Alumni Spotlight: Patrick Chavis

Patrick Chavis is the kind of guy who says “hey” to everyone. In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, Patrick is working at St. Barnabas Hospital in New York and is spreading southern hospitality throughout New York. Patrick is a 1997 Robeson Community College Respiratory Therapy graduate who went on to receive his Bachelors of Science in Respiratory Therapy from UNC Charlotte.

Patrick began taking night classes at RCC in the early 1990’s while working full-time at Converse. He was initially interested in nursing until his Dad, RCC retired math instructor Crafton Chavis, told him about RCC’s respiratory therapy program. His experience at RCC was very rewarding and provided a solid foundation to help launch his career. He was able to utilize the library and respiratory labs in the evening hours and received support from the RCC Foundation.

Patrick was contacted by contractors who saw his resume on LinkedIn about working in New York at St. Barnabas Hospital just outside Manhattan.  He arrived in New York on April 20, 2020 with plans to remain until August 2, 2020. When asked about his experience in NY during the current health pandemic, Patrick described it as “life changing.”  Upon his arrival at St. Barnabas, there were no available beds at the 600-bed hospital and all departments were being used for COVID-19 patients. Patrick shared, “It literally looked like a war zone.”

Patrick said he chose to volunteer and go to New York because he wants to use his talent and skills to help those who are most affected by the virus. He feels that he needs to stand with his fellow respiratory therapists and help during the pandemic.

He is thankful for Robeson County and says there is no place like home and is thankful for the many prayers and kind words from family and friends.

Thank you, Patrick, for being a HERO!