Mega Doctor News
By Roberto Hugo González / Mega Doctor News / Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas — Dan Diaz encouraged graduates of the DHR Health Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program to support one another and share knowledge as they begin their nursing careers during remarks at the program’s fourth graduation ceremony held in partnership with Rio Grande Valley College.
Diaz, who was recognized during the event as an Edinburg City Council member, nurse, and veteran, addressed graduates as part of a ceremony recognizing three new nurses and celebrating, organizers said, what brings the program’s total graduates to 43. The apprenticeship program was created to address the regional nursing shortage through an “earn while you learn” model that combines classroom instruction with clinical experience.
Speaking to the graduates, Diaz focused on professional growth and teamwork within healthcare settings. He encouraged new nurses to avoid keeping knowledge to themselves and instead help strengthen those around them.
“Don’t be the type of nurse that learns something and keeps it to themselves to be better,” Diaz said. “If you learn something, spread the knowledge.”
Diaz said collaboration and mentorship are important in nursing, where patient care often depends on teams working together. He told graduates that helping colleagues develop skills benefits the profession as a whole.
“My thing was to make the people around me strong so that we can all be strong,” Diaz said.
The ceremony included remarks from healthcare leaders, educators, local officials, and community partners. Graduates participated in a white coat and stole presentation and received recognition alongside their preceptors. The event also included a proclamation from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott recognizing Apprenticeship Week.
Organizers said the nurse apprenticeship program continues to provide a pathway for students to train and work simultaneously while preparing for nursing licensure. During the event, speakers recognized graduates for completing the program and offered guidance as they enter the healthcare workforce.
Diaz concluded his remarks by encouraging graduates to carry forward a mindset of service and shared learning as they begin caring for patients and working alongside fellow healthcare professionals.
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