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The newest batch of graduates of the School of Medical Technology at NYM, stand with Lori Burkard, program director of the School of Medical Technology, front right.

"I saw something in each of you the day you came for your first interview. It was an inner-light reflecting your desire for knowledge," said Lori Burkard, program director of the School of Medical Technology at NYM, during a recent graduation ceremony held in the Hospital's Executive Dining Room. "Don't ever let that light go out and never stop learning," she added.

At the ceremony, eight graduates received certificates for the completion of the Hospital's demanding, 52-week medical technology program, which substitutes for the students' senior year of college. While at NYM, the graduates rotated between the blood bank, biochemistry, hematology, immunology, urinalysis, and microbiology laboratories. "We are very proud of your accomplishments and we thank you for selecting New York Methodist Hospital as a place to learn and grow," said Errol Hankin, senior vice president of NYM.

Established more than 30 years ago, the school requires students to work five-day weeks during which they obtain hands-on experience in the fields of pathophysiology and microbiology. Upon successful completion of the program, the students receive bachelor of science degrees from their colleges, certificates from the Hospital school and, after passing the registry examinations, professional accreditation. "The field of clinical laboratory science is a very diverse field. A degree in medical technology allows you to work in a hospital, private laboratory or educational setting, or perform research, environmental or chemical testing. The possibilities are numerous," said Ms. Burkard.

Special awards were given to several graduates for exceptional achievement. Johanna Rojas, of Sheepshead Bay, received the Award for Excellence in Microbiology and Immunology as well as the Blood Bank Award. JeannaAnn Garito, of Staten Island, was honored with the Biochemistry Award. Nariman Imran, of Bay Ridge, received the Award for Excellence in Hematology. Yasmeen Bawatneh, of Borough Park, received the Highest Honor Award, which is bestowed upon the student with the highest grade point average. Guram Gabunia, of Sunset Park, Sergey Mishin, of Bay Ridge, Olga Naglyuk, of Staten Island, and Avionne Daley-Toussaint, of Flatbush, also received graduation certificates.

The students were not the only ones to receive recognition at the ceremony; the graduates also thanked the laboratory prep technicians, phlebotomists, and laboratory technicians for their expertise and continued support. "We will bring the skills and experience that you have shared with us into the workforce as we pursue our dreams," said Ms. Garito, who spoke on behalf of the graduating class.

For more information about the Hospital's School of Medical Technology, please call 718-780-3706.