ATLANTA (January 11, 2016) | A memorial ceremony was held today at the Georgia State Capitol in remembrance of five student nurses from Georgia Southern University who were killed in a tragic car accident in April 2015 near Savannah. The students were en route to their final clinical rotation of the school year when a tractor-trailer crashed into the two SUV’s carrying the women. Sen. Renee Unterman (R – Buford) welcomed attendees to the ceremony, which featured remarks from the Honorable Gov. Nathan Deal, First Lady Sandra Deal and Lt. Governor Casey Cagle.
“It’s heartbreaking to know these students passed away while pursuing a profession that is near and dear to my own heart. These young women were tragically taken far too soon, and it was an honor to recognize the dedication and spirit shown by these young women as they studied to become part of the medical community,” said Sen. Unterman.
“It was an honor to take part in today’s memorial service to celebrate the life of five amazing young women – each pursuing their dream of becoming a nurse. I want to express my sincere condolences to their families and friends as they continue to grieve and reflect on their treasured memories. My family prays for their strength through this difficult time,” said Lt. Governor Casey Cagle.
During the ceremony, the Nightingale Pledge was recited by all nurses in attendance and a poem was read by Emily McGuire, president of the Georgia Southern University Student Nurses Association. The pledge and poem were included as a reminder of the commitment shown by the young women during their studies, and also by all who work in the profession. Dr. Sharon Radzyminski, Professor and Chair of the School of Nursing at Georgia Southern University, also offered remarks during the ceremony.
Memorial gifts were presented to the surviving family members of the young women. These gifts included engraved holograms of the late daughter for each family, a memorial candle, and a treasure box that included a special note from every member within the Women’s Legislative Caucus.
The ceremony was made possible with assistance from the Georgia General Assembly’s Women’s Caucus, the Georgia Board of Nursing, the Georgia Nursing Association and the Georgia Hospital Association.
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For Immediate Release:
January 11, 2016
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Jennifer.yarber@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028