AUK College of Nursing Hosts 3rd Annual Capping, Candle Lighting, and White Coat Ceremony

On February 22, 2025, the American University of Kurdistan (AUK) College of Nursing celebrated its 3rd Annual Capping, Candle Lighting, and White Coat Ceremony, marking 20 nursing students’ transition to clinical training. Family, friends, and AUK community members gathered in the University’s auditorium to honor their achievements.

This year’s theme, “Voices of Healing: Amplifying the Call to Care, Lead, and Shape the Future of Nursing,” highlighted the College’s dedication to compassionate care and leadership. Traditional elements included capping, symbolizing professional entry; candle lighting, representing patient dedication; and donning white coats, signifying clinical readiness.

Ms. Maria Soldner, Project Manager at ACORN, delivered an inspiring keynote on the critical roles of compassion and communication in improving nursing care. Dr. Jervy Bernardino, Dean of the College of Nursing, emphasized: “To drive change in nursing, we must honor traditions that instill pride, dignity, and respect in future nurses.”

This milestone event reaffirmed AUK’s commitment to preparing skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals poised for leadership in the nursing field.

Inaugural Nursing Capping, Candle Lighting, and White Coat Ceremony at AUK