SCC Respiratory Therapy student named August Student of the Month

Published on Aug 27, 2025

The Somerset Community College (SCC) Health Sciences Division proudly announces that Bethany Collins, a dedicated student enrolled in the Respiratory Therapy Program, has been honored as the Student of the Month for August. As a recipient of this distinction, Collins has also earned candidacy for the coveted Student of the Year Award, which will be revealed in May 2026.

Respiratory therapists play a vital role in the healthcare team, providing essential treatments to patients affected by cardiopulmonary disorders. The demand for respiratory therapists is on the rise, with opportunities available across various settings, including hospitals and specialized cardiopulmonary care facilities, both regionally and nationally.

A recent graduate of Knox County High School, Collins has expressed her enthusiasm for the Respiratory Therapy Program and the exceptional faculty guiding her journey. "I have always wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. When my advisor discussed different options, respiratory therapy immediately caught my interest,” she shared. “The faculty are not only remarkable instructors but are also genuinely committed to helping us succeed.”

Program Director Angie Mills commended Collins for her outstanding dedication: “Bethany has consistently exemplified excellence in both academic and clinical performance, showcasing her strong commitment to the respiratory therapy profession. She approaches every learning experience with professionalism, integrity, and an undeniable passion for the field. Bethany’s hard work on exams, her skillful performance during labs and clinical rotations, and her willingness to support her classmates truly make her a role model in our program.”

Currently, Collins serves as a Student Respiratory Therapist at Rockcastle Regional Hospital and Respiratory Care Center. She resides in London with her husband, Cameron, and their three daughters, Baylee, Emma, and Blakelyn. Scheduled to graduate in May 2026, Collins is also contemplating furthering her education with a higher degree.

For more information about the Respiratory Therapy Program at Somerset Community College, please contact angie.mills@kctcs.edu.