WCA graduates seven medical technologists in ceremony Friday
By Nicholas L. DeanArticle Photos
Having taken the stage as students, the seven graduates of WCA Hospital's School of Medical Technology left Friday's commencement ceremony as certified medical technologists.
The event was a mix of reflection and praise as instructors reminisced about the students' participation in the 11-month clinical program and speculated about their future successes.
''Our seven graduates have worked very hard over the past year to complete a challenging program,'' said Jon E. Sundholm, clinical laboratory manager. ''It's important for us to recognize and congratulate our graduates for all of their hard work and success in becoming what they are now, medical technologists.''
Introducing the staff and instructors of the program, Sundholm credited those who helped teach Friday's graduates and also gave special thanks to the family and friends who supported the new professionals throughout the last year.
Following Sundholm, Michele G. Harms, School of Medical Technology program director, gave an in-depth retrospect of the year, from first day through to commencement - and imparted personal advice to each of the graduates.
The School of Medical Technology is an 11-month clinical program for fourth year or senior year college students enrolled in a Bachelors Degree program in Medical Technology.
The 2008 School of Medical Technology graduates are Alicia Fackler, of Fredonia State University; Cheryl Gee Gonyea, of Fredonia State University; Chad Graziano, of Saint Francis University; Eric McCullough of Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania; Catherine Pace, of Clarion University of Pennsylvania; Michelle Schneider, of Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Holly Zehr of Fredonia State University.
Also during the graduation ceremony, an invocation was given by Rev. Donald Ray, retired hospital chaplain. The commencement address was given by Karen Bohall, interim director of human services. Florence Cass, W.C.A. Foundation executive director, presented the Murray S. Marsh Outstanding Student Award to Michelle Schneider. Class pins were presented by Janet L. McMillin-Jaszcz and certificates were awarded by Judith Burgett, WCA Hospital Board of Directors chairwoman.
