NEW HAVEN, Conn. – For their exemplary demonstration of best practices in respiratory care and education, Southern Connecticut State University’s Department of Health and Movement Sciences has been recognized with the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) APEX Award for 2026–2027.
Southern’s Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) program is one of only five educational programs in the nation to earn this year’s APEX Designation — a recognition that honors programs and departments demonstrating the highest standards of quality, evidence-based practice, and educational excellence.
“This recognition is a reflection of the extraordinary work of our students, faculty, and leadership,” said Dr. Joan E. Kreiger, founding director of Southern’s respiratory therapy program. “Our mission has always been to create accessible, attainable, and high-impact educational experiences for working respiratory care professionals. The APEX Award validates that commitment and reinforces our role as a leader in respiratory therapy education.”
The AARC APEX Designation, established in 2017, acknowledges respiratory care programs and departments that consistently exemplify excellence in education and clinical practice. Institutions are selected based on a rigorous review process that evaluates program outcomes, curriculum alignment with national learning standards, and adherence to evidence-based care models.
Southern’s fully online BSRT program serves licensed, practicing respiratory care professionals from across the country, offering an innovative model for adult learning. Designed around the principles of affordability, accessibility, and attainability, the program equips students with the critical-thinking and leadership skills needed to advance patient care and healthcare delivery.
Founded in 2015, the program has grown under Kreiger’s leadership into one of the premier respiratory therapy degree advancement programs in the Northeast. Graduates of the program have gone on to earn advanced degrees and return to Southern as adjunct faculty, creating a full-circle model of mentorship and professional growth.
“This national recognition underscores our college’s commitment to evidence-based, student-centered education,” said Dr. Michele Vancour, interim dean for the College of Health and Human Services. “Southern’s BSRT program not only prepares respiratory care professionals for leadership and advanced practice, but it also exemplifies the power of accessible, online pathways to elevate workforce readiness and lifelong learning.”
The Department of Health and Movement Sciences’ recognition was formally celebrated at the AARC’s annual conference in Phoenix, Arizona, this December, where Kreiger also represented Connecticut as the state delegate for respiratory care professionals.
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