UW Rural Health Institute Hosts First Continuing Education Conference for Sonographers

The University of Wyoming’s Rural Health Institute, part of the College of Health Sciences, recently hosted its inaugural continuing education conference for sonographers, made possible through the generous support of the Helmsley Ultrasound Initiative.

The two-day event brought together experts and learners from across Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska and Washington to share cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on insights. Attendees explored a diverse range of ultrasound applications -- including musculoskeletal, breast, abdominal, vascular, cardiac and OB/GYN imaging -- as well as sessions on workplace ergonomics and ultrasound in trauma care.

“Introducing a chance for sonographers to obtain continuing education in the state of Wyoming was a large goal of ours through the Helmsley Ultrasound Initiative,” says Anna Hargens, coordinator with the UW Rural Health Institute. “Not only was this a great opportunity for obtaining continuing-education credits, but also an opportunity for interprofessional networking. Having the chance to meet so many Wyoming sonographers and higher professionals was an absolute pleasure.”

Speakers from numerous professional backgrounds provided a diverse learning opportunity for attendees.

“We are incredibly proud of the success of our first ultrasound conference,” says Lauren Gilbert, director of the Rural Health Institute. “It was inspiring to see such a diverse group of professionals and students come together to learn, share and connect. This event demonstrates how we can strengthen the use of ultrasound across Wyoming and beyond -- supporting the vision of ultrasound as the new stethoscope in modern health care.”

More than 30 participants earned a total of 208 continuing medical education credits over the weekend, including sonographers, students, residents, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. Students played a particularly active role, representing two community colleges, Red Rocks Community College in Colorado and Laramie County Community College in Wyoming, and presenting case study posters that highlighted their growing expertise. Awards and prizes were presented to the top three posters, recognizing excellence and innovation among emerging professionals.

Beyond the classroom, the conference offered opportunities to connect and have fun. Attendees competed in “Ultrasound BINGO” for a chance to win UW gear and networked with hospital vendors who showcased the latest tools and opportunities in the field.

This year’s conference not only expanded ultrasound knowledge across the region, but also celebrated the strong sense of community and collaboration that drives rural health forward. Building on this success, the Rural Health Institute plans to host an even larger and more dynamic conference next year -- continuing to grow Wyoming’s network of ultrasound professionals.

“The College of Health Sciences proudly recognizes the leadership of Lauren Gilbert and Anna Hargens for organizing the first annual continuing education conference for sonographers, hosted by the University of Wyoming’s Rural Health Institute,” says Patrick Hardigan, dean of the College of Health Sciences. “Supported by the Helmsley Ultrasound Initiative, this event united sonographers, students and health care professionals from across the region to advance skills, share knowledge and strengthen Wyoming’s ultrasound community. Their vision and dedication exemplify our commitment to innovation, collaboration and excellence in rural health education. We look forward to continuing this momentum and expanding educational opportunities that empower Wyoming’s health workforce and advance excellence in rural health care delivery.”