May. 23, 2017
The Weber State University Department of Radiologic Sciences, under the leadership of Department Chair and Professor Robert J. Walker, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(MR)(CT)(QM), FASRT, has been named one of the best radiologic technology training programs in the U.S. by AuntMinnie.com. Founded in 1889 in Ogden, Utah, the university has more than 26,000 students, and the radiologic sciences department is the second-largest graduation unit. Graduates of this department have a 95% or better pass rate on national certification examinations.
The department offers associate and bachelor’s degrees, with more than 80% of their students who earn an associate degree going on to complete a bachelor’s degree in advanced imaging. Weber State University also offers one of the very few radiologic sciences master's programs in the country.
In recent years, the faculty at Weber State University has seen the need for more globally engaged and culturally aware R.T.s increase. With this in mind, Dr. Walker and the rest of the department faculty wanted to create an opportunity for students to build their careers by developing the social skills necessary to meet this growing need.
When he learned of the different ways to get involved in the Celebration Campaign, Dr. Walker realized it was the perfect opportunity for the department to take action. With their $50,000 gift to the Campaign, they established a permanent endowment called the Student Global Engagement Scholarship Fund, which will provide students with support to study abroad.
“This may be the only scholarship of its kind created with funds from a university and administered by a foundation established by a professional society,” said Dr. Walker. “Our department is self-sustaining and makes money. This left us in the remarkable position to do something to give students the tools they need to be successful in the future.”
Dr. Walker and his faculty members believe that global engagement is a vital part of the future of the medical imaging and radiation therapy profession and that having students travel abroad will promote diversity. They are convinced that opportunities like the one they created will help students develop a better understanding of patients from diverse backgrounds, which will translate into better patient care.
“We are proud to partner with the Foundation in this Campaign,” he said. “Working with them to create a brighter tomorrow for R.T.s and the patients we serve. It’s great knowing that by being a part of this we are helping our beloved profession have a strong future.”