Delaware Technical and Community College honored graduates of its Radiologic Technology program during a pinning ceremony held on May 7 at the George Campus in Wilmington. The event recognized the achievements of the Class of 2026 as they prepare to begin their careers as radiologic technologists.
The ceremony marked an important milestone for students entering the healthcare field, highlighting their training in X-ray equipment operation, imaging techniques, patient positioning, radiation safety protocols, and quality patient care. Many graduates will work in hospital radiology departments, outpatient imaging centers, or physicians’ offices throughout the region. Some may pursue further education in areas such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging or Computed Tomography imaging.
Jessica Santiago, manager of Imaging Services at ChristianaCare’s Newark and Middletown Emergency Department campuses and a graduate of Delaware Tech’s program, served as guest speaker. “Today is only the beginning,” Santiago said. “You have more opportunities ahead of you than you may even realize.” She also told graduates: “Be proud of how hard you worked to get here, believe in yourself and the skills you built, and never stop learning and growing.”
Graduate Azhar Alfalahi spoke on behalf of her classmates during the event. She expressed gratitude to family members, donors, instructors, and supporters who contributed to their success. Reflecting on her family’s immigration from Yemen and her journey through the program she said: “Over 146 hours and 55 minutes of clinicals, we were being shaped — not just in our skills, but in who we are becoming… In surgery, we are the eyes of the surgeon… Even as students… we were saving lives… In the midst of it all, we built friendships, faced challenges, and kept showing up no matter what.”
Each graduate received a program pin symbolizing their knowledge and readiness for service in medical imaging. Dr. Lora Johnson, vice president and campus director for Wilmington campus said: “The pin you receive symbolizes far more than the completion of this program… It reflects the hard work and sacrifices you made to complete this rigorous program… all the hours studying… early mornings and late nights… challenges overcome… commitment to becoming professionals that will make a difference in people’s lives.”
