Workforce Development celebrates paramedic graduates

Workforce Development’s Paramedic Class of 2024 held its graduation ceremony on Dec. 17 in Penn College’s Klump Academic Center Auditorium. The evening event celebrated the achievements of 10 graduates: Jeffrey Berry, Braden Bridge, Amber Erb, Daniel Ferretti, Hallie Gaffney, Myers Lorson, Dominic Santarelli, Nathan Shine, Daniel Worthington and Jerry Yost.

Santarelli served as student speaker for the ceremony and was honored with the Paramedic Program Director’s Award. Berry received the Humanitarian Award, and Lorson was presented the Dennis Dougherty Memorial Award.

“Today, as you graduate, you join a proud profession that carries the weight of responsibility and the privilege of making a difference in people's lives,” said Alison A. Diehl, vice president of workforce development, as she addressed the class. “You have trained tirelessly, learned to think on your feet, and developed the resilience needed to face the challenges that lie ahead. You understand that every call you respond to is more than just a job – it is a chance to be a beacon of hope in someone’s darkest hour.”

The group began its paramedic training on Jan. 2, and each student completed over 732 hours of field clinical time; 377 hours of in-hospital clinical time; 320 hours of hands-on lab practice time; and 430 hours of comprehensive lecture time. In addition, they obtained three certifications: Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support and Prehospital Trauma Life Support.

All of the graduates passed their National Registry Paramedic certification exam on the first attempt. This is the fourth cohort in a row from the Penn College paramedic program that has had a 100% first-pass success rate on the certification exam.

“I encourage you to carry forward the lessons you've learned – not just the medical skills, but the unwavering commitment to serve,” Diehl said. “You will face challenges, moments of doubt and times when the weight of your responsibilities feels heavy. In those times, remember the lives you will touch and the hope that you will instill.”

Also participating in the ceremony were Brady L. Breon, paramedic program director, who provided welcoming remarks, and Dr. Gregory R. Frailey, paramedic program medical director, who delivered words of wisdom. Assisting at the event were Brittany A. Breon, health care training specialist/clinical director, and John A. Nappi, paramedic program coordinator. 

This was the inaugural class of Workforce Development’s paramedic certificate, however Penn College has offered paramedic training for 45 years, Diehl noted. The paramedic certificate offers a fully immersive program that allows students to begin their careers in just 12 months. To learn more, visit the paramedic site.