Valerie Koller, MAEd., BSRT, RRT-NPS
Valerie Koller, MAEd., BSRT, RRT-NPSProgram Director, Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) Degree Advancement Program
Valerie is passionate about shaping the future of respiratory therapy through education, leadership, and professional advancement. As Program Director for Pima Medical Institute’s Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) Degree Advancement Program, she is dedicated to preparing respiratory therapists to excel as clinicians, leaders, and advocates for their profession.
“Leadership begins with service, collaboration, and a deep commitment to advancing our profession,” Valerie said. “My journey from bedside care to academic leadership has reaffirmed that education is the foundation of progress—it strengthens clinical outcomes and empowers respiratory therapists to lead with purpose.”
Leading Academic Excellence
In her role at Pima Medical Institute, Valerie focuses on fostering academic excellence, accreditation readiness, and student development through mastery-based learning. She works closely with students to support their academic growth while preparing them for expanded professional opportunities in an evolving healthcare landscape.
Her commitment to advancing the field includes contributing to a published article in the AARC Respiratory Care Journal, where she and her colleagues explored leadership and innovation as drivers of professional growth.
Advancing the Profession
Valerie is especially passionate about the emergence of the Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT) profession, an important milestone that expands the scope of practice for experienced respiratory therapists.
“The APRT pathway represents a groundbreaking opportunity for our profession,” she said. “It allows respiratory therapists to elevate patient care while strengthening collaborative practice alongside physicians and advanced practitioners.”
Through mentorship and curriculum development, she prepares students to thrive in this expanding field.
Leadership Beyond the Classroom
In 2024, Valerie was selected for the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) Emerging Leaders Program, an experience that shaped her approach to mentorship and advocacy. She later presented, “Leveling Up: How the AARC Emerging Leaders Program Changed My Trajectory,” at the New Mexico Society for Respiratory Care (NMSRC) Conference.
She also serves as treasurer and board member of the NMSRC, where she promotes professional excellence and innovation throughout the state.
“My mission is to help shape a future where respiratory therapists are recognized as leaders who elevate patient care and inspire the next generation,” Valerie said.
About Pima Medical Institute
Pima Medical Institute is an employee-owned, private, accredited school dedicated to providing classroom studies paired with real-world training at medical facilities. Established in 1972, Pima Medical Institute helps students become career ready, focusing exclusively on healthcare professions, including medical, dental, and veterinary fields. The curriculum includes certificate, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs.
The medical career college has an extensive online curriculum and a presence in eight western states with the following ground locations: Albuquerque, N.M.; Tucson, Phoenix, and two campuses in Mesa, Ariz.; Aurora, Denver, and Colorado Springs, Colo.; Seattle and Renton, Wash.; Las Vegas, N.V.; Houston, El Paso, and San Antonio, Texas; Chula Vista and San Marcos, Calif. For more information and a complete list of programs offered at each campus, visit pmi.edu or call 1-888-442-5998.
