Reflective Narrative

I have proudly served Chesapeake College since 2004 and have been the Program Director for Surgical Technology since 2010. During this time, I have worked diligently to grow the program, improve our surgical technology program, and ensure our students graduate with the highest levels of skill, professionalism, and surgical conscience.

 

When I became Program Director, we transitioned from a small lab at Easton Hospital to our own dedicated surgical technology lab suite on campus. Since then, I have continuously enhanced our resources by securing donations of surgical instruments, drapes, sutures, and supplies, as well as larger equipment such as OR tables, IV poles, and even an anesthesia machine—all at no cost to the college. These efforts have created a state-of-the-art environment for students to learn and practice in.

 

The success of our program is reflected in the consistent feedback we receive from clinical facilities and surgeons, as well as our above-national-average pass rate on the CST exam, which students take right here at Chesapeake. Most of our graduates secure employment before or immediately after graduation, with many going on to become preceptors in our partnering hospitals.

 

Beyond the classroom, I have dedicated myself to promoting the program and the profession. I have represented Surgical Technology at community events such as Junior Achievement in Salisbury and regularly collaborate with hospitals and recruiters to connect students with career opportunities. I have also served as Treasurer of the Maryland/Delaware State Assembly for Surgical Technologists for the past three years and have been an active member of AST for 25 years.

 

Student success is at the heart of everything I do. I lead our Surgical Technology Club, where students and I work together to raise funds for professional development opportunities. Our most recent holiday bingo fundraiser raised over $10,000, allowing students to attend conferences and educational trips, while also giving back to the community by donating to families in need through the VFW. Over the years, I have taken students to national conferences in Chicago, New Orleans, Washington, D.C., and San Antonio, as well as on local trips to hospitals and museums. These experiences broaden their professional horizons and strengthen their commitment to the field.

 

Above all, my goal has remained the same: to ensure patient safety by preparing the best possible surgical technologists. I work to instill not only technical skill but also ethics, professionalism, and a strong surgical conscience—qualities that are essential when our graduates are entrusted with the lives of patients in the operating room.