HANCEVILLE, Ala. – Wallace State Community College celebrated the Respiratory Therapy Class of 2026 during a recent pinning ceremony recognizing 30 graduates transitioning from students to professional caregivers.
Program Director Ashley Lancaster opened the ceremony by emphasizing the significance of the milestone. “While graduation highlights the completion of academic study, this pinning ceremony marks your important transition from student to respiratory therapist,” she said.
Class Representative Emma Bice delivered the invocation. “We are grateful for the friendships that have strengthened us, for the mentors who have guided us, and for the loved ones who have supported and believed in us,” Bice said, asking for continued guidance as graduates begin their careers.
Class President Jarrett Peeples addressed his classmates, highlighting the journey they shared. “The program wasn’t easy… but we showed up for each other, helped one another study, and learned together,” Peeples said. He encouraged his peers to move forward with confidence: “Class of 2026, let’s go out there and be great Respiratory Therapists.”
Respiratory Therapy instructor Jennifer Arbona served as guest speaker and reminded the graduates of the importance of the work they will be doing. “You enter people’s lives at some of their most critical, vulnerable moments — when every breath matters,” Arbona said. “You don’t just treat lungs — you care for people, families and moments that will never be forgotten.”
Arbona congratulated the graduates on their success. “That didn’t happen by accident — it happened because you showed up, again and again, even when it was hard,” she said, encouraging graduates to continue learning and to remember why they chose the profession.
During the ceremony, students were individually recognized and ceremonially pinned, symbolizing their readiness to join the respiratory care profession following completion of their board exams.
The program also honored outstanding students with recognition awards. Clinical Director Tabatha Tatum highlighted the importance of the profession and the achievements of the class. “Respiratory therapy isn’t just about lungs, ventilators or oxygen levels — it’s about relief, trust, and helping someone take the next breath,” she said.
Awards presented include:
- Respiratory Therapy Program Excellence Award: Jarrett Peeples
- Academic Excellence Award: Jada Butler
- Lambda Beta Honor Society Inductees: Jada Butler, Jarrett Peeples
- Clinical Excellence Award: Ben Waid
The Respiratory Therapy program is accepting applications for Fall 2026 entry through June 1. For more information, visit www.wallacestate.edu/respiratory-therapy or contact Jennifer Craig at 256-352-8307 or Jennifer.craig@wallacestate.edu.
