“These graduates have not only learned how to use special techniques and instrumentation in the diagnosis of disease, but they also now have an in-depth knowledgebase to support clinicians and to problem solve difficult cases,” said Michele Harms, program director. “Completing the preceptorship is a significant accomplishment for these graduates, and now it is time for their certification and licensing exams.”

With a 40-year history, the UPMC Chautauqua Medical Laboratory Science Program is an accredited, 45-week, preceptorship offering intensive study and clinical experience in medical laboratory science as the final year of a bachelor’s degree in medical technology. The rigorous year is designed to develop a highly competent laboratory professional ready to perform vital diagnostic tests.

This year’s graduates are: Berit Abers (SUNY Fredonia), Melissa Briggs (SUNY Fredonia), Ashley Dillon (Hiram College), Jocelyn Faulkner (SUNY Fredonia), Angelo Iasevoli (SUNY Fredonia), My Vy Lam (SUNY Fredonia), Olivia Metzger (Canisius University), Emi Nunez (SUNY Fredonia), Annabelle Schmitte (Elmira College), Noah Smith (SUNY Fredonia).

“UPMC Chautauqua’s Medical Laboratory Science Program is training the next generation of health care professionals, as well as supporting the hospital’s retention and recruitment efforts,” said Harms. “I have the honor of watching them transform from college science students to amazing laboratory professionals, and we are very proud of each of them for a job well done.”

Photo of Olivia Metzger with Kristin Mellville, executive director, WCA Foundation, who presented Metzger with the Murray S. Marsh Outstanding Student Award.

Each year a graduate is selected to receive the Murray S. Marsh Outstanding Student Award gifted by the family of Mr. Marsh through the WCA Foundation. This year’s award was presented to Olivia Metzger.

“Never lose site of the significance and impact of the work that each of you will be doing as medical laboratory scientist,” said Kyle Jordan, program coordinator, to the graduates.

For more information about the UPMC Chautauqua Medical Laboratory Science Program, visit www.UPMCChautauqua.org and select careers.