This story is part of our ongoing “HACC Heroes” series. We recognize the severity of the global coronavirus pandemic and its impact on our communities. During this challenging time, we want to thank and recognize HACC employees, students and others who are making a difference. The hero of this story is R. Curtis Aumiller, director of respiratory therapy.

HARRISBURG, Pa. – Two area health systems are using ventilators on loan from HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College, during the global coronavirus pandemic.

Geisinger Holy Spirit borrowed four ventilators and a non-invasive BiPAP breathing unit, and Penn State Health borrowed four ventilators after the College offered its equipment to meet an anticipated shortage in the region.

“Geisinger Holy Spirit and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center had donated some ventilators to the Respiratory Therapist Program a few years ago, so (we) reached out to these facilities and offered to lend them back,” said R. Curtis Aumiller, director of respiratory therapy at HACC.

Aumiller was assisted by Nicole Luksa, respiratory therapy director of clinical education, and Jay Lohman, superintendent of facilities management, and his team at the Harrisburg Campus to deliver the machines.

Many local hospitals support the education of HACC students, allowing them to complete clinicals at their locations and loaning equipment to the College’s programs. This was a time for HACC to give back to the community by loaning much-needed equipment quickly at a time when HACC faculty members are providing remote instruction to students.

About HACC
HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College, is the first and largest of Pennsylvania’s 14 community colleges. HACC offers approximately 100 career and transfer associate degree, certificate and diploma programs to approximately 19,000 students. Also, the College serves students at its Gettysburg, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Lebanon and York campuses; through virtual learning; and via workforce development and continuing education training. For more information on how HACC is uniquely YOURS, visit hacc.edu. Also, follow us on Twitter (@HACC_info), follow us on Instagram (@HACC_edu), like us on Facebook (Facebook.com/HACC64) and use #HACCNews.