Rhonda Knaack: From MCC Student to Program Chair

For Rhonda Knaack, MCC isn’t just where she teaches—it’s where her own professional journey began.

“I first walked through the doors of MCC right after graduating high school in 1983,” she said. “At the time, I had no clear direction. Like many students, I was still trying to figure out what path was right for me.”

That experience—of exploration, discovery, and support—is one she now brings full circle as Program Chair of MCC’s new Radiologic Technology and Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs.

Although Rhonda initially thought accounting might be the right fit, she quickly realized her strengths and passions lay elsewhere.

“I’ve always had a strong desire to help others,” she said. “Nursing didn’t feel like the right fit, but radiology fascinated me. I remember having several X-rays as a child, and those experiences stayed with me. It was the combination of technology and patient care that really captured my interest.”

That curiosity led her to apply to the Rockford Memorial Hospital School of Radiologic Technology, where she completed her training in 1987 and began a long, rewarding career in medical imaging.

Rhonda spent more than two decades at the old Woodstock Hospital on South Street, eventually serving as Radiology Supervisor. After changes in the healthcare landscape prompted a career transition, she returned to MCC to expand her education.

“Coming back to MCC in 2010 was a turning point for me,” she explained. “MCC gave me a strong academic foundation, and the courses and instructors here prepared me for every degree that followed.”

Her educational journey continued through advanced training in sonography, a bachelor’s degree in Computed Tomography (CT), and ultimately two master’s degrees—one in Radiologic Science and another in Healthcare Administration.

“Looking back, my journey has truly come full circle—from being a student unsure of her future to returning decades later with experience, confidence, and a passion for lifelong learning,” she said.

With 40 years of experience as a radiographer and CT technologist, and 13 years as a sonographer, Rhonda brings deep, real-world expertise to the classroom.

“I’ve always loved mentoring students in the clinical setting,” she said. “Teaching felt like a natural next step. Being able to formally educate students and help shape the next generation of imaging professionals is incredibly rewarding.”

Rhonda also finds special meaning in teaching close to home.

“It brings me immense satisfaction to know that I’m helping educate students who will one day serve our local healthcare community,” Rhonda said. “These are professionals who may someday take care of my own family and friends.”

Rhonda believes MCC’s Radiology and Sonography programs stand out because of their faculty and hands-on learning environment.

“Our faculty are deeply committed to student success,” she said. “Students can expect instructors who genuinely care, are passionate about their disciplines, and go above and beyond to make sure students are prepared to excel both academically and professionally.”

Students train using industry-standard Philips imaging equipment in MCC’s state-of-the-art Radiology and Sonography labs, gaining confidence before entering clinical rotations.

“I’m most excited for students to experience the clinical component of the program,” Rhonda said. “That’s where everything comes together—where students see how their skills directly impact patient care.”

Radiologic Technology and Diagnostic Medical Sonography are ideal fields for students who enjoy technology, anatomy, and helping others.

“This is an incredibly rewarding profession,” she said. "Radiographers and sonographers play a vital role in diagnosing and treating patients. If you’re passionate about patient care and fascinated by the human body and imaging technology, this career offers both purpose and fulfillment.”

Learn about radiology or sonography.