New River Community and Technical College proudly celebrated its Phlebotomy Technician students during a pinning ceremony held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the Erma Byrd Higher Education Center in Beaver. The event recognized the students’ achievements as they completed the Phlebotomy Technician program within the college’s Nursing and Health Professions offerings.
Surrounded by family, friends, faculty, and staff, the students are honored for their commitment to developing the technical and professional skills needed for a vital role in healthcare. The ceremony symbolizes the transition from classroom learning to clinical practice.
Phlebotomy Instructor Kristina Releford, MLT, served as the guest speaker, commending the students for their dedication and growth throughout the program. “These students have worked hard to master an essential skill set in healthcare,” said Releford. “Their success is a reflection of their determination and their heart for helping others.”
The phlebotomy program at New River CTC prepares students to collect blood specimens for laboratory testing – a critical function in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic laboratories.
New River CTC extends heartfelt congratulations to the following students: Charity Bennett, Allison Blankenship, Kourtney Cohenour, Makayla Delaney, Luke Fraley, Cassie Hill, Raven Kratz, Kaylee Lowe-James, Delaney Redden, and Kaylea Terry.
For more information about the Phlebotomy program at New River CTC, visit New River CTC’s Phlebotomy page today.
