WCA celebrated the graduation of eight students from its School of Medical Technology on Friday.

The school works to produce individuals that are highly trained in the medical laboratory setting, and who are responsible for performing many different types of laboratory tests that are involved with the detection, diagnosis and treatment of disease.

The School of Medical Technology is an 11-month clinical program designed to guide students through the knowledge that they will need in order to pass a national registry examination that is required for an individual to be certified and licensed as a medical laboratory scientist. The structure of the program includes two rotations: the first covering formal lectures and corresponding lab activities; and the second emphasizing the practical application of those theories. Before entering the program, students are required to complete a minimum of three years of college education, which culminates in a baccalaureate degree from their respective college upon completion of this program.

Graduates from the class of 2013 are: Noah Allen, of Jamestown, a graduate of SUNY Fredonia; Danielle Budzinski, of Ashville, a graduate of Daemen College; Wayne Donaldson, of Franklin, Pa., a graduate of Clarion University; Paul Kuznik, of Lancaster, a graduate of SUNY Fredonia; Kinelle’ Lester, of Derby, a graduate of Canisius College; Nicole Mang, of Lancaster, a graduate of SUNY Fredonia; Emily Pikna, of West Middlesex, Pa., a graduate of Clarion University; and Courtney Vitolo, of Turbotville, Pa., a graduate of Edinboro University.

Ronald Pittock, MT, a recently retired clinical chemistry manager from WCA, delivered the commencement address at the ceremony.

Following the commencement address, two awards were presented – the Murray S. Marsh Outstanding Student Award, which was given to Danielle Budzinski, and the Recognition Award, which was given out for the first time Friday to Kinelle’ Lester.

After the presentation of graduation certificates and class pins, the graduates were invited to take their guests on a tour through the clinical laboratory.