Carson Fike of Pike Road, Alabama, will serve as graduation marshal for the College of Nursing at the Summer 2025 commencement. A recognition of academic achievement and leadership, student marshals are often chosen based on their outstanding academic performance, leadership qualities, and involvement in the campus community. A graduation marshal embodies the success and values of their graduating class, representing their peers during the commencement ceremony.
Fike joined Auburn’s nursing school four years ago with a determination to care for others both physically and spiritually.
“My interest in nursing grew from a passion to glorify my Lord and Savior with a lifelong servanthood and deep care for others in every aspect of life,” Fike said. “I realized how much I enjoyed caring for people during my time at Camp ASCCA, where I looked after campers both medically and emotionally. That experience confirmed my passion for nursing and motivated me to work hard in Auburn’s College of Nursing. I also learned early on that being a nurse means being willing to make sacrifices for the good of others.”
According to Fike, the nursing program has played an important role in his personal development. “Engaging with diverse departments and cities throughout five semesters has enabled me to identify new areas of interest and further develop my existing strengths. My time at the university developed my commitment to making the most of each moment and fully utilizing the educational opportunities available. AUCON also taught me the value of hard work, motivating me to strive for excellence in my nursing career and to consistently deliver high-quality care to future patients.”
Serving as Vice President of the American Association for Men in Nursing (AAMN) Auburn Chapter provided valuable opportunities for his professional development. “In this capacity, I helped facilitate initiatives that enabled members of our cohort—regardless of gender—to engage, collaborate, and foster a cohesive community.
“My involvement in programs supporting individuals with physical and mental disabilities, including participation as a college member with Best Buddies and serving for three summers as a counselor at Camp ASCCA, enhanced my appreciation for the resilience and uniqueness of each individual. These experiences emphasized the significance of shared moments, such as those spent around campfires, in building meaningful connections,” he added.
Fike highlighted the vital role played by both professors and practicing nurses in supporting individuals during their most challenging times and expressed a strong commitment to advocating for those in need. “I am inspired by the professors and nurses who have contributed to my professional growth, further motivating me to educate and mentor future generations of nursing professionals,” he added.
"Upon receiving the news of being awarded, I immediately felt a sense of deep gratitude for the honor, especially an appreciation for this school and everyone that participated in the cohort as well. I do not see myself and graduation without the loving and selfless individuals among my peers and professors in this cohort,” he said.
Fike’s future plans include becoming a registered nurse in the cardiac intensive care unit at Grandview Medical Center.
