Photo Caption:(Sitting, left to right): Thomas Holland, Robin Gordon, Caylin Bullock and Allie Honey. (Standing, left to right): Brandi Landwehr, Ashley Smotherman, Tyler Ray, Travis Taylor, Matthew Kaufmann and William Cotham. Dickson resident not pictured: Shannon Hudgins

(COLUMBIA, Tenn. – May 13,  2019) - - Columbia State Community College recognized11 respiratory care graduates during its annual pinning ceremony.

Students who are trained to work as respiratory therapists provide assessment, diagnostic evaluation, treatment and care for patients with breathing disorders. Upon completion of the program, graduates have become experts in artificial ventilation, resuscitation and airway management.     

Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings including long-term care facilities, home care agencies and area hospitals, such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Maury Regional Medical Center, Southern Tennessee Regional Health System Lawrenceburg, Saint Thomas West Hospital, Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital and Monroe Carrel Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

“Nearly all of the students had job commitments before graduation,” said R. David Johnson, director and associate professor of the respiratory care program. “These students work hard to prepare for their new careers.”

Columbia State’s respiratory care program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. All students participate in supervised, hands-on care in a variety of area healthcare settings and receive adult, pediatric and neonatal training. 

“Columbia State's respiratory care program prepares graduates for rewarding careers,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, dean of the Health Sciences Division and professor of radiologic technology. “These future therapists will be difference makers in patient care. The respiratory care class of 2019 becomes part of Columbia State’s proud tradition of excellence in preparing healthcare professionals to serve patients and communities across the region.”

For more information about applying to the respiratory care program, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Respiratory-Care. 

Photo Caption: Bedford County: Robin Gordon

Photo Caption:Lawrence County: Tyler Ray

Photo Caption: Maury County:(Left to right): Brandi Landwehr, Allie Honey and William Cotham.

Photo Caption: Perry County: Caylin Bullock

Photo Caption: Rutherford County: Ashley Smotherman 

Photo Caption:Williamson County:Thomas Holland, Travis Taylor and Matthew Kaufmann.