Herzing University Celebrates Akron Nursing Graduates at Spring 2026 Pinning Ceremony

As Ohio continues to face a critical demand for qualified nurses, Herzing University Akron is helping build the local pipeline of compassionate, skilled healthcare professionals. On Friday, May 7, Herzing honored 32 nursing graduates at its Spring 2026 Pinning Ceremony at the John S. Knight Center. The pinning ceremony is a time-honored tradition, a symbol of their commitment to patient care and the nursing profession. 

This spring’s class joins more than 1,306 graduates statewide who have earned their degrees from Herzing University to date, with the majority of Herzing alumni staying and working in Ohio and strengthening the local talent pipeline.

“Every student who earned their pin is a story of hard work, resilience and a commitment to caring for others,” said Jeff Hill, Regional Vice President of Operations–Midwest. “A Herzing education expands beyond the classroom – our graduates enter the workforce with practical skills, ready to make a difference in their communities.” 

Herzing University-Akron provides a career-focused nursing education through a flexible online and hybrid learning model built around connecting non-traditional students – including career changers, working adults and first-generation students – to clinical settings with local healthcare partners. By combining real-world clinical experience with rigorous coursework, graduates step into essential healthcare roles with the hands-on experience and professional foundation needed in Ohio’s healthcare workforce. 

“Looking back, I am grateful that I chose Herzing University as the launching pad for my nursing career,” said Keyanna Schultz, a Practical Nursing Program student in Akron who is graduating this semester. “The coursework sharpened my clinical skills and Herzing’s faculty was invested in my growth within the profession. What stood out to me was how supportive my instructors and peers were, fully equipping me with the skills to step into the workforce.”

“Herzing students who come through our doors bring a level of dedication that stands out,” said Cassie Prater, Talent Sourcing Specialist at Aultman Health System. “We value our partnership with Herzing University and are proud to support the next generation of nurses who will serve and strengthen our communities.”

Herzing University is proud to graduate approximately 800 new nurses this spring commencement season, adding to the total of 12,000 nurses who have graduated over its 60-year history. This milestone reinforces the university’s role in providing skilled healthcare professionals to meet the nation’s urgent demand. With 12 campuses nationwide and an accessible online division, Herzing is committed to serving nontraditional students and adult learners with more than 40 programs from diploma to doctorate level.

For more information about Herzing University’s Akron campus and its nursing programs, visit www.herzing.edu.

About Herzing University

Herzing University is an accredited, private nonprofit institution with 12 campuses across the country and a nationally accessible online division. The university offers career-focused programs in nursing, healthcare, technology, business and public safety. Herzing is committed to serving nontraditional and adult learners through flexible on-campus, hybrid and online learning options, workforce-aligned programming and strong industry partnerships that support the healthcare pipeline. Ranked among the best online programs since 2013, Herzing empowers students with accessible, career-driven education. Learn more at www.herzing.edu.