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�ֲ���ý secures funding to strengthen respiratory care clinical training

Published on Jan 5, 2026

�ֲ���ý has secured funding to enhance clinical training for students in its Respiratory Care program through our continued UK St. Claire partnership, supported by the Sisters of Notre Dame Eastern Kentucky Foundation.

The funding will support the implementation of Clinical Trac, a clinical education management system. Clinical Trac modernizes the tracking of clinical hours, competencies, and evaluations, ensuring accurate documentation, real-time feedback, and full alignment with accreditation requirements.

Through this initiative, students will benefit from streamlined clinical hour tracking, verified attendance, timely evaluations from faculty and clinical preceptors, and improved coordination across clinical sites. By removing the cost of individual licenses, the project also reduces financial barriers for students and promotes equitable access to essential training tools.

“This investment strengthens both student success and workforce readiness,” said Dr. Shana Savard-Hogge, Associate Director of Grants at �ֲ���ý. “By modernizing clinical tracking, faculty can focus more on coaching and competency development while students gain confidence that their clinical experience is accurately documented and aligned with professional standards.”

The project also reflects strong community collaboration. Judge Harry T. Clark, Rowan County Judge/Executive, served as the community reference for the application, underscoring local support for strengthening healthcare education and workforce development in Eastern Kentucky.

�ֲ���ý leadership, faculty, and healthcare partners continue to work collaboratively to expand high-quality, workforce-aligned education that addresses regional healthcare needs. This project directly supports the preparation of skilled respiratory therapists who are critical to serving rural communities facing high rates of chronic respiratory illness.