Pinning Ceremony Marks Rite of Passage for 18 New Paramedics
Family and friends filled the Union Avenue Campus of 91视频 Tennessee Community
College on Aug. 8 for the 2025 Emergency Medical Techs (EMT) Pinning Ceremony, themed
�Life Under the Lights.� The event celebrated 18 graduates as they took the next step toward becoming paramedics
and honored the support systems that helped them succeed.
Bartlett Fire Department EMS Chief Justin McNeely delivered the keynote address, reminding graduates that their careers will require more than technical skill � it will take leading with empathy in a demanding profession.
淵ou檙e not just graduates today,� McNeely said. 淵ou檙e the future of EMS. Every time you step onto that ambulance, you檙e given a unique opportunity to positively impact someone檚 life.�
McNeely, a graduate of the same program, stressed that while mastering procedures
like IV placements and drug calculations is essential, empathy is what defines great
providers.
淭his job is about more than IV placements and drug calculations,� he said. 淭hose skills are critical, but it檚 your compassion that will truly make you extraordinary. You檙e not just providing medical care � you檙e advocates for your patients and pillars of your community. Embrace that responsibility with pride, integrity and humility.�
McNeely acknowledged the emotional toll of the profession, cautioning graduates against becoming hardened by stress and trauma. He encouraged them to lean on their families and faith for support, maintain their health, and commit to lifelong learning in a constantly evolving field.
淵ou didn檛 arrive here alone,� McNeely said. 淵our families have been your foundation
� cheering you on during late-night study sessions and comforting you after tough
days. Keep them close, and let them support you. Take care of yourself so you can
take care of others. And never stop learning � every patient encounter is a lesson.�
Student speaker Lisa Lester echoed those themes, reflecting on the discipline and resilience required to reach this milestone. She recalled the early days of training, when strict dress codes and detailed checklists felt overwhelming.
淕reatness is in the details,� Lester said. 淚f we can檛 do the little things right,
we檒l never be able to do the big things right.�
Lester shared a story about meeting a former patient who recognized her in a store
and thanked her for the care she provided. That moment, she said, reminded her why
the sacrifices were worth it.
淭he reward is helping someone on their worst day,� Lester said. 淭hat檚 what makes
all the sacrifice worth it.�
She also spoke about the leadership skills developed during the program, noting that
EMTs often transition from being told what to do to directing scenes in high-pressure
situations.
淥ur leadership skills have been well developed this past year and will be a major
asset going forward,� Lester said.
As the ceremony concluded, McNeely left graduates with a final charge: 淕o forth with
pride, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to your patients. The world needs
more servants like you.�