OFTC Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Respiratory Care Students Pinned During Inaugural Ceremony
Thirteen students graduating from Oconee Fall Line Technical College’s (OFTC) Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Respiratory Care Technology programs were honored with a joint pinning ceremony held on the Dublin Campus, Thursday, December 7.
These students are the first to participate in a pinning ceremony held in honor of these Allied Health programs in the college’s 12-year history.
The Significance of the Pinning
The joint 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. They provide a meaningful and memorable experience that helps shape the identity and values of these future healthcare professionals.
“By being pioneers in this ceremonial tradition, these students have effectively opened doors and made a lasting impact that will shape the future of both OFTC and the allied health field,” shared Kelley Braxton, OFTC’s Director of Clinical Care for the Respiratory Care program.
Ready for the Future
During the joint pinning ceremony, Sara Kolbie, City of Dublin Council Member served as keynote speaker, encouraging the graduates as they prepare to enter a new season in life and service.
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.”
“Now that graduation is upon you, I hope you see that the many hours of studying, driving to and from clinical and long nights were only temporary,” added Jennifer Eiland, OFTC Diagnostic Medical Sonography instructor. “Through your perseverance you have prevailed and will now embark on a new journey.”
Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduates
Alley Claxton, Laurens
Chloe Jones, Telfair
Alicia Orr, Laurens
Shelby Shenk, Laurens
Geneve Steverson, Johnson
Chloe Stone, Telfair
Nacolle Wilder, Laurens
Respiratory Graduates
Tre’Meisha Charleston, Laurens
Markeisha Darrisaw, Laurens
Ankeithian Howell, Peach
Latwaunda Neal, Toombs
Kayla Tarpley- Laurens
Megan Thorn- Long
To learn more about OFTC’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography or Respiratory Care programs, visit the College’s website, OFTC.edu.
###
OFTC is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia.
