Celebrate the graduation of a mother-daughter team from nursing school.
Graduation day is a moment filled with joy and a sense of accomplishment. We can’t help but feel proud of ourselves when we cross the stage in front of our loved ones. But graduation day meant far more to one remarkable mother-daughter pair. Together, they completed the registered nurse program at East Carolina University, which is an incredibly amazing accomplishment.
A mother and daughter from the same family received their graduation gowns in an extraordinary and historic occasion. Recognized by the institution for their outstanding accomplishment, this mother-daughter combo has been creating headlines right from the start.
Jessica Van Wagenen and her daughter Keelin were frequently confused for sisters at first glance. “They initially thought we were sisters, and I had to clarify that I was the mother and we were working together,” Jessica says with fondness as she remembers the incident. This charismatic couple demonstrates that it’s never too late to follow your goals and forge close relationships via similar experiences.
Jessica Van Wagenen, a former marine who is now retired, took the noble decision to postpone her aspirations in order to raise her daughters. “We were always on the move, and their dad was in and out of the picture, so I always believed that the children needed stability,” the woman said in defense of her decision. Jessica made the decision to put her family’s needs ahead of her own by skipping college and giving her kids more security.

Jessica and Keelin have recently started their jobs as nurses. Keelin works as a pediatric nurse at ECU Health, while Jessica follows her calling as an operating room nurse for Carteret Healthcare. They treasure the special time they had together and carry the memories of their joint nursing school journey with them every day.
Looking back on their time in nursing school, Jessica and Keelin both say how happy they are to be able to share their experiences. It’s really enjoyable. It’s really great to be able to share it with my daughter, Jessica said, laughing deeply. Keelin mirrored her views, noting, “It feels refreshing. While other people traveled with their siblings or significant others, my mom and I went. Together, their familial ties and same goals have created a beautiful and successful mosaic that will always unite this mother and daughter.
It is incredibly touching to observe this remarkable pair’s commitment and tenacity. Together, let’s encourage Jessica and Keelin as they start their careers in the healthcare industry. We can inspire people to pursue their dreams and share joy by telling this encouraging story.
Why don’t you act sooner? Spread the word about this endearing tale to encourage kindness and tenacity among our neighbors!