As a career counselor and an advocate for students, Keiser University Daytona Beach Campus Student Services Director Lynne Carr has always enjoyed assisting students as they prepare for rewarding careers, so when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, care from her campus community and Keiser graduates was heartening.

“Almost every step along the way I had tears of happiness because five of the medical professionals that are a part of my journey are our graduates,” said Carr who was soon reconnected with alumni after her May 2024 diagnosis as she met her breast cancer navigator and underwent her ultrasound, biopsy, follow up imaging, MRI, and more. “I know how well trained they are and felt much less stress because I knew they knew what they were doing. They were all so kind and encouraging,” she said.

Inspired to enter the field of education because of her desire to interact and motivate others, Carr says she’s never looked back after joining Keiser University in 2002.

“I get to make a difference every day. From helping a student or graduate find a job to planning their graduation ceremony and helping them celebrate their achievements,” she said.

Like many, Carr’s breast cancer journey began quite unexpectedly.

“I had my annual screening, and it came back with no findings. Later that same night I found a small lump under my right armpit at the outer edge of my breast and called my physician’s assistant the next day,” remembered Carr, who soon underwent an ultrasound-guided biopsy. “Then the words you never want or think you will hear ‘You have cancer,’ she recalled. With her plan for healing moving swiftly, Carr’s genetics blood test, Cancer 101 class, MRI, and breast cancer navigation meeting soon followed, before connecting with a surgeon and a plastic surgeon to discuss possible reconstruction options. She then underwent a bilateral mastectomy with reconstructive surgery.

Carr was quick to share how supportive her campus family has been and continues to be during her battle with breast cancer. Throughout the experience friends, family members, and Keiser University alumni and colleagues continued to share support.

“Over the past few months, I have witnessed Lynne’s courageous battle against cancer. Her resilience and bravery in the face of this illness have been an inspiration to our entire campus community. We have come together, offering our prayers and positive thoughts, in hopes of a successful surgery and a swift recovery for Lynne. I vividly recall the moment she received the call from her surgeon and shared the concerning news with me. However with a bright smile, she said, ‘I was so proud to have several of our graduates work on me so I know I am in good hands,’” recalled Keiser University Daytona Campus President Ben Sedrine who joined others in visiting Carr and her AdventHealth team as part of the compassionate message she’d like to share with the Keiser community and those who are battling breast cancer.

“My visit to the AdventHealth Imaging Center was a compelling testament to the positive outcomes of our partnership with AdventHealth. While there, I had the opportunity to meet several Keiser graduates from our Radiologic Technology and Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs who are currently employed at the center. These Keiser alumni are not only busy with meaningful work but also expressed a high level of satisfaction with the careers they have established in the healthcare sector. It is worth highlighting that while pursuing their education, these graduates completed at least one clinical rotation at AdventHealth, providing them exposure to a world-class healthcare facility. These individuals are Floridians and have chosen to establish their professional lives here in Volusia County. As a local university, we take pride in facilitating the seamless integration of our skilled graduates into the talent pool that AdventHealth requires right here in our community, making a significant local impact,” said Keiser University Daytona Beach Campus President Ben Sedrine.

While encouraging others to regularly check for abnormal lumps through self-examinations and regular gynecological screenings, Carr shared that care from some of those she helped place in the healthcare field continues to provide solace. “We not only give our students the technical skills but also the soft skills.  It is amazing to see how far some of these professionals have advanced in their career journeys,” she said.

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Radiologic Technology prepares students for entry-level positions in the profession, producing radiographic images in accordance with standardized practices and procedures.  The program provides radiologic information including medical terminology, patient care, radiographic procedures, radiation protection, equipment operations, and image production and evaluation. The program’s graduates are eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and are eligible to be licensed by the State of Florida to practice Radiologic Technology.

Keiser’s Associate of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography provides opportunities for students to become skilled professionals who work under the direction of licensed physicians to perform ultrasound examinations, visualize the human body, and assist physicians in forming diagnoses.

Keiser University is a private, independent, non-profit university serving nearly 20,000 students at 21 Florida campuses, online, and two international sites. Founded in 1977 by Chancellor Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., and Evelyn Keiser, Keiser University currently offers more than 100 degrees from associate to doctoral level. Keiser University is a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, and was ranked No. 21 in the U.S. in Social Mobility by U.S. News and World Report in 2023-24.