Vital Roles

UPMC Chautauqua Medical Laboratory Science program hosts graduation

A white coat ceremony was recently held to celebrate the graduates of the UPMC Chautauqua Medical Laboratory Science Program.

Graduates received a Certificate of Completion allowing them to complete their Bachelor of Science degree at their respective universities.

"Holding our graduation ceremony each year is a special way to recognize the significant achievement of our graduates and to publicly affirm their success as they begin their careers in this vital diagnostic role," said Michele Harms, program director. "While medical laboratory scientists may not always be seen by the public, their work profoundly impacts patients' lives."

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 Paiton James (State University at Fredonia), Laura Johnston (SUNY Fredonia), Arielle LaBruno (SUNY Fredonia), Cleo McDermott (SUNY Fredonia), Kayla Martinelli (State University at Binghamton), Melanie Mienke (University of Pittsburgh), and Kyle Owings (Sonoma State University).

"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."

Each year, one graduate is selected to receive the Murray S. Marsh Outstanding Student Award, gifted by Marsh's family through the W.C.A. Foundation. This year's recipient was Kyle N. Owings.

During the ceremony, Kyle Jordan, program coordinator, noted that the class brought positivity and camaraderie to this rigorous, medical-school-style learning environment, making this a class he won't soon forget. Jordan presented each graduate with a program pin, while Dr. William Geary, medical director for the program, awarded each graduate a Certificate of Completion.