Volunteer State Community College recently loaned ventilators from the college’s Respiratory Care program to area hospitals as part of the effort to supply health care workers with the equipment they need to save lives. One ventilator was sent to Sumner Regional Medical Center in Gallatin. Two other ventilators will be loaned to Centennial Medical Center in Nashville.
The college also sent Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to Sumner Regional Medical Center, Hendersonville Medical Center, and the Sumner County Emergency Management Agency. The equipment, such as gloves, masks, face shields, Tyvex suits, and N95 respirators comes from programs in Health Sciences and Physical Plant operations.
“These health care agencies are great partners with the college in our health science programs,” said Vol State president Jerry Faulkner. “They regularly support our programs by providing clinical access for student training, sharing their expertise and contributing financially to the college foundation. We are honored to be able to support our partners during the pandemic crisis.”
The Vol State Respiratory Care program averages 15 graduates each year and was founded in 1977.
Vol State responded early to the coronavirus outbreak. The normal one-week spring break was extended by a week to give time for faculty and staff to transition to all online classes. Beginning on March 23, all offerings of the college were made available via the Internet. The college is working individually with students to make sure they have the technology and access to be successful in an online environment. The other important transition was to prepare employees of the college to work from home while still maintaining a high level of academic and student support.
A virtual commencement ceremony will be held online on May 16. The virtual format will give graduates individual recognition, by providing the opportunity for students to add personal content by submitting a photo and message. Graduates will receive details soon via email.
All campuses are closed, but Vol State is open online. The majority of college staff are working via phone, e-mail, and other online communication to help students and others who need assistance. The Office of Advising is currently making appointments for students to prepare to register for Summer and Fall semesters. For more information about Summer and Fall semesters visit www.volstate.edu and email admissions@volstate.edu.
