STUDENTS LYNN LANGER
Transformed Journeys
EMILY ROESSLER
The power of partnerships continues to fuel Blackhawk Technical College’s growth and sustainability. Most recently, Blackhawk and Mercyhealth joined forces through a new scholars program that awards full-ride scholarships to students in programs that will lead to a career in healthcare. The scholarship program, named Mercyhealth – Making Lives Better Scholarship and established in partnership with the Blackhawk Technical College Foundation, includes tuition, fees and books, and is awarded to a cohort of students each spring semester. Mercyhealth donates $40,000 each year to fund the scholarships and provide paid internships at Mercyhealth locations in positions that align with the scholarship recipients’ program of studies. “We are grateful for Mercyhealth’s partnership and generosity as we work together to prepare future health care workers,” said Dr. Tracy Pierner, President of Blackhawk. “This scholarship is a powerful way to ease financial burdens and set students up for success in the health care industry. The added internship component of this program ensures that the students gain valuable real-world experience.” Four students were chosen last spring as the scholarship program’s first recipients. To be considered for the scholarship, students needed to be enrolled in a minimum of six credits and in either Nursing, Radiography, Surgical Technology, Culinary Arts or Phlebotomy Technician. Preference was given to students who demonstrated a financial need.
LINH TRINH – Radiography
LINH TRINH
In 2021, Linh Trinh found herself drawn to the world of medical imaging. After her father’s near-fatal battle with COVID-19, Linh discovered a connection to radiography, a field that became a source of hope for her family. Witnessing the daily improvements on her father’s chest x-rays ignited a passion for medical imaging that eventually led her to pursue a new educational journey. A native of Beloit, Linh initially graduated from University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree. However, feeling disconnected and unsure of her path, she realized the need for a change. Her father’s journey prompted her decision to return to school. Choosing Blackhawk for its small class sizes, personalized learning opportunities, and effective teaching methods, Linh said she appreciates the ability to be a hands-on learner. As a recipient of the Mercyhealth – Making Lives Better Scholarship, Linh has been working as a radiography intern.
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Winter/Spring 2024
MICHAEL DURAN
“I like being able to practice, practice, practice and learn from my mistakes at school with my instructors, then master the skill directly in the field,” she said. “I’m grateful for this scholarship and the experiences that have come with it.” With her eye on graduation in 2024, Linh then plans to apply for Blackhawk’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology program.