Johns Hopkins Radiology/Imaging leadership and staff gathered to celebrate the MRI Technologist Training Program Class of 2026 during graduation festivities earlier this month.

The ceremony, held at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, included remarks from Eileen Day and Nikki Seward, program co-directors; Cheryl Shoats, director of radiology clinical operations; Krista Stewart, MRI clinical and operations manager; Peg Cooper, radiology operations administrator; and Danielle Karavedas, chief administrative officer of radiology.

For more than 20 years, the Johns Hopkins Radiology MRI Tech Training Program has offered a six-month classroom and clinical training course providing radiologic technologists with the opportunity to pursue advanced modality training while receiving full-time pay and benefits.

This year’s MRI interns trained at eight locations across Johns Hopkins hospitals and outpatient imaging sites. Trainees received one-on-one support from technical educators and veteran technologists as they engaged in hands-on learning.

Program co-directors Nikki and Eileen opened the graduation ceremony by congratulating the graduates for their hard work during the intensive course.

Amid a backdrop of photos from the last six months, Nikki reflected on how far the graduates have come, from being nervous and uncertain to becoming confident MRI technologists. She encouraged them to take what they have learned and continue to build on that foundation.

Cheryl echoed this in her remarks, saying, “Look at where you are today. This is a big milestone, but it is just the beginning.”

“The field of MRI is always changing, so challenge yourself,” she said, adding, “If you think you can’t do it, try it anyway.”

Krista also encouraged the new MRI techs to rise to challenges in their careers.

“Use everything in your toolbox in your journey as an MRI tech,” she said. “Don’t stop trying things now.”

 

Peg expanded on this theme in her remarks, urging the graduates to not just be “button-pushers” but to keep developing as technologists.

She explained, “Take the opportunity, no matter what, to keep growing and building on the strong foundation you have here.” 

Finally, Danielle offered her congratulations to the new graduates. She urged them to always remember why they became technologists – the patients.

“We’re all here to offer compassionate and loving care to our patients,” she said, encouraging the new MRI techs to care for each patient like they would their loved ones. 

Following these remarks, certificates were presented to the graduates, including Azmara Tesfazion, Anniell Dickerson, Casey Schmitz, Devin Joyce and Rodrigo Nunez.

As the new graduates prepare to take their MRI board exams and begin their new careers, they feel well-prepared for the path ahead.

 

“The MRI Training Program built our confidence,” Azmara said, noting, “All of the staff were very supportive.”

Her fellow graduate, Devin, shared this sentiment, adding, “It was challenging, but worth it.”

The Johns Hopkins MRI Training Program is now accepting applications for its next session, set to begin in February 2027. The full-time, paid six-month program offers post-primary training leading to advanced certification in MRI. Applicants must have completed an AMA-approved program in Radiologic Technology, or its equivalent, before the start of the program.

The application deadline is Sept. 30, 2026, with interviews to be held in late October. Learn more information about this opportunity.