By Faith Skierkowski, Editor
During the 2020-21 academic year, Saint Leo University officially launched its first-ever Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The university is now celebrating a major milestone: its inaugural graduating class. Commencement is set for Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa.
The Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Health Promotion was Saint Leo University’s first program related to nursing. In 2021, the university expanded its health sciences offerings with the launch of two new programs: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and an online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy.
Over their four years at Saint Leo University, these 12 resilient, compassionate, and well-rounded nursing students received a high-quality education and built lasting connections with their peers and faculty.
Graduate Brenna Reinhard reflected on her experience, saying, “Being part of the first Saint Leo Nursing cohort has been an incredibly unique and rewarding experience. There was something really special about growing alongside the program. We had the chance to help shape the culture and set the tone for future nursing classes. It wasn’t always easy—there were definitely growing pains—but the sense of community, support, and dedication from the faculty made a huge difference. I felt seen, heard, and truly supported, both academically and personally.”
Saint Leo University aims to equip its graduates with the knowledge and experience needed to enter the workforce at a time when the demand for skilled nurses is at an all-time high.
The university prides itself on remaining true to its core values—something graduate Brenna Reinhard believes truly sets Saint Leo apart.
“What sets Saint Leo apart is the emphasis on values—especially compassion, integrity, and community,” she said. “It’s not just about becoming a skilled nurse; it’s about becoming a whole person who leads with empathy and purpose.”
This small, close-knit class of nursing graduates is prepared to serve the community with compassion, while also being eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN (National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses).
Dr. Kathleen Van Eerden, dean of the College of Health Professionals at Saint Leo and a registered nurse, says this group of graduates stands out for their hands-on training.
“This nursing cohort was the first to engage in Dedicated Education Units, or specific hospital units for Saint Leo nursing students only, at AdventHealth where they were matched and worked alongside registered nurses. This model provided opportunity for students to collaborate with nurse mentors and work with several patients, providing them with rich, real-world clinical experience.”
In February 2025, Saint Leo University celebrated the grand opening of a new state-of-the-art nursing space on the second floor of Benedictine Hall. The renovation of 2,158 square feet of the 4,256-square-foot facility underscores the university’s commitment to providing the highest level of education for future nurses. Students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in lab work, simulation, preceptorships, and clinical healthcare experiences across a variety of settings.
On Monday, May 5, 2025, in the Greenfelder-Denlinger Boardrooms at the Student Community Center, these seniors will participate in a pinning ceremony to mark their graduation from Saint Leo University’s inaugural nursing program.
This graduating class of nurses exemplifies Saint Leo University’s commitment to developing competent, compassionate, and community-focused healthcare professionals!
