@2022 ASRT

Health care dramatically changed on Nov. 8, 1895, when German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered the x-ray. Hailed as a medical miracle, scientists and physicians started using x-rays in the clinical setting soon after, and its use skyrocketed in the early 20th century. Fast-forward to 2022 and health care providers still rely on the x-ray to detect bone fractures, find foreign objects in the body, identify lung disease and much more.

The x-ray was the catalyst for advanced medical imaging modalities like computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medicine and ultrasound. In addition, radiation therapists use x-rays and other forms of electromagnetic radiation in cancer treatments. Quite simply, the x-ray changed health care and continues to be a key player in patient care on a global scale.

An important part of the x-ray’s history includes the radiologic technologists who perform medical imaging and radiation therapy procedures. Since the early stages of the x-ray, radiologic technologists have worked to establish patient-safety protocols, patient-positioning techniques, equipment processes and radiation-safety guidelines. Their contributions to medical imaging and radiation therapy are a vital part of the x-ray’s story.

To commemorate the x-ray’s birthday, the American Society of Radiologic Technologists is celebrating National Radiologic Technology Week^®, Nov. 6-12. The week recognizes Wilhelm Roentgen’s discovery of the x-ray and honors the vital work of medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals in patient care and health care safety.

Sal Martino,
Ed.D., R.T.(R), FASRT, FASAE, CAE

The ASRT Board of Directors has approved a donation of $25,000 to the ASRT Foundation’s Sal Martino Leadership Scholarship in honor of ASRT CEO and Executive Director Sal Martino, Ed.D., R.T.(R), FASRT, FASAE, CAE, who will retire on Jan. 3, 2023, after 13 years leading the ASRT.

Initially funded with $25,000 from ASRT member Joy Renner, M.A., R.T.(R), her husband Jordan Renner, M.D., and Chief Operating Officer for the ASRT Foundation and Executive Vice President of Development & Corporate Relations Steve Hardy, M.S., R.T.(R)(T)(CT), CMD, the endowed scholarship recognizes Dr. Martino’s lifetime contributions to the ASRT, ASRT Foundation and radiologic technology profession.

“The ASRT Board is committed to supporting the ASRT Foundation and the incredible work it does through awarding scholarship and research grants to radiologic science students and practicing radiologic technologists,” said ASRT Chair of the Board Kristi Moore, Ph.D., R.T.(R)(CT). “Contributing to the Sal Martino Leadership Scholarship not only recognizes Dr. Martino’s legacy, it also provides funding for a program that will support future leaders in the profession.”

Furthermore, Joy Renner, the scholarship’s founder, said the Board’s commitment to the program goes a long way in showing others that contributions both big and small can make a difference. “I commend the ASRT Board for its support, and I can’t thank them enough for backing a program that I’m certain will change lives.”

Since the scholarship program was announced at the ASRT Annual Governance and House of Delegates Meeting in June, it has received more than $64,000 from individual contributors and organizations.

A gift in any amount will make a collective difference. Please donate as generously as possible and spread the word to your colleagues and organizations about this opportunity to support the future leaders of our profession in honor of Dr. Martino.