LCC Announces 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients

Thomas McCall, a graduate of Labette Community College, credits LCC as the foundation of his career in healthcare. While attending LCC, he completed both the Radiologic Technology and Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs, gaining the technical skills and hands-on experience that would shape his future in medical imaging.

“The education I received at LCC gave me the confidence and skill set to step into healthcare and make an immediate impact,” McCall said. “The instructors were invested in my success and created an environment where I could grow both personally and professionally.”

Following his time at LCC, McCall earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Radiologic Technology from Missouri Southern State University and later a Master of Business Administration degree from Pittsburg State University. He has also obtained advanced specialty credentials, including Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS) and Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS), further expanding his expertise in diagnostic imaging.

McCall has dedicated more than 15 years to healthcare, including over six years in leadership roles. He currently serves as Director of Radiology and Cardiac Rehabilitation at Lakewood Health System in Staples, Minnesota, where he oversees a comprehensive range of imaging services and leads strategic initiatives focused on expanding access to care, advancing technology, and improving patient outcomes in a rural healthcare setting.

As a leader, McCall remains closely connected to the impact of education and workforce development. Three members of his team attended Labette Community College’s ultrasound program, and today, two are part of his department. In a field where skilled professionals are in high demand, he has made a deliberate investment in developing talent internally.

“We chose to grow our own because we knew the quality of education LCC provides,” McCall said. “I had full confidence they would be prepared to succeed, just as I was.”

Beyond his professional work, McCall is committed to mentoring staff and fostering a culture centered on compassion, innovation, and excellence. He takes pride in helping others grow in their careers, just as he was supported during his time at LCC.

McCall remains grateful for his education at Labette Community College and is honored to represent LCC as a Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.

Martin Mendicki, a Labette Community College alumnus, has built a distinguished career rooted in service, compassion, and a deep commitment to his community. After beginning his educational journey at LCC, he continued his studies at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Funeral Service. He also achieved the designation of Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP) from the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice (APSFP).   

Mendicki has dedicated his professional life to serving families in their most difficult moments. He is a licensed funeral director and embalmer with Carson-Wall Funeral Homes, serving the communities of Parsons, Erie, St. Paul, and Girard, where he has worked since 1997. His commitment to the profession began early, as he started working at the funeral home, then Burris-Carson-Wall, during his first year at Parsons High School. While attending PHS and later Labette Community College, he assisted with a variety of tasks, from washing cars to maintaining the grounds, gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of the profession. During his time at the University of Central Oklahoma, he continued building his skills while working at Baggerly-Marler Funeral Homes in Edmond and Oklahoma City. After graduating, he moved to Independence, Kansas, where he completed his apprenticeship, further preparing him for a lifetime of meaningful service.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mendicki is widely recognized for his exceptional leadership and civic involvement. He has been an active member of First Baptist Church, serving on various committees and the board. He has devoted more than 25 years to the Parsons Lions Club, and is a Past President and past Zone Chairman. His commitment to service extends across numerous organizations, including the Parsons Community Development Corporation and the Parsons Educational Foundation, where he currently serves as President of both boards. He is also a part of the Historic Oakwood Cemetery Improvement Board, the LCC Strategic Planning Committee, and the Public Safety Advisory Board for the Parsons Police and Fire Departments. In past years, he also served on the Labette County chapter of the American Red Cross.

Mendicki’s leadership extends to the state and national levels through is involvement with the Kansas Funeral Directors Association (KFDA), where he has served as a board member and officer since 2016.  He served as KFDA President in 2024 – 2025 and now continues his service as Immediate Past President.  In October 2025, he was appointed to the National Funeral Directors Association’s Leadership Development Committee, where he helps interview and evaluate candidates running for positions on the organization’s board of directors. 

A service-minded professional, Mendicki consistently gives his time and talents to improve the community in which he was raised. His nominator described him as “an outstanding example of an LCC alumnus who serves his community,” a testament to both his character and his impact.

Mendicki credits Labette Community College with helping lay the foundation for his success and values the role it played in launching his career. He remains proud of his roots and continues to invest in the community that has given him so much.