar, and Aleksa Vanbladel.

Licensed Practical Nursing students posing during pinning ceremony

Practical Nursing Program Maintains Perfect Pass Rate

October 8, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College’s Practical Nursing (PN) program in Rolla is celebrating another outstanding accomplishment: a perfect 100 percent pass rate on the Summer 2024 licensure exam.

All nine graduates not only passed the exam but also exceeded the state and national average pass rate, further enhancing ECC’s reputation for excellence in nursing education.

This year’s graduates are the second class to complete the PN program under ECC’s sponsorship, following the equally impressive performance of the 2023 cohort, who also achieved a 100 percent pass rate.

The licensure exam, known as the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), is a standardized test that all practical nursing graduates must pass to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN). By earning this certification, graduates are qualified to enter the workforce as LPNs, where they can pursue higher wages and take on greater responsibilities in patient care.

“The success of the 2024 graduates is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and resilience throughout the program,” said Michelle Chick, Practical Nursing Program Director.

“Many of these students balanced demanding work schedules and family responsibilities while completing their studies, which is no small feat,” she added. “The nursing faculty and I are extremely proud of each graduate, and we are confident they will make significant contributions to both the nursing profession and the local community.”

Missouri’s average pass rate for first-time NCLEX-PN test takers in the first half of 2024 is 94.23 percent. Nationally, the year-to-date pass rate stands at 89.82 percent. ECC’s PN graduates not only surpassed these benchmarks but demonstrated exceptional readiness for their future roles as healthcare professionals.

The NCLEX-PN exam evaluates nursing knowledge and skills, ensuring that graduates are competent to provide safe and effective patient care in various healthcare settings. It also tests critical thinking and clinical judgment—skills that are essential for success in the nursing field.

The nine graduates from ECC’s 2024 PN program are:

  • Shelby Pogue
  • Alexandra Ferguson
  • Emma Politte
  • Cassidy Cunningham
  • Jessie Ball
  • Jessica Cook
  • Samantha Roman
  • Katelyn Schafer
  • Brandy Barnes

ECC’s Practical Nursing program is a three-semester, 11-month course that includes hands-on clinical experience. Graduates earn a certificate of completion and are then eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam.

Since taking over sponsorship of the program from the Rolla School District in October 2021, ECC has continued to expand and improve its nursing education offerings. This transition allowed the Rolla School District to concentrate on K-12 education, while ECC focused on enhancing the quality and accessibility of the PN program.

For more information about ECC’s Practical Nursing program, visit www.eastcentral.edu/allied-health/licensed-practical-nursing or contact Nancy Mitchell, Dean of Health Science, at Nancy.Mitchell@eastcentral.edu or 636-584-6619.

Rolla nursing students in blue scrubs standing in front of a brick wall on Clinical Orientation Day.

ECC Rolla Nursing Students Begin Clinicals at St. James Veterans Home

October 6, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College Rolla’s first-year nursing students took a significant step in their healthcare journey during Clinical Orientation Day, held on Sept. 26.

Following this orientation, the students began their clinical rotations on Oct. 1, onsite at the St. James Veterans Home.

Wearing their professional uniforms, these students have officially started their hands-on training, a crucial component of ECC’s nursing program.

Clinicals, conducted at local healthcare facilities like the St. James Veterans Home, provide real-world experience that complements classroom learning and equips students with the skills needed for a successful nursing career.

As they dive into their first semester, these students will gain invaluable experience caring for veterans and applying their knowledge in a real-world setting.

For more information about the ECC Nursing program, visit www.eastcentral.edu/allied-health/nursing, or contact Nancy Mitchell, Director of Nursing and Dean of Health Science, at Nancy.Mitchell@eastcentral.edu.