Mega Doctor News
By Roberto Hugo González / Mega Doctor News / Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas — Mariam Hammad, Chief Nursing Officer at DHR Health, encouraged graduates of the Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program to approach nursing with compassion and commitment during remarks at the program’s fourth graduation ceremony held in partnership with Rio Grande Valley College.
The ceremony recognized three graduates and celebrated the continued growth of the apprenticeship program, which was created to address the regional nursing shortage through an “earn while you learn” model. Speakers included healthcare leaders, educators, local officials, and community partners who addressed graduates as they prepared to begin careers in nursing.
Addressing graduates, Hammad described nursing as a profession centered on care and service. “Nursing is more than a profession,” Hammad said. “It is a healing touch and a compassionate courage and service.”
She told graduates that patient care involves more than technical knowledge and clinical training. “When you step into these roles, always remember you are giving the patient not only the skills you learn, but you are giving them that special touch, the reassurance, the compassion,” Hammad said. “You’re present for them in their hardest moment is something that will last forever with them.”
Hammad, with more than 40 years of experience in clinical nursing, spoke about the demands of the profession and the long hours nurses often work. She said family support and workplace relationships help nurses continue through difficult schedules and responsibilities.
“You will be working day shift, night shift, 12-hour shift, long hours,” Hammad said. “But the support of your families and the staff you are working with will encourage you to continue.”
She also told graduates that patient interactions often provide motivation during difficult moments in healthcare settings. “The smile on your patient’s face will make you continue to do what you do because you are a special person,” Hammad said. “Nurses are special.”
Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hammad said public awareness of the nursing profession increased during a time of healthcare strain. “During the COVID time, it was very clear, the need for the nurses,” she said.
Hammad encouraged graduates to take pride in completing the apprenticeship program and entering a profession she described as trusted. She said their hands-on clinical training at DHR Health would shape their patient care.
“You did your clinical hours with our patient. Not in a stimulation lab,” Hammad said. “It will make a difference.”
She also recognized families, mentors, faculty, and DHR Health staff who supported graduates throughout their training. “This is the first step in your journey,” Hammad said. “You are in the most trusted, respected profession in the world. Congratulations.”
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