DMS program graduates
Gadsden, Ala. - The first class from Gadsden State’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program earned their Associate in Applied Science degrees in December 2019.
“I am beyond proud of this hard-working, dedicated group of students,” said Rebecca Southern, program director. “They were committed to the program and to each other. They became like family -- studying together, working together and socializing together.”
The Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program, which is located at Gadsden State’s Valley Street Campus, accepted the first cohort of students in Fall 2018. They were selected from over 130 applications.
“It is a highly-competitive program,” she said. “We select the best of the best. We select those who have high academic achievements as well as the proven ability to succeed.”
The program is the only one in Alabama that trains students in a comprehensive selection of DMS modalities. It covers abdomen, small parts, obstetrics/gynecology and vascular sonography.
“The fact that our students leave the program knowing all modalities makes them highly-desirable by employers,” she said.
There was an 89 percent completion rate from the first cohort. Fifteen graduated with two voluntarily withdrawing. Thirteen of the 15 graduates are currently working as sonographers.
Graduates include Kristen Abney, Morgan Beasley, Victoria Bowling, Kimberly Dostart, Talley Estes, Morgan Green, Emily Haynes, Kirsten Holderfield, Katherine Hufstetler, Carrie Mills, Aleaha McInturff, Allison Shanks, Madison Shelby, Autumn Thrower and Kayleigh Woodard.
“The goal of every instructor is to train and educate our students to the best of our ability so that they can have direct entry into the workforce,” Southern said. “I am so proud of all of my students but this class is definitely one I will never forget.”
Click here for more information about the DMS program.
