Contact:
Sheila Smith
Radiologic Science Div.
919-209-2033

Nancy Bailey
Webmaster
919-209-2178

January 14, 2002

The Medical Imaging (Radiography, Sonography, CT/MRI) Program of Johnston Community College has been awarded a $125,000 grant by the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust of Winston-Salem, Sheila W. Smith, MED, RT, program chair, said today.

"During the past 29 years, our Medical Imaging Division has grown from one classroom and an 'old' World War II Army x-ray unit for student practice to a full wing of the new Health and Sciences Building," she said.

The funds will be used to add resources to the college's computed tomography and magnetic resonance CT/MRI program.

The funded project is a consortium effort between Johnston Community College and Edgecombe Community College that seeks to provide training and certification for students in the fields of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for students who have already earned diplomas in radiography.  The CT/MRI project is the first consortium project of its kind in North Carolina and carries the full approval of the North Carolina Department of Community Colleges.  The program is unique and cost effective as it utilizes the CT/MRI facilities at partnering hospitals to provide "real world" scenarios and practical experiences with equipment that is at least the standard in the field.

"There is a grave need for imaging professionals in all aspects of the medical profession, particularly highly skilled CT/MRI professionals," Smith said.

Johnston Community College was founded in 1969 and has graduated a multitude of students who are providing quality health care in Johnston, Wayne, Harnett, and Wake counties.  Lyn Austin is the chair of the JCC board of trustees.

The Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust was created in 1947 by the will of Mrs. William N. Reynolds of Winston-Salem.  Three-fourths of the income of the trust is designated for use for health-related programs and services across North Carolina and one-fourth for the poor and needy of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County.