Washington (D. C.) Sanitarium by R. S. INGERSOLL, M. D.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 22, 1910

Washington (D. C.) Sanitarium

By R. S. INGERSOLL, M. D.

Commencement Exercises

THE evening of September 5 is one that will be remembered by the class of 1910, of the Washington (D. C.) Sanitarium, and all associated with the institution. This was the occasion of the graduation of the first class of students from this comparatively new sanitarium, which was dedicated June 13, 1907.

The three years' study and experience of this pioneer class developed sixteen dependable workers. Many of these have already held responsible positions as matrons and heads of departments. We hope to see a goodly number of them in mission work. One is already booked for China, and we are keeping several for important positions in the work here

in Washington. It would please the board of trustees and the faculty to see all employed either by the Mission Board or by conferences.

It was quite fitting that this class of missionary nurses should receive their credentials in the chapel of the Foreign Mission Seminary. The address of the evening was given by Elder A. G. Daniels, who emphasized the importance and breadth of the field in which they were to work, laying special stress upon the essential qualifications of a missionary nurse, and pointing out the high ideals to be attained. Elder W. A. Spicer, in a few words to the graduating class, spoke very touchingly of the field and opportunities before them, and paid a fitting tribute to the late Florence Nightingale and her work as a nurse.

We trust this will be but the beginning of a stream of useful workers, going from this institution to needy fields. We are seeking to strengthen our course year by year, and have added materially this present year in Bible study, feeling that it is important that all who qualify as missionary nurses should have a thorough knowledge of the Bible. We have already completed arrangements by which the young men will be able to have special experience in one of the city hospitals during their course, and hope also to make satisfactory arrangements for our lady nurses. In passing, I would mention that there is still opportunity for two or three young men in the class which has just opened. Immediate application, accompanied with good references, will receive prompt attention.

With earnest prayers that these young people may accomplish great good wherever they may work, the board and faculty of the institution have sent them forth.

R. S. INGERSOLL, M. D.