Celebrating Our Newest GROW! Mammography Scholarship Recipients

It’s been a year since we partnered with the GROW! Mammography Scholarship to address the shortage of mammographers by offering two all-expenses-paid scholarships for AHEC’s Mammography Initial Training program. Since the program’s inception, we’ve previously awarded four incredible recipients. For the upcoming October 2024 class, we are thrilled to announce two more additions to our?Mammography Initial Training alumni. Darci McCool Cedars and Morgan Coulter both demonstrate exceptional passion and commitment to advancing their careers in mammography.

Each scholarship is awarded to two radiologic technologists—one recent graduate and one seasoned professional. Each recipient receives full tuition for our Mammography Initial Training class, round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations, and a daily stipend. For the October 2024 class, Darci and Morgan stood out to the selection committee for their unique backgrounds, personal journeys, and commitment to the field.

Darci McCool Cedars, a recent Radiologic Sciences graduate from Northwestern State University of Louisiana, embodies a deep sense of purpose and determination as she enters her career. Darci shared that her passion for imaging, especially in the early detection of breast cancer. “The opportunity to contribute to the early detection of breast cancer, and potentially saving lives, ignited a fire within me,” Darci wrote in her essay. “The GROW! Mammography Scholarship is more than just financial support; it represents an opportunity to receive comprehensive training, valuable clinical experience, and the MQSA qualification, which are all essential components for a successful career in mammography.”

Darci is not only focused on the technical aspects of mammography but is also passionate about patient care. “I believe in providing compassionate and empathetic relationships with patients, ensuring their comfort and peace of mind throughout the imaging process,” she added. With a strong commitment to community health and breast cancer awareness, Darci’s enthusiasm and dedication make her an ideal candidate to help meet the growing need for mammography services.

Our second recipient, Morgan Coulter, is a seasoned radiologic technologist from Howard Memorial Hospital in Nashville, Arkansas. Morgan’s essay revealed her profound personal connection to mammography, shaped by her experiences with breast cancer in her family. “Like most people, breast cancer has impacted my life in several ways,” she shared. “The experience that really impacted me the most was when my Grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. I watched her go through treatment and the emotional toll it took on her. I want to be part of the team that helps diagnose this disease.”

Morgan also highlighted the pressing need for mammography services in her rural Arkansas community, where finding radiographers can be challenging. “We are trying to build our Mammography team, and I know that I will be a great addition,” Morgan wrote. “Our department needs to be fully staffed to meet the needs of our community, and I know that I can create a positive experience for patients who are anxious and worried about their outcomes.”

In addition to her professional goals, Morgan is driven by her desire to set an example for her daughters. “I now have three beautiful daughters, and I want to show them the importance of career growth,” she explained. “I want to look back and know that I have done all that I can to provide them with the best childhood possible and give them the tools they need to be successful young women.”

Both Darci and Morgan exemplify the spirit of dedication and growth that the GROW! Mammography Scholarship aims to support. We are thrilled to welcome these two bright technologists to our Mammography Initial Training program and look forward to seeing their contributions to the field of mammography and patient care.

For more information about the GROW! Mammography scholarship, click here.