Author: gjones

Student Mary Romine posing with Dr. Bauer during graduation

Mary Romine Receives President’s Spirit of ECC Award

May 16, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Although East Central College Nursing program graduate Mary Romine received her diploma for Associate of Applied Science in Nursing on May 11, she has already been pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) for five months.

Romine, from Rolla, who attends classes at ECC in Rolla, is described as a leader among her peers and someone who consistently exceeds expectations in every aspect as a student. Additionally, she excels academically and demonstrates leadership within the Student Nurse Organization.

During ECC’s Commencement Ceremony, Romine was recognized for those qualities, and more, with the President’s Spirit of East Central College Award.

ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer presented the award to Romine, noting that she was graduating that day cum laude, and as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Bauer added that Romine is active and holds leadership positions in multiple student organizations while maintaining an outstanding 3.58 GPA in nursing school.

“Her commitment to giving back to the community is evident through her volunteer work with school-aged children, where she shares her passion for the nursing profession,” he said.

In addition to the President’s Spirit award, Romine received the Phelps Health Spirit of Excellence in Nursing award during the Nursing program pinning ceremony earlier that day.

“I was utterly shocked to have received these awards…” she said. “When we took our seats at the commencement ceremony, I saw a section of the program that was all about me! I was so honored to have received both awards, and I was emotional because all my hard work paid off.”

“I live by being kind to each individual I meet and trying my hardest at everything I do,” Romine added. “Spreading this positivity and devotion aids in developing trust with others. To be appreciated and recognized meant the world to me, and I appreciate everyone involved in nominating and choosing me for these awards.”

Healthcare Field

Romine is already working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Phelps Health in Rolla, and she will work as a full-time registered nurse now that she’s graduated. She plans to graduate with a BSN in May 2025. Meanwhile, she will study for the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) exam.

Her next step will be to apply for the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) three-year program at MSU.

“If everything goes according to plan, I expect to graduate with my doctorate in 2029,” Romine said. “My end goal is to be a DNAP at Phelps Health Hospital. I love the Rolla community and want to build my dream home and family here in my hometown.”

“I want to thank everyone in my support system, including my family, fiancé, mentors, instructors, friends, the Rolla community, and the One Life ministry,” she added. “None of this would be possible without God, my number one supporter, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.'”

Sandy Lucy Named ECC Outstanding Alumni

May 15, 2024 | Campus News

Sandy Lucy of Washington was honored with the 2024 Outstanding East Central College Alumni award during the College’s 54th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 11. Lucy, a member of the Class of 1976, was celebrated for her pioneering contributions to her community.

Notably, she made history as the first female mayor of the City of Washington, serving in this role for 12 years.

Prior to that, she broke barriers as the first woman elected as chairperson of the Washington Chamber of Commerce. These achievements, along with her numerous other exceptional contributions to local politics and community service, led to her selection for the prestigious East Central College Foundation award.

Presented by ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer, the Outstanding Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed upon an ECC alum by the East Central College Foundation. It recognizes individuals who have brought honor to the College through their professional accomplishments, leadership, and community impact.

Drawing upon her experience as a transformative leader, Lucy delivered a message of empowerment to graduates, emphasizing the importance of being present in shaping the future.

“The world belongs to those who show up,” she said. “As life goes on, you will have many opportunities to get involved and participate — be someone people can count on.”

About Sandy Lucy

A graduate of St. Francis Borgia Regional High School, Lucy embarked on her educational journey at ECC, where she earned an associate degree in general studies before obtaining a degree in speech pathology and audiology from the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg.

Lucy’s commitment to serving others has been evident throughout her career. Following her academic pursuits, she worked as a speech and language pathologist in rural schools in Lincoln and Pike counties, positively impacting the lives of countless students.

Mayor Lucy

During her tenure as Mayor of Washington from 2010 to 2022, Lucy made significant strides in economic development and transportation growth, including overseeing milestones such as the opening of the new Missouri River Bridge.

Lucy’s leadership, characterized by respect, integrity, and a focus on community well-being, has earned her widespread admiration. Her dedication to ECC extends beyond her time in office, as she has served on the Foundation Board since 2005 and actively contributes to the ECC Alumni Association.

“It’s rare that our elected leaders are held in high esteem by the majority of their constituents,” her nomination read. Sandy Beste Lucy is one of those rare leaders.”

“She is a woman of exceptional character who shows everyone respect and leads with an eye focused on the big picture.”

In addition to her involvement with ECC, Lucy’s philanthropic endeavors include establishing an endowed scholarship in 2021 and serving on various community committees, including those for tourism, historic preservation, and the Washington Area Chamber of Commerce.

Managing the Gary Lucy Gallery, which she co-owns with her husband, Lucy is also engaged in organizations such as St. Francis Borgia Parish, Washington Rotary Club, and the Mercy Hospital Foundation Board.

Lucy’s impact on her community and alma mater is immeasurable, making her a truly deserving recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award.”

Past Recipients

2023 – Ina “Cookie” Hays – Union – Higher Education
2022 – Tim Unnerstall – Washington – Business Management
2021 – Eric Park – Washington – Financial Planning
2020 – Scott Breckenkamp – Washington – Banking
2019 – Dorothy Schowe – New Haven – Public Relations
2018 – Ron Unnerstall – Washington – Engineer
2017 – Audrey Freitag – New Haven – Nurse
2016 – Dave Arand – Union – Attorney
2015 – Anthony “Tony” Kreutz – Union – Business Admin
2014 – Amy Wildhaber – Beaufort – ER Dept Manager
2013 – Joseph Purschke – Union – Attorney at Law
2012 – Linda Mahon – Union – History/Educator
2011 – Ted Coburn – Villa Ridge – Probation & Parole
2010 – Ann Schroeder – Union – Political Science
2009 – Chris Stuckenschneider – Washington – Journalism
2008 – Ken Schmidt – Union – Engineering
2007 – Tammy Watz – Sullivan – Allied Health
2007 – Dr. Frank Miller – Washington – Allied Health
2006 – Deborah Koelling – Washington – Education

Kolb Presented with Emerson’s Glass Apple for Excellence

May 9, 2024 | Campus News

Leigh Kolb’s unwavering dedication to her students and her contributions to the academic community have earned her the prestigious 2023 Emerson Excellence in Teaching award.

Kolb has been an Associate Professor of English and Journalism at East Central College for the past 15 years, thriving as a full-time faculty member during that time; while positively impacting countless students with her passion for literature, film, and journalism.

Her commitment to the craft of writing, coupled with her genuine care for each student, distinguishes her as an outstanding educator.

“Leigh embodies the essence of excellence in teaching,” remarked one colleague. “Her ability to connect literature with current events fosters engagement and personal interest in class discussions, leaving a lasting impact on her students.”

The Excellence in Teaching Awards program, sponsored by Emerson, annually recognizes educators in the St. Louis metropolitan area who are examples of excellence in their field. Recipients are selected by administrators of their school districts or educational institutions, and they receive a glass apple from Emerson.

In addition to her excellence in teaching, Kolb’s committee work and professional accomplishments are exemplary. She has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the student experience through assessment of both formal curriculum and co-curricular activities.

Kolb also spearheads the Film & Lecture Series, enriching communities through educational film screenings and scholarly discussions.

Additionally, Kolb continues to exercise her writing and critical thinking skills through contributions to pop culture and philosophy in magazines and books. Her recent work, “What Saves the World? Care and Ecofeminism,” is featured in the newly published book “Mad Max and Philosophy: Thinking Through the Wasteland.”

“Leigh is a passionate, dedicated, and effective teacher,” said one nominator. “She consistently creates an environment that encourages critical thinking and personal reflection, setting her students up for success both in and outside the classroom.”

The Emerson Excellence in Teaching award is a testament to Kolb’s commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Art Students Showcase Talents and Creativity at Exhibition

May 4, 2024 | Art Campus News

The annual East Central College Art and Design Student Exhibition showcased the remarkable talents of students from various disciplines demonstrating their creativity and skill.

The ECC Art Gallery buzzed with excitement during the April 25 reception as students and faculty gathered to celebrate the exceptional artwork on display.

Jennifer Higerd, Assistant Professor of Art and ECC Art Gallery Curator, and Sean Barton, Graphic Design Instructor and Art and Design Department Executive, presented awards to the talented winners in each category. They also acknowledged honorable mentions for their outstanding contributions.

Among the standout talents was Milo Guile, whose piece titled “Fallen Angel” earned him the highest recognition of “Best of Show.”

Milo’s achievement is exceptional given his previous success in last year’s exhibition with his wire art piece, “Coat Hanger,” which won Best of Show in the 2023 Exhibition.

The external juror, Sean Ramirez, a Senior Product Designer at Build-A-Bear Workshop, brought valuable expertise to the judging process. Prior to his current role, he contributed to the animation of beloved Disney films such as Mulan, Tarzan, Lilo and Stitch, and John Henry.

Below is the list of winners in each category:

Drawing — Maddi Jaegers, Bottles

Functional Ceramics — Christina Keeven, Fish Plate

Figure Drawing — Kayla Brinkmann, My Dome

Painting — Ash Marcus, Not an f* chicken*

2D Design — Angelique Holtmeyer, Catlusion

Illustration — Lann Remer, The Troll Emerges

Digital Design — Kayla Brinkmann, Moscow

Graphic Design — Hallelujah Medlock, Fruits of the Spirit

Sculpture — Carlie Shaw, Sweet Music

Film Photography — Miriam Bondor, Once upon a time

Printmaking — Hallelujah Medlock, Illuminated Tree

Honorable Mentions

Figure Drawing — Chae Keeney, Kimber

Painting — Amy Hervey, Shoes

Patron’s Picks

Continuing a tradition spanning over a decade, ECC’s Patrons of the Arts graciously supported our student artists by acquiring the following artworks to enrich the ECC Art Collection:

Ash Marcus – Not an f** Chicken

Carlie Shaw – Sweet Music

Desiree Delisi – The Overgrown

Hallelujah Medlock – Fruits of the Spirit

Hannah Pilarski – Brim

Lann Remer – Amalgamation of Consumerism

Maddi Jaegers – Mime

Connor Flaherty – Drift Away

Zoe Meyer – Sunset Clouds

Daisy Conquers ECC Spelling Bee Once Again

May 2, 2024 | Campus News

Daisy Fearn solidified her status as the “Queen Bee” at this year’s East Central College Regional Spelling Bee, showcasing her exceptional spelling skills once more.

Daisy, a sixth grader at Pacific Intermediate School, sat atop the winner’s stand, alone, on Saturday, April 27, for the 2024 spelling competition. Last year, she was named co-champion alongside then St. Francis Borgia Middle School eighth grader, Scott Harriman.

Daisy’s performance earned her a first-place trophy, a $100 cash prize, and the esteemed title of sole Spelling Bee champion for the year.

Held at the John Edson Anglin Performing Arts Center at ECC, the event was made possible by the ECC Foundation, and it was graciously sponsored by hth Companies, Inc., Union.

Accompanying Daisy in the winner’s circle were Lydia Christiansen, an eighth grader from St. Francis Borgia Grade School, who secured the second-place trophy and a $50 cash prize, and Elijah Rock, an eighth grader from Union Middle School, who clinched third place along with a third-place trophy and $25.

Stage decorations for this year’s Spelling Bee were provided by Andy’s Produce.

Spelling Bee Participants

In total, 23 participants showcased their spelling expertise at this year’s Bee. Among them, the top 10 finalists were honored with medals, representing various elementary and middle schools in the region:

Isabella Eudy, Immaculate Conception School; Cecilia Reed, Central Elementary; Gunnar Swebilius, Meramec Valley School District; Avery Jones, Our Lady of Lourdes; Mason Raney, Labadie Elementary; Lillie Barker, New Haven Middle School; and Landon Reagan, Washington Middle School.

Other participants in the Bee included Brant Copeland, Blain Dooley, Beau Miller, Bentley Sullentrup, Avery Eichmeyer, Jackson Evans, Abby Kallmbah, Leo Koti, L.J. Lapiz, Aiden Lehr, Jervin Mark, Rai Leigh Roberts, and Kendall von Wolfseck.

Participants in the Spelling Bee are determined at area elementary and middle schools, which send their school spelling bee champion to compete in the ECC Bee. Schools hold independent bees throughout the winter to select the top speller to represent them in the region.

Bee competitors are students in grades four through eighth. They do not advance to competition following the ECC Spelling Bee, but the regional bee gives students a chance to compete after the school-level competitions.

Organizers & Bee Officials

Dr. Jon Bauer, East Central College President, once again served as the pronouncer of the Bee.

The Spelling Bee judges were Pam Kaiser, program coordinator for ECC’s Center for Workforce Development; Sue Henderson, director of assessment and accreditation at Maryville University and former associate professor of English at ECC; and Linda Barro, ECC associate professor of English.

The Spelling Bee 2024 Steering Committee members are Jennifer Baker, Jennifer Hawkins, Bridgette Kelch, Patty Kellmann, Cassidy Desmond, Terri Ogle, and Cynthia Cubas.

Past Champions of The Bee

2023 – Daisy Fearn, Pacific Intermediate School; and Scott Harriman, St. Francis Borgia Middle School
2019 – Matthew Blomberg, Our Lady of Lourdes
2018 – Gabbie Helm, Our Lady of Lourdes
2017 – Max Grimes, Washington Middle School
2016 – Kelci Moore, Riverbend School
2015 – Samantha Doepker, Clearview Elementary School
2014 – Emily Braun, Union Middle School
2013 – Emily Braun, Union Middle School
2012 – McKenzie White, Meramec Valley Middle School
2011 – Ashley Roberts, St. Francis Borgia Grade School.

Future ECC Regional Spelling Bees are scheduled for the last Saturday in April each year. For more information, please contact the Foundation at Foundation@eastcentral.edu or call 636-584-6506.

ECC Employees Recognized with NISOD Excellence Awards

May 1, 2024 | Campus News

Three East Central College employees are being recognized for their dedication to students, the College and their coworkers with 2024 NISOD (National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development) Excellence Awards.

The ECC award recipients are Dr. Parvadha Acosta, Associate Professor, Biology; Chad Baldwin, Director of Online Learning & Educational Technology; and Megan Elbert, Executive Administrative Assistant, VP of Student Development.

NISOD is a professional development provider that offers programs and resources for community and technical colleges. Member colleges can recognize employees through the Excellence Awards, which are presented to faculty and staff who are doing extraordinary work on their campuses.

Award recipients receive a unique silver medallion engraved with The University of Texas and NISOD insignias and adorned with a burnt orange ribbon. NISOD is based out of the University of Texas in Austin.

Each recipient was nominated for this award by a colleague and selected by the administrative team after the nominations were reviewed.

“On behalf of the entire institution, I offer my heartfelt thanks to each of these individuals for the service they provide daily to ECC students and to their colleagues,” said ECC President Dr. Jon Bauer. “Job well done and recognition well deserved.”

Below are comments about each recipient from their nominations.

Dr. Parvadha Acosta

“Dr. Acosta has grown in her role as faculty, becoming one of ECC’s strongest student advocates,” her nomination reads.

“She is an active supporter of faculty professional development and took on a leadership role in ECC’s faculty professional development’s first ever Chew On This watch party and discussion. Her commitment to the community shows in her leadership of ECC’s Earth Day and United Way.”

Chad Baldwin

“Chad is the backbone of our online learning world,” his nominator wrote. “He’s the wizard who makes sure online classes run like a well-oiled machine.

“Chad is not just a tech genius; he’s a game-changer for ECC and the man who keeps us on track and makes our online learning experience top-notch!”

Megan Elbert

“Megan does the big things and little things to make people feel supported and welcomed. She many times is a go to person for support as she is extremely good at making individuals feel heard and seen,” Megan’s nomination states.

“Staff turn to her when they need advice or guidance. She has served on many key college committees and roles such as the insurance committee, the compensation committee, multiple board policy review teams, and served as a strategic planning tri-chair just to name a few. Megan provides service for our students both behind the scenes and on the front lines.”

ECC Rolla Students Recognized During Achievement Night

April 30, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

East Central College students were recently honored at the Rolla Student Achievement Night for their exceptional accomplishments, leadership, and academic prowess throughout the academic year.

Hosted annually by the Office of Campus Life and Leadership and the Rolla Engagement Council, this year’s Achievement Night took place on April 24.

Students are nominated for awards by faculty to acknowledge academic excellence, perseverance, and contributions to a culture of student success, both inside and outside the classroom.

Outstanding Student Leader:

Alicia Ramirez, Student Nurses Organization

Collaborative Excellence Award:

Emma Willison, Student Nurse Organization

Spirited Falcon Award:

Dana Lawson, Allied Health Department, Radiologic Technology Program
Dakoyta Hendrix, Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

Inductees into the National Adult Education Honor Society:

Zoe Wells
Shaielynn Cox

Club Officer Recognition:

Bryan Lambeth, Student Nurse Organization
Alaina Sy, Student Government Association
Gabrielle McDonald, Student Government Association
Adrianne Parks, Student Government Association

Academic Distinction:

Jordon Taylor
Alejandra De Luna
Mary Romine
Logan Metzen
Dekowta Coons
Jonathan Metzen
Cristin Foster
Samantha Britton
Tim Ringeisen
Brooke Busenitz
Anabell Borrok
Amy Studdard
Moriah Renaud
Kayla Brown
Ty Locklear
Mo Greenlee

Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robyn Walter at podium, announcing awards

ECC Students Recognized for Achievements During Academic Year

April 30, 2024 | Campus News

East Central College faculty, staff, and administrators recognized many students for their outstanding accomplishments in the past academic year, both inside and outside the classroom.

The ECC Campus Life and Leadership’s annual Student Achievement Night on May 23 was an opportunity to recognize students for leadership, academic excellence, club engagement, success in the classroom, and as student employees.

Academic Excellence Award:

The Vice President’s Academic Excellence Award was presented to Joey Guyton. This prestigious award recognizes one student each year who demonstrates exemplary academic excellence during their time at ECC. The recipient must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.4, and they must be nominated by a department chair. All nominations were submitted to the College vice presidents for consideration. The award was presented by Dr. Robyn Walter, Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Outstanding Student Leader:

Augast Haddad was chosen as the 2024 outstanding student leader. She was nominated for her work and leadership as the Student Government Association president. The award recognizes one student for exceptional leadership skills and abilities.

Collaborative Excellence:

This award was presented to Katie Johnsen in the Health Information Management program. Johnsen was nominated for this prestigious award by Kimberly Daman-Scheel, HIM Program Director.

Club Officer Awards:

The awards for club officers are given to student leaders for their contributions as stewards of student engagement on campus. Students are nominated by club advisors. The following students were recognized for their service as club officers:

August Haddad, Student Government Association President
Taylor Sikes, Student Government Association Vice President
Mary Daily, Phi Theta Kappa President, Chi Delta Chapter
Maxwell Reeves, Phi Theta Kappa Executive Vice President, Chi Delta Chapter
Sarah O’Bannon, Phi Theta Kappa Vice President for Public Relations, Chi Delta Chapter
Enoch Schloeman, Phi Theta Kappa Vice President for Chapter Programs, Chi Delta Chapter
Nicholas Rucker, Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished Chapter Member, Chi Delta Chapter
Adrian Smith, Rotaract Club President & Member of the Year
Hunter Sperry, Rotaract Club Vice President
Nicholas Rucker, Sergeant-at-Arms, Rotaract Club Vice President

Academic Distinction

Awards of academic distinction are given by faculty members for students exhibiting excellence in academics. Though these students will likely have a high mark in the gradebook, a student chosen for this award should also demonstrate an understanding of the course material, be an active participant in class, and contribute to the larger culture of succeeding and high-level thinking in the classroom. The following students were given awards for academic distinction:

Evan Laurent, Statistics
Ava Overschmidt, Intermediate Algebra
Sophia Voss, Math for Fine and Performing Arts
Brian Blackmon, Welding
Casey Smurphat, Welding
Mitchell J. Ginger, Welding
Kaitlyn Donovan, Medical Terminology
Aaron David Bounds, English Composition II
Mark Grotewiel, Doyle Stricklin Award for Outstanding Performance in Accounting
McKenna Tyree, Outstanding Performance in Business Award
Adelaine Peters, Welding
Paige Dobsch, English
Ingrid Cordova, English
Taylor Lindemann, English
Jackson Briggs, English
Kaylee Miller, English
Peyton Campbell, English and Humanities
Kevin Corley, English and Humanities
Mary Daily, English and Humanities

Spirited Falcon Award

The ECC Spirited Falcon awards are given to students in recognition of perseverance, a consistent willingness to learn and improve, and measured improvement.

This award is designed to honor students who, despite any obstacles they may face during their semester, demonstrated a continued commitment to their education and success as a student.

The following students were given Spirited Falcon awards:

Summer Fisher, Nursing
Sarah Price, Nursing
Joey Guyton, Nursing
Kirsten Rich, Falcon Seminar
Dalton Cruzen, English and Humanities
Tyrell Burrell Sanders, English and Humanities
Faith Skaggs, English
Hanna Goehlich, Welding
Nicole Pope, Arts and Humanities, London Spring Break
Shayne Harrington, Arts and Humanities, London Spring Break
Max Johnson, Arts and Humanities, London Spring Break
Elijah Long, Arts and Humanities, London Spring Break
Lauren Hoey, Arts and Humanities, London Spring Break
Hallelujah Medlock, Arts and Humanities, London Spring Break
Sabren Mastin, Arts and Humanities, London Spring Break

NAE Honor Society

Adult Education and Literacy students who were recently inducted into the were honored at Student Achievement Night.

The following students were inducted into NAEHS:

Phoenix Boyer
Precious Stovall
Merideth Green
Diana Rivas
Madan Singh
Patrick Alphonse
Alma Hernandez
Ratti Ram
Jonathon Cox
Mari Lourdes Woodfin
Jana Oldfather
Alexandria Madewell

Adult Education and Literacy students in NAE Honor Society

Eoloff to Address ECC Class of 2024

April 21, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Eric Eoloff, President of Mercy Washington and Lincoln communities, will deliver the commencement address at East Central College’s graduation ceremony on May 11. Since 2016, Eoloff has served in his role at Mercy Washington, the largest employer in Franklin County, overseeing the operations of Mercy’s clinics and hospital in the Four Rivers area.

ECC’s 54th Commencement ceremony will be inside the College gym in the Donald D. Shook Student Center on the Union campus, starting at noon. Attendees are urged to be in the gym by noon. There will be no entry once the processional begins.

In anticipation of the ceremony, Eoloff expressed his appreciation for ECC and its role in nurturing professionals across various career paths.

He emphasized the college’s focus on practical training and partnerships with local facilities, which not only prepare students for success but also contribute to the overall health consciousness of the community.

“I greatly appreciate East Central College in our community for its commitment to nurturing talent,” Eoloff said. “The college’s emphasis on practical training and partnerships ensures a pipeline of skilled professionals and fosters a sense of community health consciousness that aligns seamlessly with our hospital’s mission.”

Furthermore, Eoloff highlighted Mercy’s longstanding partnership with ECC, facilitating the delivery of healthcare services in Franklin County and neighboring areas. He expressed eagerness to recruit ECC graduates, citing their readiness and often, prior experience in clinical settings.

“Mercy enjoys our longstanding partnership with ECC. It allows more services to be delivered locally here in greater Franklin County and neighboring counties. We are eager to hire ECC graduates because they come to us well-prepared and, quite often, already experienced in our settings.”

Background on Eoloff

Before assuming his current position, Eoloff held various leadership positions within Mercy, including Chief Operating Officer of Mercy Hospital St. Louis and President of Mercy Laboratories. His extensive tenure at Mercy, a healthcare system spanning 45 acute care hospitals and over 1,000 physician practices across multiple states, reflects his commitment to advancing excellence.

He holds a master’s degree in healthcare administration from the University of Minnesota and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. Eoloff is dedicated to fostering talent in the field and serves as a distinguished leader.

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Eric and his wife, Gina, have six children and three grandchildren.

For more information about the commencement ceremony and East Central College, visit www.eastcentral.edu.

ECC’s HIM Program Offers Flexible Schedule, Various Employment Fields

April 19, 2024 | Campus News ECC Rolla

Flexibility is a central focus of East Central College’s Health Information Management (HIM) program.

The program’s appeal lies in its flexible schedule and online coursework, and flexibility for graduates to choose a variety of career paths, spanning various employment fields.

Kim Scheel, the HIM Program Director, highlights HIM’s broad scope, which encompasses administrative, operational, and clinical aspects of healthcare. HIM specialists play a crucial role in ensuring quality patient care. They are responsible for managing information at every stage of healthcare delivery.

Graduates of the HIM program can work in diverse settings, including hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and government agencies. Additionally, ECC now offers an exciting new Healthcare Security Certificate of Specialization within the HIM program.

ECC students in the HIM program can also start the program at any time, lending the additional flexibility, Scheel added.

For more information about ECC and the HIM program, visit here or contact Scheel at kim.daman-scheel@eastcentral.edu or 636-584-6662.

ECC Student Testimonials

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) acknowledges the contributions of HIM professionals during the annual Health Information Professionals (HIP) Week, April 15-19, and HIM ECC students like Madeline Baird and Rodney Grouns.

Baird, from Marthasville, a stay-at-home mom, found the HIM program ideal for her situation. She sought a career that would allow her to work remotely while caring for her children.

“I waited a while to find something that fit my lifestyle perfectly and the HIM program did just that,” Baird said. “I knew I wanted to do something medical but also administrative, so I think it is a great happy medium.”

Grouns, on the other hand, transitioned to HIM after a family tragedy prompted him to reconsider his career path.

“After obtaining success in the retail sales sector, my wife unexpectedly passed leaving me to raise our daughter alone,” he commented. “I soon recognized that if I was to remain in my current field, I would not be able to be present in my daughter’s life.”

Grouns was pointed to the HIM program by those already in the health information sector.

“I realized that the occupation, hours and the time frame to obtain a two-year degree from ECC fit in with my time frame and budget.”

Baird, who will graduate in May with an Associate of Arts, an Associate of Applied Science, and a Certificate of Achievement in Health Information Management, plans to work from home while her children are young.

“In the long run, I would love to be a manager of a healthcare facility,” she added. “Hopefully a pediatric setting.”

Grouns plans to complete the HIM program in the Spring to Summer 2025 and then work at a local hospital.

“I plan on gaining experience and explore further education, if necessary, to scale into a leadership position,” he commented.

Students’ Recommendation

Both students recommend ECC’s HIM program to those uncertain about their career paths. They highlight the program’s flexibility and the multitude of career opportunities it offers.

“The schedule is very flexible, and there are so many directions you can take your career,” Baird said. “If you want to do medical billing or coding you can, or if you eventually want to take your career into managing a facility and employees that is also an option.”

“If you are unsure of what type of degree you want to pursue, I recommend this HIM program for sure,” Grouns noted. “You will obtain a degree that qualifies you for higher compensation than most other two-year degrees.”

“The Health Information field is in high demand right now,” he added. “ECC has very affordable classes, so you won’t be left with a bunch of student debt, making it easier to start you post-college life.”

Grouns further added that the courses are challenging, but manageable, and worth it for the education students receive.

“I have been out of school for over a decade, but the teachers are very organized, dedicated and willing to help,” he said. “The classes are online for the most part, which is very convenient for someone like me who has a young child to care for as well and a part time job.”

RHIT Exam

The HIM program at ECC prepares students for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam, paving the way for professional certification. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM), ECC’s HIM program meets industry standards.

Every year, ECC students outperform the national average score on the RHIT exam. In 2022-2023, ECC students’ pass rate was 83 percent, higher than the national pass rater of 80 percent. While those numbers may not seem high, achieving an 83 percent pass rate is excellent, especially considering the difficulty of the exam.