Class of 2026 graduates from School of Radiography in Bradford

Class of 2026 graduates from School of Radiography in Bradford

BRADFORD, PA - The School of Radiography in Bradford held its graduation ceremony on August 18 at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.

Jeanne Capra, MHA, RT, program director, School of Radiography, served as master of ceremonies and Jessica Taylor, BS, RT, radiologic technologists at Warren General Hospital, a 2024 graduate of the School of Radiography, offered remarks to the graduates.

The graduating class of 2026 was presented diplomas by Alixandra Coon, M.Ed, RT, clinical coordinator, and Mark Welch, MD, medical advisor. The graduating class of 2026 consisted of eight graduates which included Samantha Beatty, Pittsfield, PA; Rylie Duell, Westfield, PA; Chloe Lasecki, Russell, PA; Ryley Pago, Templeton, PA; Gyasi Priester, Washington, DC; Nathan Reed, Emporium, PA; Sandra Shellgren, Pleasantville, PA; and Mya Stoddard from Clarendon, PA.

Four of the graduated earned a bachelor's degree in radiological science from University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, three graduates earned a bachelor's degree in medical imaging sciences from PennWest Clarion and one graduate earned an associate degree in applied science from Jamestown Community College.

"As a 1984 graduate of the school, I have had the privilege to work with many classes over the years. The class of 2026 has been excellent, both clinically and academically," Capra said. "Since joining the program, these students have faced many challenges related to several technological advances. Now, as graduates, I can say without hesitation that they are more than prepared to succeed in any healthcare environment."

During the ceremony, students received scholarships that were funded by a generous anonymous donor. Graduate Nathan Reed was awarded the Clinical Excellence Award and incoming senior in the program Alma Swartzentruber, received the Academic Excellence Award. Each award winner received $500.

The School of Radiography, part of the Imaging Services Department in Bradford, is a 24-month program providing didactic and clinical instruction. More than 800 hours of a student's time is spent in the classroom, and an additional 2,300 hours of clinical education is provided through the program. Since its establishment in 1978, the school has graduated more than 400 students from its two-year course.

The School of Radiography has 13 new students coming starting the program this Fall with another 13 students returning for their senior year in the 24-month program. Enrollment into the School of Radiography has continued to grow over the last few years. Demand for radiologic techs has continued to stay strong and the need for rad techs is continuing to faster than most jobs.

"We're thrilled to see more students choosing radiography as their career path," added Capra, director, School of Radiography. "Radiologic technologists play a vital role in modern medicine, and this increased enrollment ensures we are preparing more professionals to meet the critical healthcare needs of our communities. Our students have had a 100% job placement rate over the last five years."

For more information on the School of Radiography, call (814) 362-8292 or visit www.brmc-ogh.org.