Imaging Sciences Class of 2026 celebrates program’s first pinning ceremony

All 25 members of the Master of Science in Imaging Sciences Class of 2026 have taken and passed the national certification exam for radiologic technologists, an accomplishment that was celebrated at the program’s first-ever pinning ceremony on Oct. 29.

The pin represents the transition from student to being part of an honorable profession and serves as a tangible reminder of the commitment to patient care that radiologic technologists must have, Assistant Professor and Program Director Jamie Tucker, EdD, RT(R)(CT)(ARRT), said in her remarks during the ceremony in Holly Auditorium.

“It acknowledges the hard work, the dedication and the perseverance that students have had in a very, very rigorous educational program,” she said.  

The students have completed the first phase of the School of Health Professions’ two-year Master of Science in Imaging Sciences program and took the national certifying exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. 

“I am happy to say that all of our students who are here tonight successfully sat and passed that registry and now have the honor to be called radiologic technologists,” Tucker told the audience.

Students also heard remarks from Austen Holton, vice president of operations for imaging services at Methodist Healthcare System. Holton described the medical imaging profession as one that combines compassion and innovation, and he encouraged the students to remember that they have an important role in the care of patients who may be experiencing significant challenges.

“Follow your passion and purpose, and it will illuminate your future,” Holton said.