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40 Years of Growth and Success in Building the Work Force
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President Charles Scriven, staff, and students gather around the birthday cake Sept. 17 for a celebration of Kettering College’s 40 years of success. |
In 1967, Kettering College of Medical Arts opened its doors to just over 100 freshmen. Forty years later, boasting an enrollment of more than 800 students and graduating a record class of 237 this past spring, Kettering College continues to grow.
In the early years, Virginia W. Kettering spoke of her vision for Kettering Medical Center, which included an educational component.
“It will be necessary,” she said, “for the hospital to become involved in preparing young people for satisfying lives of service here and in the other institutions in various parts of the world.”
The students, faculty, and leadership of Kettering College are affirming that vision for Mrs. Kettering.
In the Beginning…
From its humble beginnings, when it offered just three associate’s degree programs, Kettering College has significantly increased its educational offerings, now including bachelor’s and master’s degrees. With the opening of the $22 million Boonshoft Center for Medical Sciences in August 2006, an enhanced learning environment accommodates the growing student body.
Another advantage for students is the College’s proximity to Kettering Medical Center. Nationally, only 50 other medical colleges are adjacent to major medical centers. Students receive exposure to realistic clinical settings on a daily basis.
Graduates Contribute to Society
With health care services in such great demand, Kettering College’s mission to build the work force is both a service and a necessity in the community and in the world.
“These days, health care graduates are indispensable,” says Charles Scriven, Kettering College president. “Practically anywhere in the country, our graduates are finding work that is satisfying and pays well. I am proud to lead an organization that contributes so much that is so important to our society.”
While KCMA graduates are finding work across the nation, 60 to 70 percent of the College’s 5,000 graduates have remained in Ohio. In fact, many graduates live and work in the greater Dayton region, serving the community right in the College’s back yard.
Demand Brings Growth and Success
Continual change in the health care industry has brought an even greater demand for health care professionals. Advances in technology have created new fields of specialization, such as medical sonography; new jobs such as physician assistants have come about. Kettering College has responded in kind, providing the programs that prepare graduates for these important professions.
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During the 40th anniversary festivities, guests, faculty, staff, students, and alumni offered congratulatory remarks and best wishes on an extra-large birthday card. |
The College also is committed to lifelong learning in the health professions. KCMA’s Division of Extension Education and Professional Training offers short-term, high-intensity classes as part of non-degree certificate programs. Kettering College also works in partnership with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to develop on-base programs that enable military-trained medical assistants to complete their Associate of Science in nursing degrees, with the end results being for them to stay in the Dayton area. KCMA’s “RN-to-BSN” program provides class schedules that accommodate nursing professionals’ busy work schedules and home activities so they can complete their degrees in a convenient, timely manner.
Kettering College has achieved much and received many blessings in its 40 remarkable years. As 2007 comes to a close, the students, staff, and faculty of Kettering College begin the decade-long journey to the next milestone event–the 50th anniversary. |
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