Guest speaker Chief Cameron Haller of Tipp City Fire and EMS speaks to recent Edison State Community College paramedic graduates during a ceremony held on Dec. 11, 2023, at the Piqua campus.
Courtesy photo
PIQUA — Edison State Community College honored 17 recent paramedic graduates with a celebration on Dec. 11, 2023, held at the Piqua campus.
“Each one of these graduates has demonstrated unwavering commitment, resilience, and a passion for serving others in time of need,” Jill Bobb, the associate dean of nursing & emergency medical services at Edison State, said during the welcome. “Let us not forget the importance of the role paramedics play in society. They’re the brave individuals who rush to the aid of those in distress, providing critical care and making split-second decisions that can often be the difference between life and death. Their impact on our community is profound.”
“To the graduates,” she continued, “I want to express our admiration for your dedication to learning, your ability to remain composed under pressure, and your compassion for those you will serve. You’re now equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in people’s lives, and we have full confidence in your ability to handle the challenges that lie ahead.”
“We know here at the college how important our first responders are,” said Edison State President Chris Spradlin. “That’s a noble call. It can be dangerous, and it’s always mentally and emotionally challenging. I want to say directly to the graduates, thank you for answering that call, and thank you for choosing Edison State.”
Guest speaker Chief Cameron Haller of Tipp City Fire and EMS and an advisory board member of Edison State’s paramedic program, then addressed the graduates, encouraging them to focus on four core values in their careers: integrity, trust, humility, and accountability.
“Set your priorities and values now and adhere to your values even when it’s difficult,” Haller said. “Enjoy the instant gratification of your chosen profession, helping somebody out in their time of need, even if you think it’s menial. Find peace and spiritual guidance with the difficult parts of our duties.”
The ceremony also included remarks from class representative Meghan Vaughn.
“I’m very proud that we made it through this year and grateful to have had the opportunity to take this class,” said Vaughn. “I’m more grateful for the people I’ve met along the way. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for all of us. Good luck with your careers.”
Offered exclusively through Edison State at Troy, the paramedic program provides students with the training and skills required of first responders.
To best serve and support community members in crisis, students learn about a wide range of possible critical scenarios, various medical issues, assessments, and treatment options. Topics such as physical anatomy, respiratory management, safety, medications, injury prevention, stabilization, and reporting are reviewed and assessed.
Paramedics function as part of a comprehensive emergency medical service response and perform interventions with the basic and advanced equipment typically found in an ambulance or fire/rescue vehicle. The paramedic is a vital link from the scene to the health care system.
For more information about the program, visit www.edisonohio.edu/programs.
Edison State recognized the following paramedic graduates: Brennan Arrell, of Casstown; Alexander Davidson, of Troy; Prestyn Hoefler-McDowell, of Troy; Austin Johnson, of Troy; Whtiney Knief, of Botkins; Gavin McGriff, of Brookville; John McGuirk, of Troy; Stephen Reser, of Arcanum; Chandler Sampson, of Covington; Brett Schumpert, of Minster; Christopher Scott, of Piqua; Christopher Slezak, of Tipp City; Megan Vaughn, of Brookville; Alexis Watern, of Hollansburg; Brandi Weber, of Sidney; Craig Wilson, of Brookville; and Mark Wysong, of Arcanum.
