Two ways to purchase your copy of the Ten-Year Anniversary book:
From its origin in 1997, KCTCS has maintained the vision of being recognized as the nation’s best comprehensive community and technical college system.
For KCTCS, the transformation or metamorphosis of the last decade symbolizes not only the remarkable creation and growth of the system, but the lives that have been changed as a result of the system’s success.
KCTCS successfully consolidated 14 community colleges and 15 technical schools into 16 comprehensive community and technical colleges operating on 67 campuses within a 30-minute drive of 95% of the citizens in the Commonwealth.
KCTCS has become the largest provider of postsecondary education and workforce training in the Commonwealth, with 4,850 businesses served in 2007 via workforce initiatives.Introduction and Dedication
The butterfly often symbolizes rebirth and renewal, and nature’s plan for its evolution is incredibly complex. Intrigued by nature’s amazing process of nurturing the tiny egg into a caterpillar and then winged butterfly, and recognizing that the growth and development of the decade-old Kentucky Community and Technical College System progressed through a similar transformation, we chose
Metamorphosis as the title for this tenth anniversary publication.
Metamorphosis is defined as change of character, appearance, or transformation of condition. The Kentucky Community and Technical College System has emerged after ten years as a vibrant educational life form. On behalf of the entire Kentucky Community and Technical College System...to the many heroes and heroines of this educational regeneration, ...and to those who have been given new wings, this anniversary commemoration is dedicated.
Margaret Adams Lane
Metamorphosis Editor
KCTCS Anniversary Historian
Credits
Michael B. McCall, Ed.D., President - Project Inspiration and Authorization
Editor: Margaret A. Lane, Anniversary Historian
Associate Editor: Timothy R. Burcham, CFRE
Assistant Editor: Jackie Bondurant
Production Coordinators: KCTCS Marketing and Public Relations Department
Image Coordinator: Angela Trevino
Research and Policy Analyst: Dr. Christina Whitfield
Design and Layout: Creative Alliance, Louisville, Kentucky
Printing: Welch Printing, Louisville, Kentucky
Publication Consultant: Benjamin Press, Perryville, Kentucky
Special Appreciation to:
What is KCTCS?KENTUCKY COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM
The decade-old KCTCS network of 16, two-year comprehensive colleges, provides education and training on 67 campuses throughout the state. Among Kentucky’s state-supported universities and colleges, the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) became the ninth, unique institution in 1997 and today, serving nearly 93,000 students, is bigger than many universities in the country.
The decade-old KCTCS network joined 14 established community colleges and 15 postsecondary technical institutions first into districts and later into 16, two-year comprehensive colleges. Operating on 67 campuses throughout the state, from Covington to Cumberland, Pikeville to Paducah, the 16 colleges and more than 10,000 administrators, faculty and staff, are provided with leadership, service, and support by the KCTCS System Office.
KCTCS Vision
To create a comprehensive community and technical college system recognized as the nation's best.
KCTCS Mission
To improve the quality of life and employability of the citizens of the Commonwealth by serving as the primary provider of:
The System Office - Leadership, Service, Support
The Metamorphosis BeginsAs thousands gathered in the Capital City on Inauguration Day, 1995, Kentucky’s newly elected governor, Paul E. Patton (Ky Governor 1995-2003,) prepared to take the ceremonial oath of office and solemnly swear he had never fought a duel with deadly weapons. Wearing a topcoat to ward off the December chill, the new governor stepped to the podium and delivered his self-penned inaugural address, envisioning a Commonwealth entering a new era of educational history.
“We must have a system of higher education which is more responsive, more efficient, and more relevant to today’s realities and tomorrow’s needs. Our people deserve no less, and I will accept no less.”
The story of Kentucky’s 1997 postsecondary education metamorphosis began with a long recognized need.
Platform for Kentucky
State of Affairs in Kentucky - 1997
The Stars Aligned“For every bold and successful project, champions emerge who have the power, determination, and vision to lead the charge.”
Kentucky Higher Education Reform had been advocated for 30 yearsProcess
Protest
University of Kentucky organized public protest regarding removing the community colleges from UK.
Progress
May 30, 1997 - Kentucky General Assembly approved and Governor Patton signed House Bill 1, The Kentucky Postsecondary Education Improvement Act of 1997.
The Leadership Team“The creation of KCTCS is the birth of a new institution in this state.” - Governor Paul Patton
Bold Leadership - KCTCS Board of Regents 1997
Founding Board of Regents members: John R. Banks of Hopkinsville, Richard Bean of Louisville, Michael Hoseus from Lexington, Martha Johnson of Ashland, Lorna Littrell from Henderson, Diana Lutz from Madisonville, Cynthia Read and Marvin Russow from Louisville.
Ms. Cynthia E. Fiorella of Owensboro Community College and Mr. Mark A. Powell of Bowling Green Regional Technology Center representing staff, Dr. John F. Hanel of Jefferson Community College and Mr. Bobby W. McCool of Mayo Regional Technology Center serving as faculty regents, and Mr. Charles O’Neal of Madisonville Community College and Ms. Donna Davis of Somerset Regional Technology Center representing KCTCS students.
Board of Regents Chairs, 1998-2008 Ms. Martha C. Johnson, Ms. Cynthia L. Read, Mr. Richard A. Bean |
Statewide Transition Team: State Budget Director, Dr. James Ramsey; Deputy Budget Director, Ron Carson; Finance Cabinet executive assistant, Beth Hilliard; Dr. Ed Ford, Deputy Secretary of the Governor’s Cabinet; Dr. Ben Carr, Chancellor, University of Kentucky Community College System (UKCCS); Dr. Jack Jordan, Vice Chancellor for Business Affairs, UKCCS; Dr. Anthony Newberry, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, UKCCS; Delmus Murrell, Acting Commissioner, Department of Technical Education, State Workforce Development Cabinet; Beverly Haverstock, General Counsel, Workforce Development Cabinet; and Sandy Gubser, Executive Director, Office of Policy, Budget, and Personnel, Workforce Development Cabinet.
Early Days, First Steps
Red Letter Days
The Founding President
In 1998, The KCTCS Board of Regents Search Committee sought a dynamic visionary with a passion for community colleges, a superb planner, a forceful communicator, and an innovative marketer. The president of Kentucky’s new team would need to empower staff, faculty, and students to take quantum leaps in education. To accomplish that objective, the Board of Regents designed an open review process for its presidential search.
Meeting at Maysville Community College on December 3, 1998, the KCTCS Board of Regents appointed Dr. Michael Baxter McCall as founding president by a unanimous vote. Dr. McCall had been a champion of community college education for 29 years and readily accepted the challenges of directing Kentucky’s promising new educational institution.
Dr. McCall maintains an impressive resume. He began his educational career as a professor of physics and rose quickly to assistant dean of instruction at New River Community College in Virginia. From there, he moved from Tidewater Community College as division chairman to Paul D. Camp Community College as dean and president from 1984 to 1988. After being inaugurated as president of Florence Darlington Technical College in South Carolina, Michael McCall was first appointed deputy director, and in 1994, executive director of the South Carolina State Board for Technical and Comprehensive Education, a position that required him to coordinate operations of sixteen colleges and to advocate with the South Carolina General Assembly.
The theme of unity and inclusiveness continued in Dr. McCall’s address on September 18, 1999, when he was inaugurated as Founding President of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System.
"My vision for KCTCS is that through Unity of Place we will respond to community and employer needs. Through Unity of Purpose we will leverage our resources and efforts. Through Unity of People we will educate, empower and employ. As I build on the experiences of those who have brought us here today, I am reminded that our future success must unify tradition and innovation."
“Our vision has always been for KCTCS to be the nation’s best community and technical college system. We want to continue to improve the quality of life and the employability of the citizens of the Commonwealth.” Michael B. McCall
The Wisdom of Unification
Immediately upon arriving in Kentucky, Dr. McCall focused on the development of leadership at the board, executive, and staff levels in the System Office and at the colleges. President McCall’s framework for success was introduced in 2000 as the RSVP Model (Responsive Solutions through Vigorous Planning) – and continues today as a network of teams establishing two-way lines of communication throughout the System.
One of the hallmarks of Dr. McCall’s leadership is his commitment to an inclusive strategic planning process with clear goals, measurable core indicators, and systematic progress reporting. Guided by these strategic plans, Dr. McCall developed annual initiatives. Each titled with a creative acronym, the plans have been the driving force for significant achievements over the past decade.
Unified Academic Structure
 Photo Above: Dr. Keith Bird, KCTCS Chancellor |
The KCTCS Chancellor serves as an ex officio member of the KCTCS Faculty Senate, the representative body charged with recommending academic policy and curricula development to the KCTCS President.
The new KCTCS Faculty Senate convened in August, 2004, incorporating the established Community College Senate and the newer Technical College group. The Faculty Senate Council serves as the executive committee for the body.
Faculty Senate Chairs:
District Concept
By 2002, the eleven districts that contained both community college and technical colleges had begun the formal process of consolidation into one college with a single president/CEO and multiple campuses. KCTCS, today a nationally recognized community college system, completed its consolidation efforts in 2005 with 16 colleges on 65 campuses. In 2008, two more campuses have been added, bringing the total to 67.
The Pathway to Success“ It is critical that we remain on the cutting edge and not the trailing edge by advocating the use of technology in all areas of our operations.” - KCTCS President, Michael McCall
Throughout more than three decades of community and technical college experience, founding President McCall has been recognized for his advanced collaborative partnerships, commitment to economic development, innovative use of technology, and implementation of team-oriented management.
President McCall’s Annual Initiatives
2000 - R.S.V.P - Responsive Solutions through Vigorous Planning
2005 - P.A.C.E. II - Planning, Accountability, Campaigns, ExternalThe KCTCS FoundationThe total raised by The Fulfilling the Promise Campaign initiated in October 2001, is aproaching $86 million.
The KCTCS Foundation Inc., is the not-for-profit, 501(c) (3) fundraising arm of the System. Chartered in August, 1999 and governed by an independent board of directors, the KCTCS Foundation, Inc. supports the System by:
Foundation Directors, 1999-2008
The KCTCS Foundation, Inc. Charter Members included:
The Permanent Home“Texas Instruments was high tech…they were cutting edge, and so is KCTCS. Gil Wood [long-time TI Manager] was, and Mike McCall is, a forward-thinking visionary. TI people were community minded, so are the folks at KCTCS.” - Versailles Mayor Fred Siegelman
System Office Building Dedication Ceremony, November 19, 2004
The Kentucky Community and Technical College System dedicated its new System Office on November 19, 2004. Over 400 participants, including community leaders, government officials, and representatives from education, business and industry, and KCTCS employees, attended the ceremony and reception. Students in the Culinary Arts program of Bowling Green Technical College catered the event.
Through the creation of the TI-KCTCS Public Properties Corporation, the City of Versailles was able to accept the donation of the building and 20 acres of property from Texas Instruments and finance a $6.8 million renovation project guided by KCTCS requirements.
The Next Level“What was once a narrow doorway for a privileged few is now an open gateway for every Kentuckian. - Michael McCall, 2006 Ky Almanac
A Personal Message from KCTCS Founding President, Dr. Michael B. McCall
As we end our first ten years it is time to reflect both on our past and our future. Since 1998, efforts have been focused on implementing a new college system and fulfilling our mission. Now it is time for us to look to the horizon and address Kentucky’s future workforce needs as we face the demands of the new world economy.
Having spent time on the ocean, I am ever mindful that even the calmest winds and fairest weather may conceal a brewing storm. This image appropriately describes the powerful forces encircling Kentucky and threatening our position in the globally competitive marketplace. Identifying the effects of forces such as a changing economy, shifting demographic trends, and an inadequately skilled workforce, leads to the realization that a devastating storm is brewing on our horizon.
In November, 2007, KCTCS introduced the Plan for a Competitive Commonwealth that outlines the specific steps to be taken in order to weather these forces and meet the needs of Kentucky’s changing economy. The Plan calls for the launching of three major initiatives in 2008, our tenth anniversary year: Workforce Competitiveness, Virtual Learning, and Transfer Education.
The workforce competitiveness initiative, resulting from the 2007 KCTCS report entitled In the Eye of the Storm: Confronting Kentucky’s Looming Workforce Crisis, involves the re-engineering of KCTCS workforce and education training divisions to be more responsive to the needs of Kentucky’s businesses and industries.
To meet the unmet need of pursuing higher education in an online, anywhere, anyplace, and anytime environment, KCTCS will be launching a virtual learning initiative entitled KCTCS Online that is completely learner-centered and will allow adults to pursue higher education 24/7, 365 days a year without ever having to physically enter the doors of any of our colleges.
Our focus on transfer education will include more direct dialogues with Kentucky’s public university presidents, the establishment of transfer education centers at each of our 16 colleges, and the ongoing assessment and addition of 2+2 agreements with universities.
Higher education is critically important to the future of our state, our nation, and the world. After ten years of Metamorphosis, KCTCS has addressed a host of challenges and opportunities, and has emerged as a vital educational system, transforming the lives of hundreds of thousands of learners. Through its comprehensive network of 16 colleges and 67 campuses reaching from the mountains of Eastern Kentucky to the lakes of Western Kentucky, KCTCS is where higher education begins for most Kentuckians. We are constantly striving to create opportunity that improves employability and quality of life for every citizen.
As we close the first decade’s chapter in KCTCS history, we must thank our board members, faculty, staff, donors, business partners, and the Kentucky General Assembly for their persistence, vision, and leadership. Last, but certainly not least, we owe a sincere debt of gratitude to our students. Thank you for believing in our mission and for establishing KCTCS as the largest provider of postsecondary education and workforce training in the state. KCTCS appreciates the past years of support and asks for your continued commitment as we begin our next ten years of service to the Commonwealth.
Ashland Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Located in the foothills of Eastern Kentucky, Ashland Community and Technical College is a comprehensive college founded from predecessors Ashland Junior College and Ashland Vocational School.
Student Story
At the June 1999 KCTCS Board of Regents meeting, Chair Martha Johnson recognized two “firsts’’ for KCTCS. On May 13, 1999, 26-year-old James Travis Todd graduated from Ashland Community College (ACC) with an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Law Enforcement Technology, becoming the first recipient of a KCTCS credential. His degree was also one of the first five associate in applied science programs approved for KCTCS. In September of that year, Travis spoke at President Michael McCall’s inauguration, representing the 45,000 students of KCTCS. Travis explains, “My degree certainly helped me. I took some courses before going into the Military for five years. When I returned in 1999, it had really changed. It was a whole new world after ACC joined KCTCS. When I took a computer class before, we had to boot the machine with a DOS disc . . . no mouse or anything, and I made a ‘C.’ In 1999, it was very high tech . . . I made an ‘A’ in the class.” “Now my wife has enrolled and is taking all her classes online so that she can stay at home with our two-year-old son.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Ashland Community and Technical College offers more than 150 credit program options, with the most popular majors being Liberal Arts and Sciences, Nursing (Associate Degree and Licensed Practical Nurse), Business Administration and Management, and Welding and Electrical Technologies. Ashland’s 4,758 student enrollment incorporates 1,023 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 685 students via online courses. Today, ACTC serves more than 3,000 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 1,765; Community Education enrolls 143; and Workforce Development students number 1,186.
Big Sandy Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Located in far Eastern Kentucky, Big Sandy Community and Technical College is a comprehensive college that evolved from Mayo State Vocational School and Prestonsburg Community College, institutions with a long history of community service in the counties of Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin, and Pike.
Student Story
Troy Burchett came to BSCTC to
pursue a degree when several other avenues had closed to him. Legally blind and hindered by family, financial, and social circumstances, Troy was the first in his family to attempt to earn a college degree.
Although it took him a little longer than some others to complete his associate degree, he pursued his dream diligently.
Troy toured with the elite singing group the Big Sandy Singers from its inception. Shortly after enrolling at Morehead State University to continue his education, Troy was signed by a Nashville record company and is pursuing a solo singing career. He credits his success and his opportunities to the individual attention and caring that he received at BSCTC.
2008 Profile
In 2008, Big Sandy Community and Technical College offers 193 credit program options, with the most popular majors being Liberal Arts and Sciences, Nursing, Business Administration and Management, Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration, and Medical Administrative/ Executive Assistant/ Medical Secretary. Big Sandy CTC’s 4,866 student enrollment incorporates 1,179 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 2,810 students via online courses. Today BSCTC serves more than 4,600 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 1,613; Community Education enrolls 495; and Workforce Development students number 2,543.
Bluegrass Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Located in the heart of the Central Kentucky region, Bluegrass Community and Technical College traces its evolution to Lexington’s Lafayette Vocational School and Lexington Technical Institute (LTI).
Student Story
Woodford County High School senior Nick Arrington enjoys eating lunch with his fellow students in the school cafeteria and discussing his “college classes.” “That’s pretty cool!” Nick comments. In the Arrington household, there has never been a question about Nick and his sister going to college. That idea has been a part of his family’s plan from day one. Nick, an avid musician, is interested in politics and plans to go to law school. Like many high school seniors, Nick completed most required coursework at the end of the first semester of his senior year. Guided by the high school counselor, he decided to enroll at Lexington’s Bluegrass Community and Technical College, 15 miles from the family’s Versailles home. Taking advantage of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System’s dual-enrollment/dual-credit program, Nick and his counselor called BCTC and worked with the course planner selecting courses and times that would work with his schedule. “Dual enrollment was a pretty easy process,” said Nick.
During the spring semester, Nick attends morning English, choir, and weightlifting classes at the high school. Four afternoons each week, he drives to the BCTC Cooper Campus and meets his college classmates in Algebra 109 and Sociology 101 classes. “The instructors teach the curriculum well.”
“There are a couple of high-schoolers in my class, freshmen through senior college kids, and a lot of people in their 40’s or older. It was a little shocking the first day on the college campus. It’s a lot different, a more laid back structure, more casual. I’m going to like the college atmosphere! You’re more on your own.”
In May 2008, when Nick graduates from Woodford County High, he will have earned an AP (Advanced Placement) high school diploma and can proudly display a college transcript listing six credit hours. “I’ll have close to a 3.0 GPA for high school, but in my college classes I think I’ll get A’s.”
“I’m telling my friends about college dual enrollment! If people just try it, it’s not too hard. The worst part is that I’ve already gotten two parking tickets on the UK campus!”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Bluegrass Community and Technical College offers more than 40 credit program options. The most popular majors are Liberal Arts and Sciences, Nursing, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training, Medical Radiologic Technology, and Executive Assistant/Executive Secretary. BCTC’s 11,617 student enrollment incorporates 781 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 3,192 students via online courses. Today, BCTC serves more than 10,500 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 6,158; Community Education enrolls 1,241; and Workforce Development students number 3,282.
Bowling Green Technical CollegeCampuses
Situated in South Central Kentucky, Bowling Green Technical College (BGTC) was created in 1939 to train Armed Forces personnel. Located on the Russellville Road near the present site of Western Kentucky University’s University Center, the college was known as Western Trade School. Following World War II, the federal government released the facility to the State Department of Education, Bureau of Vocational Education and Western Teachers College to be operated as an area trade school.
Student Story
For Micki Petkovic of Yugoslavia, the wait to become a U.S. citizen has seemed long but is now close to becoming a reality. Micki began his training at Bowling Green Technical College’s Kentucky Advanced Technology Institute (KATI) Campus in 1999, when the company he worked for offered to pay for his training to complete required classes in maintenance.
“I came to this country 10 years ago in 1997 when my father who was living here sent for me and my family,” said Petkovic. “It has been my dream for a long time to become a citizen of this country. Many people who live here do not realize how truly great it is to live here and have the freedom that many people in the world do not enjoy. The opportunities for educationand employment are very important to me. In fact, ever since I took off from the airport in Belgrade, my dream has been to become a U.S. citizen. I really enjoy the training and atmosphere here at KATI, also the instructors and students . . . they are so helpful.”
“Due to the fact that you must wait five years before applying for citizenship, I have just recently finished my paperwork and on November 19, 2007, I took my citizenship test in Louisville.”
Micki lives in Bowling Green with his wife and two daughters, ages nine and 15. When he finishes his associate degree at KATI, he plans to go to Western Kentucky University and complete his B.S. in Industrial Management.
2008 Profile
In 2008, Bowling Green Technical College offers more than 120 program options, with the most popular majors being Nursing/Allied Health and Medical Radiologic Technology. Bowling Green’s 5,025 student enrollment includes 1,198 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 185 students via online courses. Today BGTC serves more than 4,700 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs enroll 2,944, and Community Education/Workforce Development students number 1,831.
Elizabethtown Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, located in North Central Kentucky’s Hardin County, traces its origin to Elizabethtown Community College and Elizabethtown Vocational Extension Center, later named Elizabethtown Technical College.
Student Story
“Better preparation . . . costing less... I’m thrilled!” This was Jericho Herringshaw’s reaction after hearing that the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College’s pre-pharmacy program is rated among the best.
“I didn’t even know ECTC offered the program until I heard how well two of my brother’s classmates, former students at ECTC, were doing at UK. They were more prepared than my brother, who had attended another major university’s pre-pharmacy program.”
Before finishing ECTC’s program, Jericho took the Pharmacy College Admissions Test and scored in the 99th percentile. “The science faculty here prepared me so well that I felt up to the challenge,” said Jericho. “Tests I’ve taken at ECTC were actually harder than the PCAT. I’m so impressed with what ECTC offers.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College offers 30 programs, many with multiple options. The most popular majors are Liberal Arts and Sciences, Business Administration and Management, Nursing, Educational/Instructional Media Design, and Medical Radiologic Technology. Elizabethtown’s 5,515 student enrollment includes 77 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 1,217 students via online courses. ECTC also serves more than 4,500 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 723; community Education enrolls 545; and Workforce Development students number 3,241.
Gateway Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Gateway Community and Technical College (GCTC) can trace its origin to 1939 when the Kenton County high schools began teaching Distributive Education. With the onset of World War II, the schools began training skilled laborers for national defense. By January 1945, Northern Kentucky State Vocational School had enrolled more than 1,000 students and offered preparatory classes in welding, automotive repair, woodworking, radio and TV repair, drafting, electronics, printing, machine shop, typewriting and shorthand.
Student Story
Single mom. Role model. Inspiration. Respected leader. Student.
Kinta Joseph is all of these, not to mention a Hurricane Katrina survivor. In August 2005, Joseph would have claimed only the title of single mom. That was when she lived in the Eighth Ward of New Orleans before Hurricane Katrina turned her life upside down. Kinta led a busy life in New Orleans, but, according to her, it was meaningless. “I was working hard to get nowhere. I had two jobs I couldn’t stand. I was a single parent trying to get my kids through school,” she recalled.
Joseph and her four children were among the thousands who fled from the killer storm. “We escaped an hour before the 6 p.m. curfew that was imposed as the storm approached,” Joseph recalled. “There were 17 of us traveling together. We drove north away from the storm. After we got about 100 miles away, we began looking for a place to stop.”
Finally, the group found a shelter at Immanuel Methodist Church in Lakeside Park, Kentucky, and through the kindness of counselors was encouraged to move to Northern Kentucky. After several months of settling into the community, Kinta’s case worker suggested that she continue her education. Kinta was led to the Urban Learning Center and months later to Gateway Community and Technical College. After learning that several local educational partnerships offered assistance and career options for struggling populations, “I decided to go for it . . . and I did!”
Why Gateway? Kinta didn’t want to go to a large university. Being out of school for 19 years meant she didn’t want to be with a bunch of kids. “I wanted to still maintain my home and be a mom. I was intimidated by the younger kids, and I thought I would be out of my realm but I really liked the small class sizes at Gateway,” Kinta says. She is pursuing a degree in criminal justice and is on track for completion in December 2008.
Joseph’s Gateway experience and the impact it has had on her life moves her to tears. “It’s been so wonderful. I love what Gateway represents: families, community, love and, through all of that, fun. The small class sizes help me to interact with people my own age, and teachers care! They take time and give one-on-one assistance,” she explained. Gateway’s President, Dr. G. Edward Hughes, and faculty members Melissa Fry and Tim Chesser provided special encouragement and votes of confidence for this once rudderless mom. She wants her 15-year-old son to see her walk across the stage, so he knows the importance of education.
“Gateway is wonderful,” Kinta states. “It has changed my life in so many ways. If I have anything to do with it, my kids will definitely attend college, and they will be students of Gateway.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Gateway Community and Technical College offers more than 200 credit program options, with the most popular majors being Nursing, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Business Administration and Management, Computer and Information Sciences, and Child Care
Provider/Assistant. GCTC’s 3,130 student enrollment includes 439 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 161 students via online courses. Today, Gateway serves more than 6,400 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 3,561 and Workforce Development students number 2,858.
Hazard Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Student Story
In 2005, 35-year-old Matt Johnson broke a 19-year-old weightlifting record by benching 555 pounds. While maintaining a rigorous training schedule, Matt decided to enroll as a fulltime student at the Knott County Branch of Hazard Community and Technical College. “It was time to get my education to make a better future for myself,” Matt said.
After high school, the Hindman native had attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and then returned to Floyd County to work as a deputy sheriff for 10 years before returning to school. Studying to be a physical therapist assistant at HCC and overcoming the problems associated with dyslexia, Matt maintained a 3.6 GPA. “The discipline of my training helps me to focus on my school work. It has shown me you have to work hard to get what you want.”
“The faculty at HCTC is outstanding and is willing to help me out in all aspects of what I need to succeed.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Hazard Community and Technical College offers many credit program options, with the most popular majors being Nursing, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training, Medical Radiologic Technology, and Business Administration and Management. Hazard’s 4,458 student enrollment includes 931 high school students served through dual enrollment/dual-credit courses and 1,051 students via online courses. Today, HCTC serves more than 15,800 community and economic development participants. Community Education programs serve 12,327 and Workforce Development students number 3,487.
Henderson Community CollegeCampuses
Located on the banks of the Ohio River in Western Kentucky, Henderson Community College (HCC) has provided decades of service to its community. In 1957, A.B. “Happy” Chandler, a Henderson native and two-term Kentucky governor, provided leadership in securing legislation to construct the college.
Student Story
If all older Americans followed Jane Bennett Hendrick’s example, rocking chair manufacturers would see their sales dramatically plummeting. Jane represents a new breed of senior citizens – those who not only reject the idea of retirement but start a whole new career in their golden years. Jane, 65, received her Henderson Community College associate degree in nursing and graduated with honors in 2006. She has maintained an “A” average but modestly insists it was “a low A.”
Jane said it’s taken her three years to meet all the requirements for graduation from the nursing program, and that has meant a lot of late nights, early mornings and cold dinners. But she obviously doesn’t regret a minute of it because her degree is the realization of a 46-year dream. Jane has the highest praise for the HCC nursing faculty and said they have done a “wonderful job” of preparing the students for their new profession.
“At 62, I had to take the ACT,” she groaned. “They didn’t accept the entrance exam I took at UK.” She did well on the ACT and “that convinced me I could do this.”
On the second day of 2007, the 1959 Henderson County High graduate became a Methodist Hospital nurse who will “float” between the Medical, Surgical and Telemetry units. She has no intention of retiring. “I intend to work till I drop.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Henderson Community College offers 61 credit program options. The most popular majors are Nursing, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Business Administration and Management, Child Care Provider, and Medical/Clinical Assistant. Henderson’s 2,053 student enrollment includes 216 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 1,410 students via online courses. Today, HCC serves more than 2,900 community and economic development participants. Adult and Community Education programs enroll 1,537, and Workforce Development students number 1,441.
Hopkinsville Community CollegeCampuses
Authorized by Governor Bert T. Combs’ 1962 House Bill 234, Hopkinsville Community College (HCC) became a reality in 1965. Through the efforts of a local advisory board and native son, Governor Edward T. Breathitt, the College was established as the University of Kentucky’s ninth community college, and conferred 26 diplomas during its first commencement ceremony in May of 1967. Dr. Thomas L. Riley, the college’s founding president, served at Hopkinsville for 24 years.
Student Story
Jerod Ganster and Trent Young have been best friends since high school. After school, they both obtained jobs at Hopkinsville’s Plymouth Extruded Shapes, a local metal fabricating company.
Nearby Hopkinsville Community College offered classes in technical education and the two decided to enroll. “I always liked working with my hands,” said Jerod, who worked full time and went to school for two years.
“The machine tool program at HCC exposes students to real-world, leadingedge technology, and modern equipment, and gives the graduate the leg up on the competition.”
Jerod and Trent are the first in their families to graduate from college. Receiving certifications in machine operation, the two were among 394 students at HCC’s commencement ceremony in May 2005. Some of their fellow classmates earned technical credentials and went directly into the workforce, while others attained transfer degrees and transitioned to four-year institutions.
The men’s Plymouth supervisor, Bob Powell, attended the graduation ceremonies to celebrate with his employees. He is pleased with HCC’s technical program because it generates confident, knowledgeable employees who don’t need additional on-the-job training. “This is a great community resource for us as employers,” Powell said.
“I’m better in the field I’m in now. I could get a job anywhere for the rest of my life,” Trent said. “School has prepared me for whatever I might face.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Hopkinsville Community College offers degrees, diplomas, and certificates in 37 areas, and 19 program options. The college’s most popular majors are Liberal Arts and Sciences, Nursing, Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration, Business
Administration and Management, and Child Care Provider/Assistant. Hopkinsville’s 3,428 student enrollment includes 312 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 1,070 students via online courses. Today, HCC serves more than 2,600 community and economic development participants. Community Education programs enroll 735; and Workforce Development students number 1,887.
Jefferson Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC) is based in downtown Louisville with two campuses in Downtown Louisville, one in southwest Jefferson County, and one each in Carrollton and Shelby County. Following the 1997 creation of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, Jefferson Community College and Jefferson Technical College consolidated to become JCTC on July 1, 2005.
Student Story
As Kenny Boyd left the warmth of The Salvation Army Homeless Shelter each morning at 6:00
a.m. and walked across the campus of Jefferson Community College, he often wondered what sort of place it was. As a 12-year-old child, Kenny began living the “street life” of drug addiction, homelessness, jail, and hopelessness, until, as a 30-year-old, he overcame his drug addiction with the help of Louisville’s The Healing Place. He subsequently earned his high school diploma, and returned to the same JCC campus, earning an associate degree in Human Sciences.
“Someone” at JCC suggested that Kenny begin his own program of dealing with at-risk youth, developed from his own early story of “no role models, no goals, no integrity, hopelessness.” Youth Alive, founded in 1998 with a gift from an anonymous donor, is based on Kenny Boyd’s personal story and maintains the motto, “Breaking the Cycle, Reclaiming our Youth.” Working with at-risk youth ages 10 to 17 years old, Youth Alive is based on the seven principles of Integrity, Discipline, Community Involvement, Leadership, Empathy, Self-Respect, and Academic Performance.
Jefferson Community and Technical College graduate Kenny Boyd has received many stateand community awards, including JCTC’s 2006 Distinguished Alumni Award. In January of 2008, Governor Steve Beshear appointed Kenny Boyd to the JCTC Board of Directors.
Kenny often encourages youth with the words, “Don’t give up five minutes before the miracle.” Today, thousands of youth who have been encouraged by Youth Alive are happy Kenny Boyd didn’t give up too quickly.
2008 Profile
In 2008, Jefferson Community and Technical College offers more than 300 associate degree, diploma, and certificate options in 70 fields of study. The most popular majors are Liberal Arts and Sciences, Nursing and Allied Health, Business Administration and Management, Medical Radiologic Technology, and Child Care Provider. Jefferson’s 15,478 student enrollment includes 2,904 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 3,382 students via online courses. Today, JCTC serves more than 6,800 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 1,663, and Workforce Development students number 5,176.
Madisonville Community CollegeCampuses
Located in the heart of Western Kentucky, Madisonville Community College (MCC) traces its origin to the Kentucky Legislature’s Community College Act of 1962. After years of community activism by an Advisory Board and the Madisonville College Foundation, Madisonville Community College opened its doors in 1968. Under the auspices of the University of Kentucky and with the leadership of first president, Dr. G. Harold Massey, the college enrolled 186 students in classes held in borrowed buildings behind the community’s high school.
Student Story
Robin Groves enrolled in classes at Madisonville Community College in 2002 as a nontraditional student. After high school, she married and had her children Ivy and Levi. “I wanted to do something in the health field, but once I took anatomy, I loved it and wanted to go into nursing,” she said.
One spring morning in 2004 before heading to class at MCC, Robin put her two children on the school bus and began experiencing pain and pressure in her chest. As she was being loaded into the ambulance, she recalls asking her husband, Joey, to contact her professor and let her know why she wouldn’t be in class.
For Robin and her family, the next few harrowing weeks were filled with a diagnosis of an aneurysm, days of intense pain, and three major heart surgeries. Displaying a determination to complete her degree and realize the dream of becoming a nurse, Robin received an “A” on the nursing cardiac test just three weeks after her own surgery.
Robin Groves received her RN degree in May 2005 at Madisonville Community College and began her new job in the cardiac unit at Regional Medical Center the next month. She expressed thanks to her instructors and Madisonville Community College officials for understanding her extenuating circumstances, and for providing support and assistance that allowed her to realize her dream.
“When it happened, I was so upset that I wasn’t going to get to finish school. I’d finally figured out what I wanted in my life. It taught me that determination is everything and to never give up on what you want to do, despite what comes your way.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Madisonville Community College offers 21 credit program options. The most popular majors are Nursing,
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies, Business Administration and Management, Medical Radiologic Technology, and Medical
Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary. Madisonville’s 4,364 student enrollment includes 798 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 945 students via online courses. Today, MCC serves more than 9,600 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 2,341; Community Education enrolls 1,481; and Workforce Development students number 5,857.
Maysville Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Located in Northern Kentucky on the Ohio River, Maysville Community and Technical College (MCTC) evolved from two institutions, Maysville Community College and the Ashland Vocational System.
Student Story
It is often said that the definition of success is preparation meeting opportunity. Adrene Commodore is an example of a student who has tenaciously prepared and improved her professional credentials through MCTC programs that are designed with opportunities for success at many levels.
Adrene Commodore’s mother always wanted her to go to nursing school. “She has been my inspiration to accomplish this goal.” Coupled with her love of the geriatrics nursing field and because MCTC provided classes nearby, Adrene was able to enroll in a Nurse Aide Assistant class. The class prepared her to successfully complete the test for state Nurse Aide certification, and that certification allowed her to apply for a position with the Grand Haven Nursing Home.
While working at the nursing home, Adrene learned of a new Career Pathways Program at the Licking Valley Center near her home. In 2004, for the first time, the citizens of Cynthiana were given the opportunity to obtain a Practical Nursing degree. Attending classes in the evening, Adrene successfully completed her degree in the fall of 2006.
Although Adrene’s mother was very ill at the time, she was able to attend her daughter’s LPN pinning ceremony. Adrene says, “It’s doable! With two children and a sick mother to care for, it wasn’t easy. But MCTC’s flexible schedule allowed me to complete my degree and advance in the career I had chosen while still living up to my other responsibilities. My degree qualified me for my current position as Assistant Director of Nursing at Grand Haven Nursing Home – and my new career means I’m better able than ever to care for my family.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Maysville Community and Technical College offers 51 credit program options, with the most popular majors being Liberal
Arts and Sciences, Nursing (RN), Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training, Business Administration and Management. Maysville’s 3,635 student enrollment includes 871 high school students served through dual enrollment/dual-credit courses and 2,870 students via online courses. Today, MCTC serves 4,800 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 1,665; Community Education enrolls 1,043; and Workforce Development students number 3,027.
Owensboro Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Located on the banks of the Ohio River at the eastern edge of Kentucky’s Western Coal Field region, Owensboro is Kentucky’s third-largest city. Owensboro Community and Technical College is a two-year, comprehensive college originating from the city’s Community College and two Vocational Schools.
Student Story
Meet George Henderson, an OCTC graduate, OCTC board member, and System Analyst with UniFirst Corporation.
“I attended Owensboro Community and Technical College because a friend recommended it to me. I was a nontraditional student, coming out of the workforce, caught in a layoff, and did not have a job. I thought the best thing for me to do was to go back and complete my education.”
“I checked on scholarships and found out that I qualified. I was overjoyed that the cost was reasonable, something I could afford because I still had to maintain my home and family while attending school. My scholarship gave me peace of mind.”
“I completed two associate degrees in Accounting and Business, with a minor in Computer Science. I was able to transfer to another college where I earned my fouryear degree in Computer Science. Now, I am a Computer Programmer with a good-paying job and I love what I do. I still visit the College, but now I teach an evening class for OCTC instead of taking one. This allows me to earn a little extra money while giving something back to the College and our community.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Owensboro Community and Technical College offers 35 credit program options. The most popular majors are Liberal Arts and Sciences, Nursing, Business Administration and Management, Medical Radiologic Technology, and Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training. Owensboro’s 5,439 student enrollment includes 1,788 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 446 students via online courses. Today, OCTC serves more than 5,800 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 2,538; Community Education enrolls 1,147; and Workforce Development students number 2,149.
Somerset Community CollegeCampuses
Somerset Community College is a public, two-year institution serving the south central region of Kentucky. Laurel Technical College, Somerset Community College, and Somerset Technical College evolved into a comprehensive community and technical college whose beginnings reach back to 1940.
Student Story
How did a student from England end up in Somerset, Kentucky? The journey began when David Evans met his girlfriend, Jacklyn Atwell of Somerset, on the Internet. And then how did that student become Kentucky’s number-one community college student?
Phi Theta Kappa, the academic honor society for two-year colleges, named Somerset Community College student David Evans the 2008 New Century Scholar for Kentucky. This prestigious award includes a $2,000 stipend from Coca-Cola, and recognition at the American Association of Community Colleges and Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society joint convention in April. “In simple terms, we can say that, based on the applications of students who applied for the AACC-USA Today Academic Team, David is the top community college student in Kentucky,” said SCC President Jo Marshall. “This recognition is further confirmation of the excellent job the faculty and staff at SCC are doing.”
David Evans, who was born in London, England, is seeking his associate in arts degree from SCC. He plans to transfer to Western Kentucky University in August 2008 where he intends to complete a computer science bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in environmental science. In addition to his class work, Evans is the editor of the SCC student newspaper, The Bridge, and secretary/treasurer of the SCC Student Government Association.
“SCC was a good option for me,” Evans explained. “It was close to Jacklyn; it offered the fundamental courses I needed, and it was reasonably priced.” About the honor . . .“It’s fantastic. I’m a little overwhelmed.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, Somerset Community College offers many credit program options, with the most popular majors being Liberal Arts and
Sciences; Nursing, Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration, Business Administration and Management, and Medical Radiologic Technology. Somerset’s student enrollment of 7,113 includes 1,233 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 1,634 students via online courses. Today, SCC serves more than 4,700 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 1,255; Community Education enrolls 433; and Workforce Development students number 3,027.
Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College, named in honor of its Kentucky setting, traces its origin to two institutions – Cumberland Valley Technical College and Southeast Community College. Maintaining five campuses, the College’s origins mirror the rich history of the southeast Kentucky region.
Student Story
Mia Sellars-Cornett credits Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College with helping prepare her for a bright future. As a dentist she is making an important contribution to the area.
“Southeast gave me the background and skills to enter the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and it also helped me acquire self confidence and to become much more self reliant,” she said.
Upon graduation from U of L, Mia chose to return to Southeast Kentucky to “give something back” to the area and its people.
“I have fond memories of being a pupil at Southeast, and the faculty, staff and students all joined together to become one large, extended family; I made lasting friendships and was challenged to do well by the caring and qualified faculty. Southeast was a fantastic choice for me!”
2008 Profile
Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College offers 45 program options with the most popular majors being Liberal Arts and
Sciences, Nursing and Allied Health, Medical Radiologic Technology, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training, and Educational/ Instructional Media Design. Southeast Kentucky’s 4,849 enrollment includes 1,516 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses. Today, SKCTC serves more than 5,600 community and economic development participants. Adult and Community Education programs serve 2,379, and Workforce Development students number 3,246.
West Kentucky Community and Technical CollegeCampuses
Located in the western region of Kentucky, West Kentucky Community and Technical College is a comprehensive college created from the foundations of two institutions – Paducah Community College and West Kentucky Technical College.
Student Story
Pryorsburg native Andrea Elder was all smiles as she walked across the Clemens Fine Arts Theatre stage to receive her nursing pin from WKCTC in December 2006. Not only had she completed her degree after several previous attempts, but she and her son, Matthew, were able to reach this goal together.
The daughter of Jimmy Dale and Gail Jackson of Pryorsburg, Andrea graduated from Wingo High School in 1984. Her journey to gain her nursing degree was postponed twice, after she enrolled in 1986 and 1991, due to the birth of her children. Married for 23 years to Scott Elder of Fancy Farm, the 40-year-old mother of five said she waited until her youngest son was in school before enrolling for a third time in 2004.
By that time, Matthew, 23, her oldest son, had already obtained an associate degree in a technical field and had decided to seek a nursing degree at WKCTC.
“I’ve always wanted to be a nurse. Education is so important,” Elder said. “It’s never too late to get an education. I wanted my children to know that, and going back, even if it took three times, was my way to show them you can do it any time. It worked out really well, because we’ve been good study partners.”
2008 Profile
In 2008, West Kentucky Community and Technical College offers more than 200 associate degree, diploma, and certificate options in nearly 40 academic and technical programs. The most popular majors are Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies, Nursing, Executive Assistant/ Executive Secretary, Business Administration and Management, and Medical Radiologic Technology. West Kentucky’s 7,100 student enrollment includes 1,075 high school students served through dual-enrollment/dual-credit courses and 1,692 students via online courses. Today, WKCTC serves more than 11,000 community and economic development participants. Adult Education programs serve 1,626; Community Education enrolls 5,917; and Workforce Development students number 3,761.
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KCTCS 300 N. Main St, Versailles, KY 40383
Tel: (859) 256-3100 | Toll-Free (Kentucky only): (877) 528-2748