The Mississippi and Louisiana Societies for Clinical Laboratory Science celebrated a successful joint annual meeting at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Hospitality Resort Management Center in Biloxi from March 25-27, 2024. The event brought together a diverse array of attendees including students, faculty, professionals, career recruiters, and vendors from across the nation.

The highlight of the event was the keynote address titled “Arthropods in Clinical Medicine,” delivered by Dr. Jerome Goddard, an esteemed entomologist from Mississippi State University. Attendees, including faculty, staff, and students from MGCCC were treated to insights into the intersection of entomology and clinical practice.

A major draw of the meeting was the student bowl competitions, pitting university medical lab science students and community college students against other colleges at their level. The intense competitions saw Mississippi Delta Community College emerge victorious in the community college level, claiming the first-place title, while MGCCC Team B won second place. MGCCC Team A also put up a strong showing, clinching third place in the competition.

The accolades continued during the awards luncheon on Wednesday, March 27, where standout individuals were recognized for their achievements. Courtney Reid, a sophomore student from MGCCC, was honored as the ASCLS-MS Student of the Year, showcasing exemplary dedication and performance in the field. Nathan Schuver, a freshman MLS student at MGCCC, distinguished himself by winning the prestigious Lois B. Jones and David R. Pace Memorial Scholarship, a highly competitive award bestowed upon outstanding students in medical laboratory technology and medical laboratory science.

Additionally, MGCCC Program Director, Dr. Rana Walley, was lauded with multiple awards, including the Presidential Service Award, Key to the Future, and ASCLS-MS Member of the Year, underscoring her exceptional contributions to the field of clinical laboratory science.

The annual meeting serves as a pivotal platform for professional development and camaraderie within the clinical laboratory science community. The lively student bowl competition not only fosters friendly competition but also encourages diligent preparation for certification exams, reinforcing the importance of ongoing education and skill refinement in the field.

Mississippi and Louisiana anticipate hosting this event annually, providing invaluable opportunities for networking, learning, and celebration within the clinical laboratory science community.