As 23-year-old Tyler McCallister reached his chair on the First United Methodist Church altar, his eyes scanned the crowded sanctuary. He was searching for the woman whose stability and lifelong support led him to pursue a career in nursing and graduation day was finally here.
For McCallister, completion of the Technical Career Center Practical Nurse Program was more than just a stepping stone for furthering his education. It was a tribute to his grandmother, Lenor Bell, who 22 years earlier graduated from the same program.
Bell said at just a few months old, McCallister often sat on her lap during homework sessions. She said her infant grandson was there every step of the way and even attended her graduation ceremony in 1995. She was in attendance at his, of course, and was honored to place McCallister's nursing pin on his chest during the ceremony.
"There is even a picture of me as a baby in the 1994-95 yearbook," McCallister added with a smile.
The night was not only special to McCallister and Bell, but to all 24 students from the 74th and final graduating class of the TCC Practical Nurse Program, sponsored by the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District since 1957.
Per an April decision by the Poplar Bluff R-1 Board of Education, support for the program ceased due to various obstacles throughout recent years. Prior to the board's decision, it was determined Three Rivers College would gain sponsorship of a similar program to ensure the training of practical nurses continue in Poplar Bluff.
For individuals who were intertwined with the public school's practical nurse program, the June 30 graduation ceremony served as a final and emotional dedication to the nearly 2,000 nurses whose careers began at TCC.
"We (had) something unique students won't be able to find anywhere else," Program Director Ruth Hutcheson said. "We (were) always willing to take the extra time to help students achieve their goals."
Hutcheson said since the announcement to close the program, she has felt a range of emotions, including worry and concern for prospective students.
"Our admission criteria (was) generous and I wonder 'will those students still have the same chances they had here,'" Hutcheson continued. "One of the best feelings is working with a student and seeing the look in their eyes when they finally get it."
Hutcheson will continue to work for Poplar Bluff R-1 at TCC. Meanwhile, instructor Debi Dancer will revisit her retirement.
"I retired the first time in 2012," Dancer said. "I left for two years and came back to fill in and here I still am."
Dancer first hired on with TCC in 1989 and is a familiar face for many nurses within the community. Dancer said she has worked with generations of family members, including McCallister and Bell, and said the program's final year was a roller coaster.
"My emotions have gone from pride to sadness," she said. "Our students are amazing. Many of them come to us with no background and go on to more advanced careers in the nursing field."
McCallister said the camaraderie felt among his classmates was unequivocal. The 50-week program means students all but surrender their lives until graduation day. Michaela Everhart carpooled with McCallister and Brittany Miller from Piedmont, Mo., each day.
"(Our instructors) were very accommodating and supportive. They put in many late nights with me," she said.
Everhart touched on her personal struggles and said the teachers at TCC provided a safe and warm environment, much like a family.
McCallister said many of this year's graduates plan on continuing their education in the nursing field. He said he plans to attend Southeast Missouri State University in hopes of becoming a registered nurse. For others, passing the test to become a licensed practical nurse is an acceptable resting point to catch their breath.
Patricia Wright of Dexter, Mo., decided to pursue her LPN certification after a career in home health. The 46-year-old said she felt it was time for a change and was inspired when her boss suggested she sign up for the nursing program.
Wright was the only student to earn perfect attendance and as a result, was selected by Hutcheson to lead her fellow graduates in reciting the Practical Nurse Pledge during the ceremony.
"Trish is someone who represents what an LPN should be. She has a good clear voice and it was a way to reward her for the perfect attendance," Hutcheson said.
McCallister was sure to point out that Wright was the mom of the group, further supporting the family-like dynamic of the program.
Along with school board member and longtime supporter of R-1's practical nurse program Dr. Cynthia Brown, Superintendent Scott Dill was in attendance.
Dill said he was there to show support on behalf of himself and the administration. He said the district as a whole is "tremendously proud" of the graduating students.
"This is a storied program for the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District, and although we are now passing the baton to Three Rivers College, it's important for the community to realize this program is going to continue to flourish and to thrive and to provide highly qualified individuals to service our health care needs in the Poplar Bluff region," he said.
As the ceremony came to an end, tears were shed in bittersweet sentiment. Though last week's ceremony was the end of the 60-year TCC Practical Nurse Program (during its early existence, the program graduated two classes per year), it also marked a fresh beginning for a new generation of caregivers and an exciting endeavor for Three Rivers College.