Caps Off to These Inaugural Galen College Graduates 

This summer marks a historic milestone for Galen College of Nursing, as six campuses celebrate the graduation of their first student cohorts. From Florida to Utah, inaugural Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and two-year Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs have reached the finish line. Each one signals the start of something greater: lives changed, goals achieved, and careers in compassionate care just beginning. 

Among these milestone moments, the Dallas campus is celebrating an especially notable achievement: its first BSN graduates achieved a 100% NCLEX pass rate.  It’s a powerful testament to the caliber of Galen College’s curriculum, the dedication of its faculty, and the hard work of each individual student.

“Seeing the first BSN graduates from Dallas and Houston cross the stage is a powerful reminder of why I do this work—to help change lives for the better. Not just in the lives of these specific graduates, but also in the lives they will now touch. It makes me incredibly proud of my teams and these graduates to see how much they’ve accomplished,” said Dr. Tara Dailey, Regional Dean of Galen’s Texas campuses

This isn’t just a campus victory—it’s a community one. Every graduate who walks across the stage is prepared to walk into a hospital or clinic where their skills are needed, their compassion welcomed, and their presence deeply felt.

The Galen College of Nursing Houston campus, Gainesville campus, and Sarasota campus are joining Dallas in celebrating their own inaugural BSN graduates. These accomplishments speak to the hard work and determination of the students, as well as the unwavering support of faculty and staff who have guided them every step of the way. Their stories are a testament to resilience and drive.

“These graduations are more than moments of celebration — they represent the heart of our mission in action,” said Dr. Audria Denker, Chief Experience Officer. “We are proud of our students’ achievements and inspired by the growth of our campuses. As Galen continues to expand, our commitment remains the same: to prepare compassionate, skilled nurses who will make a lasting impact on the communities they serve.” 

From clinical excellence to personal transformation, these inaugural classes have set a powerful precedent for the students who will follow in their footsteps.

Two more Galen College campuses in Wichita and Salt Lake City recently celebrated the graduation of their first two-year ADN cohorts. These students are pioneers in every sense of the word, laying the foundation for future cohorts while breaking barriers in their own lives. Lauren Arnett, an ADN graduate in Wichita, says she’s proud to have completed a journey that began in 2017. 

“I worked night shift, so it wasn’t easy. But I’m glad we’re here today. And I’m glad I didn’t quit—because there were a lot of times I wanted to,” said Arnett.

Lauren’s story echoes the strength and perseverance found in so many Galen students. For many, the path to nursing has been anything but traditional—filled with personal challenges, long hours, and countless sacrifices. But through it all, they pressed on.

Now, as these graduates embark on their professional journeys, they leave Galen College of Nursing with more than clinical knowledge. They carry forward a deep sense of purpose, sharpened by every obstacle they’ve overcome, every late-night study session and exam passed, and every patient they’ve learned from.

Each graduate represents the start of a ripple effect—one that will extend into hospitals, clinics, and communities across the country. The lives they’ve changed already include their own—but soon, they’ll touch many more.

Congratulations to Galen’s inaugural graduating classes. May this be the first of many chapters in a life of learning, leading, and caring.

If you’re inspired by these stories and feel called to make a difference through nursing, Galen College of Nursing is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the field or ready to take the next step in your career, we invite you to learn more. Submit a request for information today and take the first step toward a future in compassionate care.