Cecil College celebrates Nursing Class of 2026

NORTH EAST, Md: Cecil College celebrated the achievements of its Nursing Class of 2026 during a pinning ceremony held Friday, May 15, at the Milburn Stone Theatre on the College’s North East Campus, recognizing 29 graduates who completed the program’s rigorous academic and clinical training.

In opening remarks, Dr. Nancy Norman-Marzella, Dean of Health, Human, and Business Sciences at Cecil College, highlighted the program’s longstanding impact on regional healthcare.

“For more than four decades, Cecil College’s nursing program has played a vital role in meeting the healthcare needs of Cecil County and the surrounding communities,” said Dr. Norman-Marzella. “Our graduates continue to distinguish themselves through their work as clinicians, educators, and contributors to nursing research. We are proud to educate and prepare the next generation of nurses who will serve our community with skill and compassion.”

According to the Maryland Board of Nursing, Cecil College has consistently ranked among Maryland’s highest-performing nursing schools, with an average pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) of 97.02 percent since 2020. This includes perfect pass rates in 2022 and 2024.

“Community College nursing programs are critical to meeting the workforce need for nurses in Maryland. Such an outstanding pass rate indicates that Cecil College is preparing nurses to meet the challenges of today’s healthcare environment,” said Cecil College President Dr. Mary Way Bolt.

Cecil College’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program, approved by the Maryland State Board of Nursing, earned renewed accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) in May 2024. The peer-review process evaluates nursing programs against rigorous standards for quality, accountability, and relevance in professional practice. The accreditation remains valid through fall 2031.

Graduates of Cecil College’s nursing program pursue careers across a wide range of healthcare settings, including critical care, surgical services, and home healthcare. Many also continue their education by pursuing advanced nursing degrees.

As healthcare workforce needs continue to grow across Maryland and the region, Cecil College remains committed to preparing highly skilled nurses to serve their communities. Learn more about Cecil College’s nursing program by visiting cecil.edu.

www.cecil.edu