Respiratory therapy graduates and their instructors

Twelve respiratory therapy students from 91ӣ����Ƶ were honored during a recent pinning ceremony, marking completion of the educational requirements needed to sit for the national board exam and become registered respiratory therapists. The graduates will enter the healthcare field prepared to treat and support patients with cardiopulmonary diseases.

“This year’s class is truly exceptional,” said Tim King, program director and chair of the respiratory therapy program. “They have navigated shifts in modern healthcare protocols and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both their studies and the well-being of their patients. Their ability to support one another through class, labs and clinical rotations shows they are not just knowledgeable clinicians, but deeply compassionate caregivers.”

Respiratory therapists serve on the frontline of cardiopulmonary care, managing acute asthma attacks, trauma cases and ventilator support, King noted.

ECC congratulates the following graduates, who will begin practicing in local hospitals and clinics: Keyshanna Baker, Mikaela Brake, Emma Camp, Nikita Davis, Cloey East-Garris, Catherine Johnson, JaMeshia Johnson, Kristen Joyner, Kaylee Richardson, Keri Stewart, Elizabeth Strickland and La’Tanya Willoughby.

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Pictured l-r (center) Kimbely Byron-Barnes, program chair for medical assisting, Leaha Foltz, Taylor Batts, Je’Shayron Williams, Kathy Cruz and Julie Walker, instructor

91ӣ����Ƶ recognized its medical assisting graduates on May 7 during a pinning ceremony in Barnes Auditorium on the Rocky Mount campus. The four graduates recited the Medical Assisting Creed, affirming values such as trust, loyalty, service, compassion, courage and faith.

The ceremony marked the culmination of classroom instruction, laboratory experience and clinical training that prepare students for a rewarding healthcare career.

“Through dedication, hard work and hands-on training, the 2026 graduating class developed the knowledge, skill and confidence needed to begin successful careers in healthcare,” said Kimberly Byron-Barnes, program chair for medical assisting. “They consistently demonstrated compassion, professionalism and a commitment to learning while preparing to make a positive impact in the lives of their patients and communities.”

Medical assisting students are trained in clinical, administrative and professional competencies. Byron-Barnes noted that graduates learn to administer injections and medications, perform phlebotomy and specimen collection, manage patient information, process medical insurance and billing, and more.

ECC congratulates its 2026 medical assisting graduates: Taylor Batts, Kathy Cruz, Leaha Foltz and Je’Shayron Williams.

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Pictured l-r are: Lauryn King, Karlee Hammack, Jasmine Kearney, Jessica Lopez-Riano, Dori Sullivan, Kaitlyn Green, Alexis Clemmons and Anna Blair

Amie Sasser, a CT/MRI instructor and clinical coordinator at 91ӣ����Ƶ, delivered her remarks to the eight graduates who were pinned May 6 during ECC’s Radiography Pinning Ceremony. Sasser urged ECC’s Radiography Class of 2026 to pursue success while keeping a greater purpose at the center of their work. She framed her message around three words: precision, patience and purpose.

“You did not choose an easy path,” Sasser told the graduates. “You chose a profession that lives at the intersection of technology and humanity. You chose a field where a fraction of a millimeter matters, where timing is everything, and where the images you produce can change the entire course of someone’s life.”

Sasser reminded the graduates that integrity, resilience and compassion remain essential in every environment. “You’ve learned protocols, anatomy, pathology and physics,” she said. “But beyond all of that, you’ve learned something even more important—how to care for people in moments of vulnerability.”

Desiree Duncan, radiography program chair, shared that sentiment.

“Eight strong, this year’s radiography class stood out not just for sharp minds and fearless critical thinking, but for a natural, generous leadership that lifted everyone around them,” said Duncan. “They challenged the status quo with genuine curiosity, taught me more about AI than I ever expected to learn, and turned innovation into everyday practice. I see this group setting a new standard for patient centered imaging in our community—safer, smarter and more compassionate—because they don’t just master the technology; they humanize it.”

Seven of the eight graduates already passed the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam on their first attempt, according to Duncan. The last graduate will take the test later this month. Graduates must pass this national exam to become registered radiographers. Passing earns them the title of R.T.(R)(ARRT). This title shows they are registered radiologic technologists with the ARRT. Once certified, these versatile professionals can work in a variety of healthcare settings. These places include hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, labs, government agencies, and other healthcare settings.

Following a student address to classmates by class president Karlee Hammack, the eight radiography graduates received their pins from faculty members Deanne Swartout, Melissa Davis, Denise Spence and Kimberly Brayboy.

The members of the Radiography Class of 2026 are Lauryn King, Karlee Hammack, Jasmine Kearney, Jessica Lopez-Riano, Dori Sullivan, Kaitlyn Green, Alexis Clemmons and Anna Blair.
The Academic Excellence Award was presented to Karlee Hammack, the radiography student with the highest-grade point average. Dori Sullivan received the Lynwood D. Twisdale Memorial Award, presented to the best all-around student who demonstrates the best attitude, best performance, and excellent proficiency.

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ECC’s largest Associate Degree Nursing graduates were pinned two days before commencement

91ӣ����Ƶ recognized its Associate Degree Nursing graduates on May 6 during the annual pinning ceremony on the Tarboro campus. The 54 graduates were pinned two days before ECC’s commencement ceremony.

“This year’s ADN pinning ceremony was especially meaningful as we celebrated 54 graduates — the largest graduating class in our program’s history,” said Ami Denton, director of nursing programs. “Their dedication, resilience and compassion represent the future of nursing, and we are incredibly proud to welcome them into the profession.”

All graduates have met the education requirements to take the NCLEX-RN, the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.

During the ceremony, graduates heard an inspiring message from Dr. Sherri Smith Hamiel, DNP, RN. Hamiel is a nursing instructor with more than two decades of experience in healthcare. She began her career as a certified nursing assistant in high school and has since worked in several specialties, including cardiopulmonary, telemetry, gastrointestinal, school nursing and clinical education.

Hamiel is an ECC alumna who earned an associate degree in nursing. She later completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master of Science in Nursing Education and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

As part of the ceremony, Mishay Wheeler and Brianna Dawson received DAISY Awards. Established in 1999, the DAISY Award recognizes nursing students who demonstrate compassion, advocacy and leadership. The award was created by the DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 from an autoimmune disease. His family established the foundation to honor the nurses who cared for him.

Pictured l-r Instructor Lisa Jenkins, Brianna Dawson, Mishay Wheeler and Renee Mayo, vice president of patient care services, CNO at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital

ECC congratulates the Associate Degree Nursing Class of 2026:

MD Jubayer Alam
Ashanti Anstead
Kimberly Battle
Jayla Boyd
Katrina Broadie
Jazmine Casanova
Maira Caudle
Fatou Cham
Baylee Clark
Emily Colt
Nicole Coombs
Takia Daniels
Hannah Davis
Brianna Dawson
Tamara Dildy
Squia Eatmon
Willette Edge
Olivia Edwards
Stacy Exum
Montressee Ferrell
Latisha Godard
Jarell Ham
Nyesha Hardy
Amberly Harris
Bailey Hicks
Casey Holmes
Luv Hope
Quinisha Horne
Tasha Hunter
Mya Johnson
Alexis Knight
Caroline Matia
Jeannette McDaniel
Malinda Mitchell
Debrisha Morris-Hardy
Serena Petway
Lakesha Powell
Lillie Ribeiro
Shannon Ricks
Trudy Roberson
Sainabou Samba
Sarah Shelton
Tiffany Speight
Shaqina Spencer
Tyvon Sumler
Alina Timberlake
Alana Tyson-Paredes
Melissa Vega
Tiara Webb
Mishay Wheeler
Devan Whitehurst
Requita Williams
Shakelia Williams
Taylor Williams

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Under the agreement, students can complete general education courses at ECC before applying to Martin Community College’s two-year Physical Therapist Assistant program. Martin will accept two qualified ECC students each year. Graduates will receive an Associate in Applied Science degree in Physical Therapist Assistant from Martin Community College.

“This partnership adds to the many exciting career pathways we offer our students and also helps us meet the growing need for physical therapy care here in Edgecombe County and across our region,” stated Dr. Greg McLeod, ECC president. “Our high-quality general education courses combined with Martin Community College’s strong PTA curriculum and specialized equipment will help ensure that our students will thrive in this field.”

Upon graduation, students may be eligible to take the licensure examination administered by the NC Board of Physical Therapy Examiners. Employment is available in general hospitals, rehabilitation centers, extended care facilities, specialty hospitals, home health agencies, private clinics and public-school systems.

The Physical Therapist Assistant program at Martin Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085. For specific admission requirements, students should contact an ECC counselor at (252) 823-5166.

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91ӣ����Ƶ announces its participation in the UnitedHealthcare Future Leaders in Health Scholarship Program. This is a new initiative aimed at training the next generation of rural healthcare professionals.

North Carolina is currently facing a healthcare crisis, with nearly three million residents living in areas without adequate medical professionals. Rural counties are hit the hardest, often operating with half the number of providers per capita compared to urban areas. Projections show that by 2033, the state is expected to face shortfalls of over 12,500 registered nurses and 5,000 licensed practical nurses.

To address this challenge, UnitedHealthcare has invested $500,000 in a new scholarship program that will benefit 400 NC community college students across 35 North Carolina Community Colleges, including 91ӣ����Ƶ. The scholarship program supports students pursuing both short-term credentials and degrees in healthcare, specifically focusing on nurse aide I, nurse aide II, practical nurse and associate degree nursing
coursework.

“At 91ӣ����Ƶ, we see firsthand the passion our students have for serving their communities,” said Dr. Greg McLeod, president of ECC. “This partnership with UnitedHealthcare allows us to remove financial barriers like tuition and transportation, ensuring our local healthcare facilities are staffed by the talented professionals our neighbors rely on every day.”

This gift is the latest chapter in UnitedHealthcare’s commitment to North Carolina’s rural health infrastructure.

“By investing in the Future Leaders in Health Scholarship Program, we are not only supporting the career aspirations of dedicated students, but also ensuring that North Carolinians in rural and underserved areas have access to the high-quality, local care they deserve,” said Anita Bachmann, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina.

The scholarships are designed to be comprehensive, covering costs ranging from tuition and testing to basic living expenses and transportation.

“This investment allows us to remove the financial barriers that often stand between a student and a healthcare career,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, president of the North Carolina Community College System. “It is a strategic investment in the future of our state’s economy and the well-being of our citizens.”

Students at 91ӣ����Ƶ who are interested in applying for the UnitedHealthcare Future Leaders in Health Scholarship Program should call (252) 618-6660. The program will be effective starting summer 2026.

About the North Carolina Community College System

The (NC Community Colleges or System) is the engine for workforce development in North Carolina and the only public entity dedicated to providing affordable college access to anyone in the state. The System is governed by the with administration from the , and support from the , and is powered by the 58 community colleges and their respective foundations. Together, the System serves 600,000 students and awards more than 60,000 degrees, diplomas, and certificates annually. For more information, visit .

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Pictured from left to right: Mattalyn Rouse, Brittany Cox, Bidjie Fevrier, Suzi Shippen-Wagner (program chair), Kaitlyn Watkins, Maria Lopez, and Tara Davis.

91ӣ����Ƶ celebrated its surgical technology graduates with a pinning ceremony on Dec. 12. The six graduates have successfully completed the academic requirements qualifying them to sit for the national certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

Surgical technologists play a vital role, supporting nurses, surgeons and other healthcare professionals. Their responsibilities center on maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring proper preparation before, during and after surgical procedures.

Congratulations to this year’s surgical technology graduates.

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91ӣ����Ƶ held its Emergency Medical Services graduation ceremony Dec. 4 in Tarboro. Sixty-two students completed their training, receiving their certificate and eligibility to take the state test and become certified. Of those 62 students, 37 completed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), 14 completed Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), and 11 completed paramedic training.

An EMT delivers emergency medical services outside of the hospital, such as at homes, accident scenes, public places and in ambulances. The AEMT program is designed for individuals who are already EMT’s. In this program, they advance their knowledge and ability to provide treatment. Paramedics are licensed to provide a wide range of advanced emergency services and some complex procedures outside of the hospital.

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On September 27, 91ӣ����Ƶ (ECC) nursing students laced up their sneakers and showcased their dedication to health and community spirit at the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Twin Counties Heart Walk, held at NC Wesleyan University.

The students, volunteering and walking as the team Pulse Patrol, were led by their dedicated coach, Melissa Dunn. ECC President, Dr. Greg McLeod, also participated. A remarkable 25 students either volunteered their time to help the event run smoothly, or walked to support the AHA’s vital mission of fighting heart disease and stroke.

Team Pulse Patrol also demonstrated their creative flair and team unity, clinching the victory in the event’s T-shirt Competition! This win highlighted the students’ enthusiasm and commitment, proving their passion extends beyond the classroom and into community engagement.

The participation of these future nurses not only supported a critical cause, but it also provided valuable real-world experience in community involvement. Their participation reinforced the importance of preventative health measures they’ll soon be championing in their careers. Well done, Pulse Patrol!

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91ӣ����Ƶ’s Rocky Mount campus and the Rocky Mount Fire Department training grounds were the sites for ECC’s third annual Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) simulation event. On Saturday, Oct. 4, students from ECC’s allied health programs, along with local stakeholders from Bertie County EMS, Eastern Regional Hazardous Materials Response Team, ECU East Care, Edgecombe County EMS, Rocky Mount Fire Department, Rocky Mount Police Department and Williamston Fire and Rescue convened to train for emergencies.

“Each year, we hold the Mass Casualty event to better prepare our students and external partners to respond to disasters that we know Eastern North Carolina could experience,” said Adam Culbertson, fire and EMS coordinator at ECC and organizer for the simulation. “This year’s event was the most complex thus far, as it involved a shooting, fire and hazardous materials. Even though this seems extreme, it is something that could happen anywhere.”

The training event began at 8am and included more than 40 responders and 100 volunteers. Approximately 75 students from EMS, nursing, respiratory therapy, radiography and surgical technology also participated.

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