Jackson Community College

College celebrates completion of first respiratory care class

Jackson Community College celebrated the completion of its first class of respiratory care students with a short ceremony Tuesday.

JCC’s respiratory care program was launched in 2007. This high-demand career field features respiratory care practitioners (RCPs, also known as respiratory therapists) who work primarily in hospitals and assist in the evaluation, diagnosis and care of patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary problems.

“I am proud of each of you,” said Ann Flint, program coordinator. “I know that you have and will represent the College well.”

The first respiratory care class included nine students who have completed their major requirements. There is a large demand for qualified respiratory therapists, and all students have had job offers from multiple regional hospitals.

The students prepared and presented formal thank you packages for all of the hospital instructors. Flint also expressed thanks to area hospitals who have donated equipment to JCC. Local and regional hospitals have donated over $100,000 in equipment to JCC, and provided clinical training to students. A number of people from Allegiance Health, including Kevin May, department manager, Marcus Cope, clinical educator, and Sue Bullinger, director of pulmonary rehabilitation.  

Class members include: Amber Bunch, Deanna Hafner, Renee Jacobs, Kevin Laverty, Brooke Losey, Wendy McLeod, Bethany Nichols, Katie Stych and Michael Tallman. Two students received special honors – Renee Jacobs, for Highest Academic Achievement, and Bethany Nichols, for Best Overall Performance.