The Washburn School of Nursing hosted the second “Light the Lamp” ceremony Aug. 29 at 5:30 p.m. The cermony took place in White Concert Hall, where 75 men and women were inducted into the Washburn Nursing Program.

“For the past 20 years, schools of medicine have had a ceremony to induct the men and women into medical school,” said Monica Scheibmeir, dean of the school of nursing.

Three years ago, a major nursing organization decided that nursing school should have a similar induction ceremony. The School of Nursing received a grant from the Arnold P. Gold foundation, which made the Light the Lamp ceremony possible.

“We just want to welcome students to the program and give their parents the chance to be proud. We also wanted the students to have the chance to be proud of themselves for getting into a nursing program.” Scheibmeir said.

The ceremony is named after Florence Nightingale, who is considered the founder of modern nursing. She spent her night shifts helping wounded people during the Crimean War. She did her work at these times by lamp light, which gave her the nickname “Lady of the Lamp.”

This symbolizes how health care professionals have to dedicate their lives to enhancing the lives of others.

“I’m still getting used to everything. It’s fun, but confusing. I can’t wait to be part of the nursing program.” said Chasity Smith, an incoming nursing student.

The ceremony also both shows the inductees what they should expect, and who they will be working during their time in the nursing program.