OFTC Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Respiratory Care Students Pinned During College Ceremony

Dublin, Ga., (OFTC) – Fifteen students graduating from Oconee Fall Line Technical College’s (OFTC) Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Respiratory Care programs were honored with a pinning ceremony held on the Dublin Campus, Tuesday, December 9.  

The pinning ceremony marks the end of the students’ two-year journey toward becoming registered diagnostic medical sonographers and respiratory therapists. 

“Pinning ceremonies for allied health students hold significance as a rite of passage, symbolizing achievement, professionalism, and the transition to the next phase of their careers,” shared Kelley Braxton, OFTC’s Director of Clinical Care for the Respiratory Care program. “They provide a meaningful and memorable experience that helps shape the identity and values of these future healthcare professionals.” 

During the ceremony, Rodney Cooper, Associate Vice President for Atrium Health Navicent served as keynote speaker, encouraging the graduates as they prepare to enter a new season in life and service. 

“This is a very special day that marks the transition from student to professional,” Copper shared. “This pin is more than a symbol. It’s a promise to uphold the values you have worked so hard to embody; to serve with integrity; and to lead with compassion.”  

“This pin is not the end of your journey,” he added. “It’s the beginning of your impact. You have earned this pin, now go earn your legacy.”  

Upon successful completion of the 2-year programs, students are eligible to sit for national exams to become registered professionals in their field. 

“We are so proud of you,” Braxton said to the graduates. “Your dedication, resilience, and intellectual curiosity have not only earned you a degree but have also set the stage for a future filled with limitless possibilities. As you embark on the next chapter, carry the torch of knowledge with pride and continue to illuminate the path of your remarkable journey.” 

OFTC’s President, Erica Harden, echoed the sentiments already expressed, reminding the graduates of their responsibility to the welfare and care of their patients.  

“I know you have the knowledge to be successful, and we’re confident you will leave here and do great things,” she said, “but what I want is for you to be remembered by your patients for how well you cared for them,” she shared.  

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduates 

Lauren Adams (Telfair)
Brittney Alvarez (Bleckley)
Destiny Brooks (Treutlen)
Maci Brown (Laurens)
Alexis Haigh (Laurens)
Piper Horne (Laurens)
Gillian Keller-Smith (Bleckley)
Alayna Wiggins (Washington) 

Respiratory Care Graduates 

Ashley Brown (Laurens)
Landon Carey (Telfair)
Erika Delcid-Lopez (Jones)
Kailey Forehand (Madison)
Lauren Loftin (Laurens)
Macy Rose (Laurens)
Shannon Waller (Jones) 

For more info about OFTC’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography or Respiratory Care programs, visit the college’s website, OFTC.edu.  

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