Alumni Spotlight: Megan Coates and Kevin Beaty

BRTC Alum Kevin Beaty, BRTC Director of Nursing Tonya Hankins and BRTC Alum Megan Coates

Black River Technical College (BRTC) alumni Megan Coates and Kevin Beaty work together at the St. Bernard’s Five Rivers Infusion Center in Pocahontas.

Coates earned a practical nursing degree in 2011 and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing in 2013, both from BRTC. She went on to the University of Central Arkansas, where she obtained a bachelor’s in Nuclear Medicine.

Beaty earned a practical nursing degree from BRTC in 2013.

The pair provide infusions on an outpatient basis. Infusions given are vaccinations, IV fluid therapy, blood products, and antibiotic infusions. Coates is the Infusion Center Coordinator.

They both agreed that their favorite part of their job is learning something new every day, giving back to the community, and working together.

Coates said she chose BRTC, because it was “ a greater opportunity for me. I did my research, and BRTC was and is the best nursing college around.” She also stated that it was a better decision for her financially, and the class schedule worked well with her work schedule. She liked the smaller classes, and her daughter plans to attend BRTC as well.

Beaty said he chose BRTC, because his wife was already attending the nursing program and she encouraged him to join. “I’m so glad I did. It was a phenomenal experience,” he said.

Coates advice to college students is “You have to make time to study.  Staying up all night isn’t the answer.  My nursing instructors really taught me a lot about the right ways to study.  Know that your instructors are there for you.  They want to see you succeed.  Take breaks that are not school related.  Utilize your teachers, school resources, and financial aid.”

Beaty’s advice to college students is “Pay close attention to your lectures.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions.  Your instructors want to see you succeed.  Don’t wait until the last minute for anything.  It’s ok to take a break.”

Coates said the biggest struggle for her was being a single mom going through the nursing program. “It was hard, but if I can do it, anyone can,” she  said.

Beaty said the hardest part for him was separating school and home life. “My wife and I were both going to nursing school at the same time. There has to be balance.”

Both agreed what they are especially proud of the newly opened Infusion Center, which has been needed in the Pocahontas community for some time.  “It brings an opportunity the community needs. It allows people to get the service they need without having to drive an hour away to receive care. All of our patients love it,” said Coates.

St. Bernard’s Five Rivers Infusion Center held a groundbreaking ceremony in May.