Respiratory Care Program Receives American Association for Respiratory Care Apex Award
Gwynedd Mercy University’s Respiratory Care program has been named a recipient of the 2027-2028 American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) Apex Designation for its demonstration of best practices in respiratory care and education, one of just 10 education program designees out of 449 across the United States. GMercyU has held this designation since 2023, earning the recognition for three consecutive award cycles.
“Earning the AARC Apex Designation reflects the strength of our program and dedication of our faculty,” said Randy Solly, MS, RRT, RPFT, AE-C, Respiratory Care Program Director at GMercyU. “Our students learn through rigorous coursework, hands-on simulation and clinical experiences that prepare them to step into the profession with confidence and provide excellent care from day one.”
GMercyU’s Respiratory Care program follows a 3+1 career-ladder model, allowing students to become eligible for employment after their third year while completing their bachelor’s degree and preparing for certification as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). Students train in the University's state-of-the-art Respiratory Care Laboratory, which includes a Laerdal SimMan Critical Care simulator capable of replicating a wide range of cardiopulmonary conditions, and complete clinical rotations across regional healthcare affiliations, from academic medical centers to pediatric and neonatal units.
“This recognition speaks to the dedication of our faculty and the quality of the education our Respiratory Care students receive,” said Jane H. Tang, PhD, RN, NE-BC, Dean of the Frances M. Maguire College of Nursing and Health Professions. “To earn this distinction is a meaningful validation of the program we have built and our commitment to preparing highly skilled health professionals for the communities they will serve.”
The AARC Apex Designation honors programs demonstrating excellence in professional development and in the education of respiratory therapists to deliver the highest quality of care and elevate the respiratory therapy profession. Since 2016, GMercyU Respiratory Care students have achieved a 100% final pass rate on the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam and a 96% clinical pass rate on the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exam.
“The AARC Apex Designation honors respiratory care departments and educational programs that exemplify excellence in evidence-based care and uphold the highest standards in patient care and education,” said AARC President, Dana Evans, MHA, RRT, RRT-NPS, FACHE, FAARC, FNAP. “These organizations are leaders in our field, setting the standard for high-quality respiratory therapy. Earning the Apex Designation reflects not only specialized clinical and educational expertise, but also a deep commitment to advancing care for patients of all ages in the communities they serve. The AARC is proud to recognize the 2027-2028 Apex designees for their exceptional contributions to our profession.”