Celebrating-Respiratory-Care-Graduates.php

A Breath of Dedication: Celebrating Respiratory Care Graduates

• Events
• 05/15/2025

“Today, we stand not just as students, but as graduates—ready to step into the world as respiratory therapists,” graduate Omaymah Albadani began. “We all had something in common. We wanted to help people breathe better, easier, both literally and figuratively.” Standing proudly at the podium as valedictorian, she addressed her classmates, faculty, and loved ones.

The atrium of Rock Valley College’s Stenstrom Student Center was filled with emotion and pride on Wednesday, May 14, as friends, family, faculty, and clinical partners gathered to honor the Respiratory Care Program’s Class of 2025. The pinning ceremony recognized graduates for their academic achievements and unwavering dedication to a profession that literally helps people breathe.

Albadani's remarks highlighted unseen moments of their journey as respiratory care students. From navigating ventilator alarms and early mornings in scrubs to comforting patients during their most vulnerable moments, she reminded the audience that the graduates had done more than pass exams - they had grown into compassionate professionals ready to take on a demanding and vital role in health care.

“We didn’t choose this path because it was easy,” she continued. “We chose it because it mattered. Because we know the power of a single breath.”

That theme of breath of life resonated throughout the ceremony. Dr. Howard Spearman, President of Rock Valley College, welcomed guests and acknowledged the emotional weight of the moment.

As long as you have breath, you have purpose. You selected a profession that allows people to continue living longer.

Dr. Howard Spearman, RVC President

For many in attendance, the profession also held deep personal meaning. Trustee Bob Trojan shared the story of his late wife Norma’s journey with COPD and how respiratory therapists had brought care and dignity to her final days. He recounted how a scholarship created in her memory supports future students. The first recipient of the scholarship, now in the workforce, has inspired her own family members to follow in her footsteps.

The ceremony had many moving moments, including announcing the Respiratory Care Student of the Year. That honor went to Cindie Lamont, whose performance in the classroom and clinical settings impressed faculty and peers.

“This award goes to a student who has consistently demonstrated excellence, not only in academics but also in clinical performance, professionalism, leadership, and compassion,” said Program Director Samantha Flygare. “Cindie embodies the values of our profession and represents the future of respiratory care with integrity and heart.”

The ceremony also honored inductees into Lambda Beta Society, an honor society for Respiratory Care students. The three inductees included Omaymah Albadani, Kaleen Carlson, and Noah Henderson.

Each student was presented with a pin to mark the completion of their program and their official induction into the profession. Graduates select an important person in their life to do the honor of pinning them. With each pin, it became clear that this moment was more than a milestone; it was a tribute to their perseverance, purpose, and the human capacity to care.

“You chose a career that isn’t easy,” said Flygare. “It doesn’t just take skill; it takes heart. So, breathe in - pun intended - and celebrate how far you’ve come. We can’t wait to see the incredible things you will do.”

For the Class of 2025, the future begins with one breath, one patient, and one unwavering commitment to making a difference—one life at a time.