Twin Sisters Graduate With Honors From University of Central Missouri, Begin Nursing Careers at Children’s Mercy
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The University of Central Missouri held its spring 2025 commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 9, and Saturday, May 10, at the Jerry M. Hughes Athletics Center in Warrensburg. The events celebrated nearly 2,000 graduates from both the spring and summer semesters.
We are proud to celebrate two of those graduates: twin sisters Kiley Jean Buckman and Kennedy Clare Buckman, daughters of Craig and Jennifer Buckman; granddaughters of Beverly Cook, Howard Disselhorst, the late Margaret Disselhorst, and John and Jean Buckman.
Kiley and Kennedy achieved a remarkable academic milestone, graduating with perfect 4.0 grade point averages from the University of Central Missouri. The two standout scholars were honored during UCM’s spring commencement ceremonies, where they were recognized for their academic excellence and dedication throughout their collegiate careers. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA requires consistent discipline, exceptional work ethic and unwavering focus—qualities Kiley and Kennedy have demonstrated in abundance.
Both earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and will take their board exam, the NCLEX, this summer to officially become registered nurses. They will begin their careers as pediatric nurses at Children’s Mercy in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, and are excited about the opportunities ahead.
During their pinning ceremony, each reflected on her collegiate journey. Kennedy said:
“I would like to first and foremost thank God for placing the desire to serve in the nursing profession on my heart and for the strength and opportunities provided throughout my schooling at UCM. I also could not have made it through nursing school without my twin sister, Kiley, by my side—what a blessing it has been to have a built-in study partner and best friend. I am deeply grateful for my soon-to-be husband, Josh, for being my rock through it all. I am also thankful for the professors who have poured into me and helped shape me into the best nurse I can be. I am incredibly thankful for the unwavering support of my friends and family throughout this whole journey. Additionally, the support and community from UCM’s Christian Campus House has been foundational in my personal faith journey. After graduation, I am excited and grateful to announce that I have accepted a position in the Pediatric Infectious Diseases unit at Children’s Mercy. I am excited to see what else the Lord has in store.”
Kiley said:
“I first give thanks to God for his unwavering faithfulness, guidance and grace throughout my nursing journey. I am incredibly thankful for the strength and peace he provided during every challenge and celebration along the way. One of the greatest blessings of nursing school has been sharing the entire experience with my twin sister, Kennedy. From late-night study sessions to clinical shifts, we’ve done it all together. I am deeply grateful for the friendships I have formed and the support of my amazing family, who have cheered me on from day one. I would also like to give a special thank-you to my fiancé, Alex, for his endless love, patience and encouragement. I am especially thankful for UCM’s Christian Campus House, which played a vital role in strengthening my relationship with Christ and helping me grow in my faith. I am thrilled to begin my nursing career at Children’s Mercy, continuing this journey of compassion, service and purpose—right alongside my twin, of course!”
