Paramedic Class 104 Graduation
Publish Date: Jan. 17, 2025
On January 17, 2025, Crafton Hills College celebrated the graduation of Paramedic Class 104 in a ceremony that honored the graduates’ dedication, resilience, and compassion. Friends, family, faculty, and staff gathered to commemorate the graduates’ achievements and welcome them into the esteemed profession of paramedicine.
The evening began with an introduction by Paramedic Field Coordinator Glen Thronson, who expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of Dr. Phong Nguyen, the program's medical director since 1988. Dr. Nguyen then reflected on the graduates' transformation from overwhelmed students to confident paramedics. “You are now part of a tradition of excellence,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability in medicine. Dr. Nguyen concluded his remarks with a playful singing of a song adapted for celebrating the event, now a local tradition for Dr. Nguyen’s ceremonial duties.
Simulation Lab Technician Craig Eilander, chosen by the class as their guest speaker, delivered an emotional and empowering address. As a skilled paramedic and lab tech, Eilander has been a pillar of support for students, offering encouragement and wisdom throughout their journey. “You are intelligent, skilled, compassionate, and brave,” he told the graduates. “Lay your brick on the foundation of those who came before you and make your mark.”
Class President Armand Crisol and Vice President Bryce Coatney represented their peers with motivational words that resonated with the graduates. Crisol highlighted the collective perseverance and the transformative journey the class undertook together. “We began this program as individuals, but we leave as a team, ready to make a difference,” he said, reminding classmates of their responsibility to serve with humility and integrity.
Coatney delivered heartfelt remarks, urging graduates to embrace their calling with courage and resilience. He ended his remarks with three powerful words, also the adopted class motto: “Decide, Commit, Succeed.”
The ceremony included the following awards recognizing outstanding achievements:
- Medical Director Award: Ashton Chaconas
- Dr Nguyen Paramedic Achievement Award: Roland Thissen and Anthony Medina
- Dr Nguyen Scholarship Award: Konner Beardsley
- Cardiology Award: Sebastian Lopez-Vega
- Field Award: Armand Crisol
- Theory Award: Alexander Williams
- Clinical Award: Konner Beardsley
- Pharmacology Award: Eduardo Sanchez
- Skills Award: Bryce Coatney and Konner Beardsley
- Patient Assessment Award: Peter Houle
Additionally, graduates Konner Beardsley and Lucas Esquer received scholarships for their exceptional dedication to paramedicine.
In closing, the faculty encouraged graduates to remain connected with the program and support future paramedics. Dr. Nguyen’s heartfelt plea to “give back” underscored the importance of fostering a community dedicated to excellence in paramedicine.
Congratulations, Paramedic Class 104, on a remarkable achievement!
