Cameral Allen holds a lit candle during the Alcorn State University School of Nursing pinning ceremony Thursday in Natchez. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

The class of 2018 nursing students sit together during their pinning ceremony Thursday at Alcorn State University in Natchez. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

The class of 2018 nursing pins sit on stage during their pinning ceremony Thursday at Alcorn State University in Natchez. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

(Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Jerica Nichols, wipes a tear from her eye Thursday during the pinning ceremony for the class of 2018 School of nursing at Alcorn State University in Natchez. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Dr. Ira Sewell gives a hug to Iris Lee as she receives her nursing pin Thursday at Alcorn State University Natchez Campus. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Marion Stewart reflects on how their class grew and learned together during the pinning ceremony for the 2018 nursing students Thursday at Alcorn State University Natchez. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

The class of 2018 nursing students stand before receiving their pins Thursday at Alcorn State University in Natchez. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Ophelia Fleming and Jasmine Floyd walk up onstage to receive their nursing pins Thursday at Alcorn State University Natchez Campus. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Chrishawna Griffin, Kierra Gardner, show off their pins Thursday at the Alcorn State University School of Nursing Pinning Ceremony at the Natchez Campus. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

(Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

(Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)