From First Class to First Careers: Galen Las Vegas Graduates Step Into Nursing Futures

After graduation, many students start to figure out what their next steps in life will be. On Friday, Galen College of Nursing’s Las Vegas campus hosted its graduation ceremony for its first class.

As the ceremony began, two students sitting in the audience already knew what their future would hold after becoming the first graduates from Las Vegas to accept a job with HCA Healthcare’s New Graduate Residency program.

Throughout their time at Galen, Caitlin Pascal and Dorian Thrower were known around campus for bringing positive and compassionate energy wherever they go. When it came to accepting their job offers, their mentors and instructors said it didn’t come as a surprise.

“As student ambassadors, Dorian and Caitlin led with compassion, integrity, and excellence. Watching them begin their nursing careers fills us with pride, and we are excited for the many lives they will touch through their work,” said Dr. Bobbi Handy, the dean of Galen’s Las Vegas campus.

Pascal accepted a job at HCA Healthcare’s Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas. There she will be starting her career in the pediatric ER. Thrower will be heading to Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas.

“I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to begin my career in the pediatric ER as a new graduate nurse. It means so much to be able to care for children and their families in such a fast paced and meaningful environment while continuing to grow both personally and professionally,” Pascal said.

Both Pascal and Thrower spent their time at Galen as campus ambassadors, inspiring the next generation of nurses walking through the doors of the Las Vegas campus. Although the pair both worked diligently at their studies, their instructors say it goes further than that.

“As graduates of Galen College of Nursing’s inaugural ADN cohort, they have grown into confident, compassionate professionals. Both Caitlin and Dorian consistently demonstrate a deep commitment to caring for others, qualities they will now bring to the bedside,” said Melissa Fletcher, Pascal and Thrower’s instructor.

Pascal and Thrower’s achievements highlight the success of Galen’s hands-on, student-centered approach and signal a promising future for healthcare in the Las Vegas community. As they step into their roles and begin making a difference in the lives of patients and families, they carry with them the pride of being trailblazers, setting a standard for those who will follow in their footsteps for years to come.

Ready to take the first step toward a meaningful and rewarding career in nursing?

Whether you’re just beginning your journey or ready to advance your education, Galen College of Nursing can help you get there.

Pre‑licensure program options at Galen include a Practical Nursing (PN/VN) program, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), an ADN Bridge pathways for licensed practical or vocational nurses ready to advance their careers, and a three‑year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Apply now to start on your nursing path at Galen!