Bound by compassion and guided by faith, 289 future Ignatian nurses of Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) marked a significant milestone in their journey toward the healthcare profession as the AdZU College of Nursing (CON) honored its graduating students through the 46th Pin and Ring Ceremony held on May 20, 2026, at the Convention Hall of Astoria Regency in Pasonanca.
The ceremony recognized the students’ years of academic preparation, clinical training, and holistic formation as they prepare to serve communities within and beyond the city as future healthcare professionals grounded in the Ignatian tradition.
The program opened with an interfaith prayer gathering composed of a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Vice President for Higher Education Rev. Fr. Rene C. Tacastacas, SJ, and a Du’a led by Muslim Affairs Coordinator Datu Akmad H. Duran, reflecting the University’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for diverse faith traditions within the community.
In his homily, Fr. Tacastacas reminded the graduating students to remain anchored in their vocation and faith as they enter the profession.
“Stay rooted in what is true. Stay rooted in God. You entered nursing because somewhere in your heart, you wanted to care, to heal, to comfort, to serve life. Never, never lose that original grace,” Fr. Tacastacas shared. “Remember that every patient is more than a chart, a diagnosis, or a room number. Behind every bed is a human story,” he added.
During the keynote message, University President Fr. Guillrey Anthony “Ernald” M. Andal, SJ, emphasized the importance of excellence rooted in compassionate service.
“Service that is both competent and compassionate is always tough. That’s why our education at Ateneo has to be rigorous. You cannot be spoiled to excellence. You have to go through difficulties to train you to become excellent. And in Ateneo, we know that God sees that kind of excellence in your service, not merely as fulfilling a job or a duty. It is glorifying God and humbly offering our very best so that another person may be made better,” Fr. Ernald said.
The ceremony continued with the Pin and Ring Ceremony proper, symbolizing the students’ readiness to embrace the responsibilities of the nursing profession with competence, compassion, and integrity. More than a rite of passage, the ceremony serves as a reminder of their commitment to upholding the dignity of every person they serve and to becoming instruments of healing, hope, and positive change in their respective communities.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Batch President Mikaella T. Dionio reflected on the journey shared by the future nurses and the values they hope to carry into the profession.
“The dreams we once spoke about are now becoming reality. May we continue to carry the heart of service, passion to heal, and the courage to persevere wherever this profession may lead us. May we all do these things with competence, courage, and most importantly, a compassionate heart,” Dionio stated.
The program also included the presentation of awards led by the College of Nursing Dean, the Nightingale Pledge led by NAO Governor-elect Francis Duane Ramon S. Cabato, and the induction of the graduates into the Ateneo Nursing Organization led by its President Maria Pinky B. Saavedra, RN, PhD
More than a rite of passage, the Pin and Ring Ceremony served as a meaningful affirmation of the students’ commitment to uphold the dignity of every person they serve and to become instruments of healing, hope, and positive change in their respective communities.
