Celebrating Pioneers and Alumni in the Allied Health Professions

Keaysia Bryant

Keaysia graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. She maintains advanced specialization in mammography and breast ultrasound. She currently practices at Ascension Providence.

When asked about what she loves about USA, she shared, “Something I liked about USA is the campus involvement. No matter what interest you have, USA had a group club, or event for it! This is something I fell in love with when first touring the campus. There are countless ways for everyone to feel included and get involved. Go Jags!”

In regards to time management as a radiologic sciences student, Keaysia said, “Time management is key. If you are someone who is very involved on campus, it can be difficult to balance school with extracurricular activities, work and life. During my last and hardest year of school, one of my more demanding responsibilities was being the Vice President of the Iota Nu City-Wide Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Let your planner be your best friend. Actually, I still use my planner in my adult life!”

Jessica Leggett Dexter

Jessica received her Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences from the University of South Alabama in 2007. Jessica has expertise in almost all areas of radiology that are taught here at the University. Jessica is currently the mammography supervisor at a USA Health Imaging Center.

Jessica is a team player and also functions as a CT technologist and a radiographer when her team needs her help. While employed at University Hospital, Jessica was recognized as a Health Hero for her work as an interventional radiologic technologist.

Debra Dwight, Ed.D., C.C.C. – SLP

Dr. Debra Dwight graduated from the University of South Alabama with a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Therapy in 1973. She went on to earn her Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education, also at South, in 1975 and a Master of Arts in Communicative Disorders from the University of Alabama in 1976. She earned a Doctorate of Education in 1985, also from the University of Alabama.

She has taken on a variety of roles in various settings including academic and clinical teaching since earning these degrees and is considered a leader in the field of speech-language pathology. Recently, she published the 3rd edition of her book, Here’s How to Do Therapy: Hands-on Core Skills in Speech-Language Pathology. Dr. Dwight was the 2021 Covey College of Allied Health Professions Hall of Fame inductee.

When asked what inspiration she would share with students, “Education truly absorbed and captured as your own is never wasted. It gets rolled into one big ball that grows over time, and you never know where that ball will bounce, nor how high. Wherever it bounces, however, and to whatever heights, it takes you with it - if you are a willing traveler.”

Damonique Evans

Damonique Evans is a 2021 paramedic graduate from the Department of Emergency Medical Services. Ms. Evans excelled in both academic and clinical settings, and after graduation she made history by becoming the first African American female firefighter/paramedic to serve the City of Mobile’s Fire and Rescue Department.

When asked what it means to her to make departmental history, Ms. Evans stated, “It is a great honor and privilege to serve my city, and I just hope that I am an inspiration to other females that wish to pursue a career in the fire service.” Ms. Evans is a shining example of what it means to be a USA graduate!

Karen Finklea, PA-C

Karen Finklea graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2018 with a Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant Studies. She is a native of Monroeville, Alabama, and presently resides in Rochester, New York, where she works with underserved populations in obstetrics and gynecology.

Karen is pursing her Doctorate of Medical Sciences at the University of Lynchburg with hopes of pursuing a career in PA education.

Karen has found a passion for mentoring the next generation of PA students. She currently mentors pre-professional students through the African Heritage PA Caucus and the National Society of Black PAs. She has worked with the University of South Alabama’s PA program to assist with diversity efforts.

Karen enjoys spending time with her husband, Matthew, and their sweet puppy, Teddy, in her spare time.

Ryan Ford

Ryan graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. She also completed a Minor in Psychology and was a graduate of the Honors College. She is currently an M1 in her first year at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine. Ryan will be the first physician in her family.

Ryan expresses her appreciation for South, “in all of the support I found in truly unexpected places. It took me a long time to learn that asking for help is a strength, and when I finally decided to reach out, I found more than a couple of outstretched hands ready to give me a boost.”

Erryce Hamilton

Erryce graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. Her degree includes concentrations in radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and radiology administration.

Erryce is an employee of USA Health as a Radiologic Technologist III. During her time as a student at USA, she was inducted into the Alpha Eta Honors Society. Erryce was the first ever RadSci Alumni of the Month when the recognition began in August of 2019. In 2019, Erryce was also recognized as a Health Hero.

Erryce loves the Jags and supports the Jags every chance she gets. She is a proud Lifetime Member of the USA Alumni Association.

Yvette Hillery

Yvette graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. Yvette currently works locally as a radiographic and computed tomography technologist.

Dr. Victoria Howard, PA-C

Dr. Victoria Howard graduated from the University of South Alabama with a Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2009. She went on to complete a Doctorate of Medical Sciences in 2019 from the University of Lynchburg. Dr. Howard currently practices in family medicine in rural Alabama and works with PA students in their clinical year.

When asked about her experience in South’s PA program, she shared, ““Attending the USA PA Program was a vision fulfilled. The faculty and staff were very helpful and instrumental in my completing the program. I especially enjoyed my clinical rotations – ALL of my rotations - which made it very hard to decide which area of medicine I would pursue a career in; however, I ultimately decided on family medicine and I have been pleased with my decision.”

Christina Johnson

Christina graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. Christina’s career is in the field of interventional radiology.

While at USA, Christina was inducted into the Alpha Eta Honors Society. Christina graduated Cum Laude from the University of South Alabama.

Kenneth Jones

Kenneth graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. Kenneth works in our community as a radiographer and a magnetic resonance technologist.

LeZyon LaGarde

LeZyon graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. His degree includes concentrations in radiography and computed tomography.

LeZyon continued his educational journey at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is currently employed as a physician assistant in a CVICU in Birmingham.

Jonalyn Moore-Venton, Au.D. CCC-A

Dr. Jonalyn Moore-Venton graduated from the University of South Alabama with a Doctorate of Audiology in 2015. She is currently a telehealth audiologist with the VA Montana Health Care System.

When asked about her greatest professional achievement, “...my work to help implement VA Video Connect (VVC) procedures into our Audiology clinic. This work helped to continue with hearing aid dispenses and follow ups due to limited face to face appointment availability as a result of the COVID pandemic. I really enjoyed learning about the remote world of audiology and teaching patients, up to 96 years old, and their family members how to use technology in order to continue their appointments at home.”

When asked what inspiration she would share with students, “My advice for students would be to follow your interests and to pursue them even if you are scared. Through the right education, mentorship, and experience, you will be surprised where your passions will take you. Be more afraid of not attempting to embark on the life you want.”

Mariah Philpot

Mariah graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. Her career is in computed tomography. Mariah was the vice president of her radiology class.

Charles Tolbert

Charles Tolbert graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences. His degree includes concentrations in radiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Charles is employed by USA Health.