April Orange (at center) Program Director of the McLeod School of Medical Technology is pictured with 2019 graduates Christina Hunt and Joshua Beverly.

A graduation ceremony was held at McLeod Regional Medical Center on Wednesday, August 7, 2019, for Joshua Beverly and Christina Hunt, graduates of the McLeod School of Medical Technology.

In existence since 1977, the McLeod School of Medical Technology has graduated 191 students from the program. A Medical Laboratory Scientist plays an important role in the prevention and diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and diabetes. They perform laboratory tests on specimens and in turn these tests assist physicians in verifying the causes of illnesses, aid in making medical decisions and in determining treatment options for their patients.

“Their meticulous execution of tests is crucial,” said Dr. Philip Quann, Pathologist and graduation commencement address speaker. “The diagnosis and lab results that Christina and Joshua now bring as part of the team are an important thread in the quality and safety of our patients.”

Both Joshua and Christina were also recipients of scholarship funds for the McLeod School of Medical Technology. These scholarships were made possible through generous donations to the McLeod Health Foundation.

Joshua received the Kyra Nettles Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2000 by Dr. and Mrs. Michael Pavy to provide financial assistance for a student enrolled in the McLeod School of Medical Technology.

Christina was the recipient of the Dr. Vera C. Hyman Medical Technology Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 2017 by Dr. Hyman to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in the program at McLeod. Dr. Hyman was instrumental in the establishment of the Medical Technology Program at McLeod.

In her remarks to the two graduates, April Orange, Program Director for the McLeod School of Medical Technology, said, “Not every day is going to be easy, but it is what you put into it that makes it so rewarding.”

For more information on the McLeod School of Medical Technology, visit their website at www.peedeeahec.net.