After graduating from Delta in 2019, David Ross found himself making weekly visits back to campus this winter and spring. Only this time, he returned as an experienced nurse. 

Ross is one of dozens of individuals who are volunteering at a COVID-19 vaccination distribution site operated by the Bay County Health Department with assistance from Delta faculty, staff, alumni and students. To date, more than 15,000 vaccines have been administered. 

For Ross, the experience has been gratifying.

“It’s incredible to see the joy on peoples’ faces when they get the vaccine and know you’re making a difference in someone’s life,”
he said. 

Planning for the vaccination site, located in the southeast parking lot on the main campus, began in November. Dr. Karl Rishe, vice president of Student and Educational Services, said it was important to choose a location that could accommodate a two-lane, drive-through system. 

“Serving and supporting the community is a vital part of our mission,” Rishe said. “As a college, we’re used to running large-scale logistics for different events, and we’re glad to offer our services in this way. Our team of Pioneers have moved mountains to serve their community.”

Giving time and talent

Daisy McQuiston, associate professor of nursing, coordinates on-site logistics and volunteers, many of whom are students in Delta’s nursing and respiratory care programs. The students, under guidance from a faculty member, administer the vaccine themselves. Others educate people about the vaccine and review medical records.

“These students are gaining valuable experience and potentially saving lives in the process,” McQuiston said. “They are practicing their communication skills and learning how to manage time efficiently, and many of them are fulfilling required clinical experience in the process.”

Joel Strasz, director of the Bay County Health Department, said Delta has been an indispensable partner. 

“With Delta’s assistance, outbreaks have been prevented, and faculty, staff and students are engaged in a safe and effective manner,” Strasz said. “The drive-through clinic has been recognized at the state level, and will widely be remembered for its effectiveness as the history of this pandemic is
documented locally.”