News

VC graduates eight with Paramedic Certificate

2025 Paramedic Awards Group Photo Top honors were awarded during a special ceremony on May 16

Eight students graduated from Victoria College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program with a Paramedic Certificate. Top honors were awarded during a special awards ceremony on May 16. Dr. John McNeill delivered the graduate address, and Victoria College President Dr. Jennifer Kent delivered the closing remarks.

Kaleigh McCauley was named class valedictorian, and Brent Dunavant was named class salutatorian.

Mario Juarez received the Best in Lab Award, and Brent Dunavant received the Best in Clinic Award. The 2025 J. Alan Baker Award, which is voted on by the students, was presented to Kaleigh McCauley. 

Following is a list of VC’s Spring 2025 Paramedic Certificate graduates listed by city of residence, along with EMS employment:

Edna

  • Kiana Padron, employed with Jackson County Hospital District EMS

Ganado

  • Brenna Anderle, employed with Jackson County Hospital District EMS

Goliad

  • Darren Blackmon, employed with Victoria Fire/EMS

Port Lavaca

  • Erwin Silva-Palomo, employed with Calhoun County EMS

Port O’Connor

  • Kaleigh McCauley, employed with Jackson County Hospital District EMS

Victoria

  • Brent Dunavant, employed with Victoria Fire/EMS
  • Jessica Garcia, employed with Refugio EMS

Yoakum

  • Mario Juarez, employed with Yoakum Fire/EMS
VC’s EMS Program provides high-quality education to meet the growing demand for EMTs and paramedics in the Golden Crescent region. Visit VictoriaCollege.edu/PublicService to learn more.