At this year’s ceremony, 40 former public health nurse graduates received honorary diplomas: 18 were awarded the Gold Diploma for graduating 50 years ago, 19 received the Diamond Diploma for graduating 60 years ago, and 3 were presented with the Iron Diploma for completing their studies 65 years ago.

Public health nurse training in Hungary began in 1927 at the Institute for Nurse and Health Visitor Training at the University of Debrecen, and in 1930, education commenced at the Royal Hungarian State Institute for Nurse and Health Visitor Training in Budapest.

In 1937, a decision was made to establish a public health nurse training program in Szeged as well. The first graduation ceremony in Szeged was held in 1939, where 34 students received their diplomas.

Following the welcome speech by Dean Professor Dr. Edit Tóth-Molnár, attendees—including the honorees and their family members—were treated to a richly illustrated presentation that offered insights into the history of public health nurse education. Archival photographs brought the past to life, while contemporary images provided a glimpse into the daily lives of today’s students.

The honorary diplomas were ceremonially presented by the Dean and Dr. Orsolya Tobak, Head of Department, with the assistance of two current students dressed in traditional Green Cross uniforms. Their appearance paid homage to the era when the honored graduates were just beginning their careers in the profession.

After the ceremony, the alumni—now honored graduates—visited their former classrooms and dormitory rooms, which are still in use today for educational purposes. During the visit, they fondly recalled memories of their training and student years.

To conclude the event, the Faculty hosted a reception for this year’s Iron, Diamond, and Gold Diploma recipients. The friendly gathering provided an opportunity for informal conversations, reminiscing through old photographs, and sharing cherished memories.