Babson Park, FL (February 20, 2025) – Webber International University’s nursing program proudly celebrates its first graduate, Jaronda Terrell. Terrell graduated in December and successfully passed her NCLEX-RN nursing boards this February.
Nursing Program Director Jenafer Garcia praised Terrell’s dedication and achievements, stating, “Jaronda is the embodiment of what it means to be a nurse. She exceeded every expectation I have ever had for a nursing student, setting the bar high for those who will follow in her footsteps. She didn’t just meet the standards of our program—she defined them, proving that success in nursing is achieved through academic excellence, compassionate care, and sheer grit.”
Webber International University admitted its first nursing students into the core program in Fall 2022 as part of its commitment to addressing workforce needs in the healthcare industry.
Reflecting on her journey, Jaronda shared, “I chose to become a nurse because, as cliché as it sounds, I wanted to help people.” She added, “Treating a patient is absolutely important, but so is being compassionate.” Terrell believes her life experiences and education have prepared her for a successful career in healthcare.
Webber International University remains dedicated to serving the community by preparing skilled healthcare professionals to meet the growing demand in Southeast Polk County and beyond.
Webber’s President/CEO, Dr. Nelson Marquez, celebrated the success of the first graduate by saying, “Congratulations to Jaronda for this accomplishment—what a life-changing event! Thanks for defining the standard for the program.”
About Webber International University
Established in 1927 by Roger Babson as the first college chartered under Florida’s then new charitable and educational laws, Webber International University is a private, not-for-profit, independent institution offering degrees at the associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. Founded as America’s second school of business for women, the university boasts highly qualified faculty, engaged staff, small class sizes, and a diverse range of intercollegiate sports and extracurricular activities. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the institution offers numerous programs through traditional day and entirely online formats.
Webber International University has received recognition as a US News and World Reports Best Regional Colleges: South and a Princeton Review Best Southeastern College. It has earned top marks from Petersons for academics, value, and community, and has been designated a Military Friendly School. In 2011, St. Andrews University, a historically Presbyterian, comprehensive liberal arts school tracing its roots back to 1896, joined Webber as a branch campus.