Instructor tells Radiography Graduates to Succeed while Pursuing a Greater Purpose
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 91ӣƵ, 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.