When Radiography Program Director/Instructor Gene Frank found it was no longer possible to obtain critical parts to run the 1975 X-Ray machine used for instruction in the Riverland Community College Radiography program, he turned to his advisory committee members for an answer. Help was initiated through a generous contribution from Albert Lea Medical Center. ALMC was able to donate their 1995 X-Ray machine in September of 2003, because they were replacing this machine at ALMC.

Costs associated with moving and setting up the X-Ray machine exceeded $21,000. Funds from the college were coupled with a $5,000 private donation to the Riverland Foundation and a $2,000 program enhancement grant from Riverland Community College Foundation to move the equipment and calibrate it to meet Minnesota Department of Health Standards.

"The newer X-Ray machine will enable us to obtain parts which are regularly needed," said Gene Frank. "The updated features on this machine, such as digital fluoroscopy and automatic radiation control, will help our faculty teach students critical skills before they attend clinical training at our eleven affiliated hospitals and clinics in southern Minneosta."

The Riverland radiography program serves a critical need in the region. Of the thirteen Radiography graduates from August of 2003, ten are working in hospitals in southern Minnesota.

This generous gift from Albert Lea Medical Center illustrates the value of partnerships," said college president Dr. Terry Leas. "Riverland could not have purchased the piece of equipment valued at $150,000. Without the support of the medical center, our students would not have this advantage."