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CSM Receives $100K Gift to Launch Radiation Therapy Program
The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Foundation received a $100K gift from the Wills Group to support a new career pathway in radiation therapy.
The Radiation Therapy Program will train students to administer radiation treatments and operate industry standard laboratory equipment to provide high-quality healthcare while helping to meet a critical need in the healthcare workforce.
CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson said this investment will have a significant impact by opening new career pathways for students while advancing the college’s mission to address evolving regional workforce needs.
“At CSM we are committed to listening to our community partners and creating academic pathways that align with workforce demands,” Wilson said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with the Wills Group to support our students’ academic and economic success while strengthening care services for those in need across Southern Maryland.”
According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), a 2024 national staffing survey indicates the vacancy rate for radiation therapists is more than 13 percent, an increase of about three percent from 2022.
The program will train and prepare the next generation of radiation therapists and assistants to support hospitals and outpatient cancer care centers with patient care and administering treatments.
Jeremy Bradford, CEO of CalvertHealth, said having a radiation therapy program in the region will make a significant impact on a critical healthcare need.
“Radiation therapists play a critical role in cancer care, and like many healthcare professions, the demand for these highly skilled clinicians continues to grow,” Bradford said. “Launching a Radiation Therapy program in Southern Maryland is an important step toward addressing a regional workforce shortage while creating meaningful career pathways for students who want to serve their community.”
The gift will further support the establishment of the Anne and Blackie Wills Radiation Lab, a state-of-the-art facility located in the Health Sciences Building on the Regional Hughesville Campus.
Julian “Blackie” Wills III, President and CEO of the Wills Group, said this gift reflects a long-standing commitment to giving back to Southern Maryland.
“At the Wills Group, we’ve always believed that investing in people is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen our community,” said Wills. “CSM has a long history of creating access to education and career opportunities right here in Southern Maryland. We’re proud to support a program that not only prepares students for meaningful, in-demand careers, but also helps ensure our region has the skilled healthcare professionals needed to care for our neighbors.”
CSM is preparing to launch the radiation therapy program in FY27.
About the CSM Foundation
The mission of the CSM Foundation is to inspire generosity that expands access, opportunity, and success for all students. Over the past 10 years, the Foundation has raised $12 million in scholarships and program funds and has awarded $9.7 million in support of student success.
About The Wills Group
Wills Group, a family-owned company headquartered in La Plata, Maryland, is celebrating 100 years of moving lives forward. Today, Wills Group operates more than 280 retail locations across the Mid-Atlantic and Carolinas through its leading brands – Dash In, Splash In ECO Car Wash, and SMO Motor Fuels. With a growing network, Wills Group combines tradition with innovation and a commitment to redefine convenience, food, fuel, car wash and guest service. From chef-inspired, fresh food at Dash In convenience stores to environmentally responsible car care at Splash In, Wills Group’s focus is on creating exceptional guest experiences that make everyday life more rewarding. Consistently recognized as a Great Place to WorkTM, Wills Group’s people-first culture powers its growth and customer-centricity. For more information about Wills Group and its family of businesses, visit willsgroup.com.