On December 9, soon-to-be graduates of the BU Wheelock Child Life & Family-Centered Care graduate program joined faculty in a virtual pinning celebration marking the end of their studies.

The students, who began their graduate studies in the Fall of 2019, typically attend an in-person pinning before graduating in January. With the onset of COVID-19 last spring, the program adapted that ceremony into a virtual gathering so that family and friends could join as well.

“The members of this graduate cohort completed their coursework and clinical internships during COVID-19 with passion and dedication in providing child life services to children and families in the community,” says Claire White, senior lecturer and program director. “We are extremely proud of them and believe they will be outstanding child life specialists!”

The January 2021 graduates include: Olivia Brooks, Alexandra Charron, Courtney Jonas, Catya Kurban, Caitlin McGowan, Jessica Mueller, Kyra Murdoch, Alexandra Smith, and Rachel Trombi.

Below, check out a video of the ceremony (created by graduate Rachel Trombi) and a collection of photos (courtesy of Alyssa Sachs and Caitlin McGowan). View the program book here.