Villegas Receives Janell Lang Award as Owens Radiologic Technology Graduate
Jennifer Villegas had plenty of reasons to go back to school, but one was more important than the others—her own sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
Villegas graduated with her associate degree in Radiologic Technology in spring 2025. She was also named the Janell Lang Outstanding Service Award recipient.
“It’s exciting because you’re not just getting through the program, you’re being recognized for your hard work and effort,” Villegas said. “Going back to school after being 35 years old, it’s exciting, it’s exhilarating to win an award and to know that I did something that has made me feel fuller.”
The Janell Lang Award recognizes academic achievement, community and professional service, high professional standards and strengthens the ideals and images of health professions.
Villegas, of Toledo, was motivated to continue her education after watching her mom earn her registered nursing license and her sister complete a nurse practitioner’s license.
“It makes me feel more excited to know I have something under my belt that I can be proud of, for myself,” Villegas said. “Having this for myself means a lot, and getting the award makes it tenfold.”
Villegas said she didn’t do this alone. In addition to the support and camaraderie from classmates who became friends, she credited her husband, Miguel, who picked up a lot of the slack at home with their three children, all under the age of nine.
After being a stay-at-home mom for six years, the workload of being a student was a change for Villegas and her children. That gave her motivation to succeed, too.
“I couldn’t hit the pause button or stop because they’re watching,” Villegas said. “They wondered why I’m always in my books, so I explained to them how important learning is and how it affects your job and financial stability.”
Villegas started a full-time position in radiology at the University of Toledo Medical Center after graduation. She’s excited for what the future holds, and she knows her time at Owens has improved it.
“I would recommend it to anyone,” Villegas said. “Our instructors are all loving, they want to be here. They want to teach.”
Published May 2025