As we celebrate another successful academic year, I am reminded that the work we do in Medical Laboratory Sciences extends far beyond the classroom. Every graduate we prepare, every professional we help advance and every innovation we bring to teaching ultimately strengthens the health care workforce at a time when skilled laboratory professionals are needed more than ever.

This spring, we proudly celebrated the Class of 2026, a remarkable group of students now stepping into laboratories, hospitals and health care systems where their expertise will directly impact patient care. Their success reflects the dedication of our faculty, clinical partners and staff, all of whom share a commitment to preparing highly qualified professionals for a rapidly evolving field.

That commitment to excellence also drives how we teach. Our faculty continue to explore innovative approaches that help students connect complex scientific concepts to real-world clinical practice. From integrated case-based laboratory experiences to the use of 3D molecular models, we’re advancing the science of how students learn while ensuring they’re ready to meet the demands of today’s laboratory environment.

We recognize that building tomorrow’s workforce requires creating opportunities for professionals already working in the field. Our fully online MLS degree completion program continues to help certified medical laboratory technicians advance their careers while balancing work, family and other responsibilities. With strong student outcomes and growing enrollment, the program is helping experienced professionals gain the knowledge and credentials needed for leadership and advanced laboratory roles – while helping address critical workforce shortages nationwide.

We also are equally committed to expanding awareness of the profession itself. Through initiatives such as our new public health laboratory summer program, we’re introducing students to career opportunities they might never have considered and helping build a stronger pipeline of future lab professionals.

Whether through innovative teaching, flexible pathways for working professionals or outreach to future students, our mission remains the same: preparing the next generation of laboratory scientists who will safeguard patient health and strengthen communities.

Thank you for your continued support of our students, faculty and programs. Together, we’re helping ensure that the laboratory workforce remains strong, resilient and ready to meet the challenges ahead.

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Melissa Jamerson, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences