Program Director Advocates For Competency in Medical Imaging
Meet Roger F. Weeden
Director of Imaging Sciences
Medical imaging and healthcare have long been a primary focus for Roger F. Weeden. Now he's bringing his visionary ideas and expertise to Northeast College as the new director of imaging sciences program development.
"I was attracted to radiology and healthcare after being injured at a ski resort and receiving imaging services," Weeden said. "I inquired about education and was surprised and lucky to learn of the program [at a hospital in Rutland, Vermont]." Weeden went on to earn undergraduate degrees in radiological sciences, English, business finance, and nursing, as well as an M.S. degree in business and health administration and a doctor of management degree in organizations leadership.
His educational experiences prepared him for a successful career as the director for radiology programs at the College of St. Joseph and later at Vermont Technical College, building academic programs from the ground up. Now he works to help Northeast explore potential future programs in radiological technology and diagnostic medical sonography.
Weeden says Northeast is well-equipped to educate students in the complex field of imaging science -- particularly in the areas of radiology and diagnostic medical sonography. "Northeast is set up well to offer medical imaging education. While the College is well known for its excellent doctorate programs preparing students to become leaders in chiropractic medicine, there also exists a master's program in medical imaging," Weeden said. "There is both infrastructure and knowledgeable faculty."
My motivation comes from a desire to serve my community. I am a first-generation college graduate and had many people support me over the years. I feel that my service is a way to pay it forward.
A Few Questions With Program Director Roger Weeden
You founded the radiological sciences program at Vermont Technical College (VTC). What are some of the accomplishments you're most proud of there?
I am proud of the students we were able to graduate. Being Vermont's only (radiological sciences) program, VTC is a "feeder" to medical facilities with imaging. The quality of the education must be high for the communities served. It has been an honor and I have been humbled when clinical sites call asking if they can be an affiliate for the program. I am proud to have been able to offer a great program for students who can graduate and have a career that serves their community members.
What type of careers are available to people who work in medical imaging and radiation therapy?
There are a number of routes a graduate can go with a radiologic science background. Regarding medical applications, graduates can consider diagnostic imaging as an entry into healthcare. There are opportunities to cross train in advanced imaging modalities; computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cardia catheterization, interventional radiography, and mammography. With more education graduates can consider sonography as well as radiation therapy and nuclear medicine.
Outside of medical imaging, graduates can be considered for industrial applications. Students learn the principles of radiation protection and can lead to radiation monitoring occupations. One example, nuclear regulatory agency approved power plants require monitors for operations. An alternate employment arena is industrial imaging - foundries testing for metallurgical voids. Possible career arenas span far and wide.
What appealed to you about working at Northeast?
I wanted to be a part of Northeast because of its long history in healthcare and its intimate understanding of what it means to offer healthcare profession's programs. During the interview process I met with many members of the Northeast community. I was greeted by an enthusiastic group, very welcoming and showing a professional demeanor. For me and what I am trying to do, I feel Northeast is committed to their students in all areas. The support provided to date has been more than expected and I feel confident the students are valued members of Northeast.
What does it mean to you to be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists?
To be ARRT certified is to say I meet industry standards to provide imaging services, have high ethical standards, and hold myself in high regard for patient care delivery, as well as being a member of the health delivery team.
