Featured Article

The Future of Nursing Just Got Stronger

Monday, June 1, 2026

Editor’s Note: This story is part of Ellis in Motion, a new feature highlighting the meaningful work we do each day. From everyday moments to tech breakthroughs, Ellis in Motion celebrates the people and teams who make a difference.

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At a time when healthcare systems nationwide continue to grapple with nursing shortages, 73 graduates from The Belanger School of Nursing are preparing to begin their careers at Ellis, across the Capital Region, and beyond.

Surrounded by family, friends, faculty, and colleagues, the 2026 pinning ceremony and graduation—held last week—recognized not only academic achievement, but also the commitment and resilience required to reach this moment.

In today’s healthcare environment, that milestone carries added significance. The demand for nurses continues to grow nationwide, with workforce shortages impacting healthcare systems across the country. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for registered nurses is expected to remain strong in the years ahead, making each new graduate an important addition to the field.

Jackie Montgomery, Chief Nursing Officer, encouraged graduates to embrace the possibilities ahead, noting:

“The beauty of nursing is that your path is not just one size fits all. You may find your place in mental health, in the Emergency Department, in labor and delivery, or even in education and leadership, or case management… wherever that path leads you, know that you have a home here at Ellis Medicine.”

Throughout the ceremony, that sense of purpose was clear. Nine students earned the Mary Rose Tedesco Martin Award for perfect attendance—an especially notable feat in a program known for long clinical hours, overnight studying, and the constant balancing act between school, work, and family life.

 Students were also recognized as DAISY Award honorees and nominees, highlighting moments of compassionate, patient-centered care during their clinical experiences. Additional scholarships were awarded, recognizing academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to the nursing profession.

Martina Idahosa, a member of the Class of 2026 and this year’s DAISY Award honoree, delivered the graduating address, sharing:

“To my classmates, we did not just get here alone; we encouraged each other, we studied together, we stressed together, and we survived together. We are not just graduates, we are a community, and I am honored to stand among you all.”

Her words resonated across the room, capturing the connection and perseverance that shaped the class’s journey.

This year’s ceremony also marked a transition for The Belanger School of Nursing, as it was the final graduation led by Dean Dawne DeVoe Olbrych. Under her leadership, the program has seen substantial growth—including more Ellis colleagues enrolling in the school and an increasing number of graduates choosing to begin their careers at Ellis. In partnership with Human Resources at Ellis Medicine, these efforts have helped strengthen a vital pipeline of future nurses.

As part of the celebration, the Class of 2026 also presented Dean Olbrych with an award recognizing 25 years of service in nursing and her lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the profession.

A new chapter will begin this fall as Siobhan Hecox, DNP, FNP-BC, RN, currently an instructor at The Belanger School of Nursing, steps into the role of Dean, continuing the school’s commitment to preparing future generations of nurses.

As they move forward, the Class of 2026 is preparing to take the next step toward licensure and begin their careers in patient care settings across the Capital Region and beyond, entering the field at a time when their skills and compassion are needed more than ever.

 

Ellis Medicine | Newsroom

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