Radiologic Sciences Senior Awarded Scholarship

McKenlie Perry, a radiologic sciences major from Lake Charles, is the 2021 recipient of the Danial A. Herpin M.D., Memorial Scholarship. The award is presented annually to a senior radiologic sciences student.

“Dr. Herpin was a radiologist at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and took great pride in training the next generation,” says Susie Beasley, assistant professor of radiologic sciences and current chair of the scholarship committee. “McKenlie’s professional demeanor and compassion towards her patients are a true representation of Dr. Herpin.”

Perry’s interest in radiology first came about after an unfortunate accident.

“I was in a car accident in high school that required me to have several X-rays and other imaging done as well as physical therapy,” she explains. “Physical therapy appealed to me because of the in-depth knowledge on how the body functions, but it’s the imaging from radiologists that helps the therapist prepare a recovery plan for the patient.”

While the coronavirus pandemic and Hurricanes Laura and Delta led to several adjustments throughout the 2020 academic year, Perry says her faculty members became her support system both inside and outside of the classroom.

“All of the professors in radiologic sciences have gone above and beyond to encourage us through these uncertain times,” says Perry. “From one-on-one help with assignments to providing resources for stress and mental health, the faculty has demonstrated excellence with a personal touch by caring for us both as people and future professionals.”

Perry will graduate in May and plans to specialize in computed tomography, diagnostic imaging of internal organs and other body parts.

McNeese’s radiologic sciences program is one of only four baccalaureate programs offered in Louisiana, and since the program’s inception in 1978, McNeese students have held a 98.4% first-time passage rate on the national certification exam. For more information on the program, visit www.mcneese.edu/nursing/radiologic-and-medical-laboratory-sciences.