Thornton challenges graduates

By the Public Relations staff
of Hannibal-LaGrange
College

Dr. James L. Thornton, M.D., F.A.A.P., was the keynote speaker for the Hannibal-LaGrange College Evelyn Scarborough Linebury Nursing Program pinning ceremony on Friday evening, May 2, in the Parker Theatre of the Roland Fine Arts Center.
Seating was at a premium in the Parker Theatre as family, friends, HLG administrators, trustees, faculty, and staff gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of HLG nursing students. Thornton stood before the packed auditorium, graciously thanked the HLG administration and faculty for the invitation, and then challenged and encouraged the HLG nursing graduates.  “You are called to nurse. You are called to nurture. Do the right thing,” said Thornton.
Thornton paid tribute to seasoned nurses who had “nursed” him with instruction and encouragement to be the physician he is today. Thornton credited nurses, who during his medical training helped him develop clinical and technical skills. In his closing remarks, Thornton welcomed the associate’s class to the medical field.  “Welcome to healthcare, may you nurture well.  Just remember - do the right thing.”
Thornton, a pediatric physician at the Hannibal Clinic, also serves as an adjunct professor for the HLG Nursing Program. Thornton attended medical school at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, and completed his residency at The Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. He is board certified through the American Board of Pediatrics.
Student presidents of the first- and second-year classes addressed the audience and shared challenges, achievements,and fond memories from the past year. Krista Masterson, president of the first-year nursing class, shared a humorous list of differences between college students and nursing students. “College students can share the events of their day over dinner, nursing students cannot.” 
Angela Thomas, president of the second-year class, smiled as she remarked on the end of their two-year journey as nursing students, “It’s finally here.” Thomas shared her personal thoughts regarding the nursing profession. “I believe that nursing is a calling God has placed on my life.” She read the scriptures Matthew 25: 35-36, where Jesus instructs his disciples to care for the hungry, the naked, and the imprisoned of society.  “It’s more than a career, it is a ministry,” continued Thomas. “We can show the love of Christ through action and words.”
Fourteen out of 28 first-year students received a decorative pin for their accomplishments of being promoted to their second year, and 17 second-year students received their official nursing pin and graduated on Saturday, May 3, with their associate’s degree. 
Other special awards and scholarships included:
MLN Outstanding Nursing Student – Aimee Alton
HLG Nursing Division Faculty Award – Aimee Alton
Clinical Achievement Award – Kim Yoder
Northeast Missouri Medical Society Award – Kim Huddleston
Mother Dennis Outstanding Nursing Student Award – Katie Osmak and Nicole Rouse
Della Faye Martinson Scholarship – Tori Garr
Paul Finley and Louise Brown Forman Memorial Nursing Scholarship – Sarah Wittland