American Association for Respiratory Care Awards Apex Designation to DSC’s Bachelor of Science in Cardiopulmonary Science program

DAYTONA BEACH, FLA. (October 27, 2025) – Daytona State College’s Bachelor of Science in Cardiopulmonary Science program has earned the 2026–2027 American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) Apex Designation, an honor that distinguishes programs nationwide for excellence in respiratory care and education.

“We developed this program to meet the growing need for respiratory therapists with advanced knowledge in expanded scope of practice, leadership and educational roles,” said Melanie McDonough, Assistant Chair of the School of Health Careers. “Earning the AARC Apex Designation affirms the hard work and passion our faculty bring to every class experience. It reflects our commitment to preparing graduates who are confident, capable and ready to make an immediate impact from day one.”

Daytona State launched the B.S. in Cardiopulmonary Science program in Fall 2023 and the first cohort of students graduated from the program in December 2024. The program can be taken fully online, with options for in-person class activities on the Daytona Beach Campus.

“The Apex Designation honors respiratory care educational programs that exemplify excellence in evidence-based care and uphold the highest standards of patient care and education,” said AARC President Dana Evans. “These organizations are leaders in our field – setting the standard for high-quality respiratory therapy. Earning the Apex Designation reflects not only specialized clinical and education expertise, but also a deep commitment to advancing care for patients of all ages in the communities they serve.”

Daytona State is the first state college nationwide to receive the prestigious Apex Designation, which was established in 2017. This distinction resulted from comprehensive documentation of key elements essential to delivering top-tier education. Institutions that earn Apex recognition are distinguished as leaders in respiratory care education and play a vital role in advancing the respiratory therapy profession.

Faculty of the Cardiopulmonary Science program who ensured the program met the qualification standards of the Apex Designation award are (from left to right):

Melanie McDonough, MS, RRT, RRT-ACCS - Program Director

Stephanie Parlamento, MBA, RRT, RRT-RPFT, RRT-CPFT - Faculty

Misty Carlson, MS, RRT, RRT-ACCS, RRT-NPS – Faculty

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Offering more than 100 certificates, associate and bachelor’s degree programs, Daytona State College is the leader in education and workforce training needs of Volusia and Flagler counties and beyond. The College enrolls approximately 23,000 students a year at its seven campuses, with graduates serving in critical fields including healthcare, emergency services and public safety, business, aeronautics, education, hospitality, engineering, project management, accounting, computer science, digital media and more.

Daytona State has been recognized as a leader in higher education numerous times. U.S. News & World Report ranks the College among the Top Tier Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. The U.S. Department of Education’s College Affordability and Transparency Center ranks DSC among the top 50 most affordable public four-year institutions in the country, with less than half the tuition of the national average. And U.S. News & World Report has ranked DSC among its Top Online Bachelor's Programs for Veterans multiple times.