West Kentucky News

PADUCAH, KY (April 6, 2016) – Throughout the remaining weeks in April, West Kentucky Community and Technical College will include a wide variety of community education offerings for kids and adults.

Classes are listed as follows.

Challenger Semester Offerings

Club Challenger B
April 19, 4:15 – 5:45 p.m.
Challenger Learning Center at Paducah, WKCTC campus
Age: Current Grades 3-5
Students can explore the amazing wonders of science during the Challenger Learning Center after school program, Club Challenger. Students join the fun once a month to participate in exciting hands-on activities related to space and science. Cost: $45

Between Earth & Sky
April 23, 9 – 11 a.m.
Challenger Learning Center at Paducah, WKCTC campus
Age: Daisy Girl Scouts
How does a seed become a plant? Take a nature walk and learn all about seeds through hands-on activities and experiments in the Journey series, “It’s Your Planet – Love It!” Cost: $15.

Wow! Wonders of Water
April 23, Noon – 2 p.m.
Challenger Learning Center at Paducah, WKCTC campus
Age: Brownie Girl Scouts
Learn about the wonderful world of water through experiments with conservation, filtration and the water cycle. These activities are from the Journey series, “It’s Your Planet – Love It!” Cost: $15.

Space Traveler
April 29-30, 7 p.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Challenger Learning Center at Paducah, WKCTC campus
Age: Junior Girl Scouts
During this overnight trip, be one of the few to earn the title of Girl Scout Space Traveler! In the evening, scouts will train for their mission Rendezvous with a Comet™. Then make an out of this world snack and spend the night under the stars in our star dome. In the morning, students will fly the mission in our space simulators. Cost: $40.

Culinary Offerings

See What’s Cooking with Traci Ledford
April 12, 19 or 26, 6 – 9 p.m.
Anderson Technical Building, Room 159
Age: Adult
Learn to cook delicious meals on a budget with expert Traci Ledford. Cost per class: $45.

• April 12 – Easy Homemade Mexi-Meal
• April 19 – Getting Down to the Delicious Basics
• April 26 – Mother's Day Special

For a full description of each class visit http://ws.kctcs.edu/westkentucky, select Culinary.

One Session Cake Decorating
April 18 or 25, 6 – 8 p.m.
Emerging Technology Center, Room 114
Age: Adults, all skill levels
Cake decorating is one of the most popular continuing education courses offered at WKCTC this spring! Certified Wilton Method Instructor Linda Mayes, who has been decorating cakes for nearly 20 years, will teach the one-session classes. Cost for class is $28.50.

• April 18 – 5 Steps to a Great Cake!
An additional estimated cost of $23 for required student class supplies applies.

• April 25 – Cupcake Basics
An additional estimated cost of $13 for required student class supplies applies.

For a full description of each class and required student class list visit http://ws.kctcs.edu/westkentucky, select Culinary.

Friday Night Science Offering

Hot Wheels Lab
April 22, 5 – 7 p.m.
Challenger Learning Center at Paducah, WKCTC campus
Age: Current Grades 1 – 5
Students will discover the science behind Hot Wheels cars as they engineer different tracks and explore how the height of the ramp transfers energy to the car. Cost: $25

Paducah School of Art and Design Community Offerings

Welding for Artists and Hobbyists
April 16, 23, 30 and May 7, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Sculpture Building
919 Madison Street, Downtown Paducah
Age: Adult
Students in this class will cover the basics of ARC welding as well as Oxy-Acetylene welding. Safety and best practices will be covered with an eye toward providing basic skills for participants who would like to know how to weld but not within a vocational context. Cost: $120. An additional $80 estimated cost for student supplies available from PSAD.

Registration for summer camps are now being taken. Download a full listing of summer camps and upcoming community education classes at http://issuu.com/jblythe0001/docs/communityeducation/1.

Preregistration is required for all classes and early registration is encouraged. The registration deadline is seven days prior to class starting date. Classes may be cancelled due to lack of enrollment. Register online at http://ws.kctcs.edu/westkentucky/category/category.aspx or by calling 270-534-3335.

For more information about the Community Education Catalog or upcoming offerings, contact Kevin O’Neill, WKCTC community education director, at kevin.oneill@kctcs.edu or 270-534-3206.

Paducah, Kentucky (April 7, 2016) - Attend a concert, have a vehicle pollution check, learn about HVAC energy efficiency and join the book exchange. These are just a few of the free events available to the community during West Kentucky Community and Technical College’s Earth Day Celebration April 16-22. Friday, April 22 is Earth Day.

The week’s events kickoff with the seventh annual Concert in the Park Saturday, April 16 from 3 – 10 p.m. at Carson Park, rain or shine. Concessions will be available.

Family-friendly events with fun children’s activities such as sack races, face painting and horseback rides will be part of the day’s celebration.

The concert begins at 3 p.m. and features live music and poetry readings. Musical guests are The Legendary Jack Martin & Good Company, Art Thieves, Shannon Vetter, Wes Blackwood, Barely Blue, Ryan Steele and The Mulungeons. Guest poets are Levi McDuffy, Chole Quint, Grace Yocum and Samuel “Snacks” Hawkins.

WKCTC has started a new Earth Day tradition with its first book exchange, which will run throughout the college’s weeklong Earth Day Celebration from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day in Matheson Library.

“Everyone is invited to bring a book they would like to donate and then take a book they would like to read. What a wonderful way for our faculty, staff, students and community to join together to encourage reading,” said Amy Sullivan, WKCTC’s interim director of library services. “It also allows everyone to participate in recycling books to help our environment,” she said. Remaining books will be donated to Better World Books.

On Tuesday, April 19 at WKCTC’s Skilled Craft Training Center in Hickory, individuals can learn about solar power and HVAC efficiency in the center’s Green Energy Auditing Simulator from 10 a.m. to noon. A vehicle pollution check including tires and tailpipe emissions will also be available from noon to 2 p.m. Vehicles will be checked on a first-come, first-served basis.

Animal lovers will get a special treat Wednesday, April 20 outside Haws Gym between 10 a.m. and noon as WKCTC’s Shawn Harper brings a variety of large and small animals to campus. Visitors will have the opportunity pet and hold some of the animals.

Learn about alternative energy with a solar thermal panel demonstration outside WKCTC’s Emerging Technology Center Thursday, April 21 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. The demonstration will be cancelled in inclement weather.

All events are free and open to the public.

For more information about the HVAC efficiency demonstration and vehicle pollution checks, contact the Skilled Craft Training Center at (270) 856-2400. For Concert in the Park information, contact David Nickell, WKCTC Concept Zero advisor, at (270) 534-3269. For other Earth Day event information contact Bobby Lee, WKCTC Earth Day coordinator, at (270) 534-3237.

PADUCAH, KY (March 11, 2016) – As the flowers continue to bloom this spring, West Kentucky Community and Technical College is offering a second floral design class for beginners to help community members design beautiful floral creations.

The class will be held four consecutive Thursday evenings April 28, May 5, 12 and 19. The class will be held from 5:30 – 8 p.m. in the college’s Emerging Technology Center, Room 140.

Instructor Maryann Cain is back to teach the four-week class. Cain is a floral business owner and designer, interior decorator and specialty painter. She will teach participants the following design techniques.

• Bow making
• Finding your style
• Summer arrangements for porch and deck
• Wedding flowers how to’s

The cost is $89 for the four-session course. Some course supplies will need to be furnished by each student.

Register for the floral design classes by calling 270-534-3335 or online at http://ws.kctcs.edu/westkentucky, select Floral Design.

Paducah, KY (April 15, 2016) – Jessica Alexander, a student at West Kentucky Community and Technical College, is the first in her family to go to college. Throughout her childhood, she thought that would never happen. Diagnosed with dyslexia in kindergarten, she has faced many challenges. But with her dedication and determination, Alexander excels academically and works hard daily to overcome that challenge. That strength is just one of the reasons Alexander was recently named WKCTC’s March Student of the Month.

Surprised and honored to be Student of the Month, Alexander said she is proud of her accomplishments. “I was diagnosed (with dyslexia) so early; I was taught to do word exercises, along with all the rest of the work that was demanded of me throughout school,” said 21-year-old Alexander, a Livingston County native.

“Although I may sometimes still mix up my letters or may get a word wrong all together, I continue to work hard and earn high grades. To those who have learning problems and want to still go college, you can do it. Just find a college that has a great learning assistance program and smaller classes like WKCTC,” Alexander said.

As a student ambassador at the college, Alexander volunteers both on and off campus. She serves on WKCTC’s academic appeals committee and diversity and inclusion advisory committee. She volunteers for the Barbeque on the River each year and helped with this year’s Super Sunday celebration focused on Hispanic recruitment.

“Jessica stands out at functions as a positive role model and college representative. She is a servant to the community and is always willing to give back to improve the community where we live and work,” said Dr. Belinda Dalton-Russell, WKCTC vice president of student development. “She provides prospective visitors and students with a realistic glimpse of the WKCTC experience, ...and she is able to promote student success and serve as an exemplary example,” said Russell.

Working toward an associate in science degree, Alexander is set to graduate from WKCTC in December 2016, and plans transfer to Southern Virginia University. Her goal in life is to help others as a physical therapist assistant.

The Student of the Month program is designed to recognize the accomplishments of students on campus. Individuals selected must be currently enrolled at WKCTC and have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher and are nominated on the basis of exceptional performance, personal attributes, academic excellence and active participation in various student organizational activities.

Student of the Month recipients receive $100, a certificate of excellence, recognition on the WKCTC Facebook page, campus announcements and Web site. Recipients are also recognized by Pepsi MidAmerica and receive one free month's supply of their favorite Pepsi product.

PADUCAH, KY (April 18, 2016) – Paducah School of Art and Design (PSAD) will exhibit artworks by students currently enrolled in its Survival Skills for Artists class beginning with an opening reception April 23 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Maiden Alley Cinema in downtown Paducah.

PSAD’s Professor of Drawing Randy Simmons teaches the Survival Skills for Artists class. Participating students are Aundria Bates, Lu Colby, Michael Copeland, Victoria Dycus, Sarah Hall, Barry Johnson, Mitchell Matheny, Lillie Poindexter and Carolyn Roof. The exhibition will include 2-D and 3-D works in photography, drawing, ceramics, jewelry making and small sculptures.

The class has been offered for the past five years and is designed to prepare students for their transition into emerging artists. Students learn how to prepare portfolios and exhibit their work professionally in a public venue. They also acquire other professional skills such as how to best photograph their work, safe studio practices and art marketing.

Instructor Randy Simmons said it’s always a pleasure to teach this class and see immediate benefits in the way students prepare and present themselves as artists.

“As a two-year school, where a number of our students will conclude their studies with an Associate in Fine Art degree, this class functions like a senior seminar class in a four-year college, providing career and professional development skills not covered directly in studio classes,“ said Simmons. “For artists living in the region, it allows an opportunity to enhance their professional practices and strengthen their careers.”

Visitors can see the exhibit at Maiden Alley Cinema from April 23 - July 17.

PSAD, a division of West Kentucky Community and Technical College, offers an Associate in Fine Arts degree, as well as studio art classes for students of all levels and disciplines. Classes are offered on WKCTC’s main campus, 919 Madison Street and 905 Harrison Street.

For more information, call (270) 408-4281.

PADUCAH, KY (April 19, 2016) – Cake decorating classes have been one the most popular community education offerings at West Kentucky Community and Technical College this spring, and to accommodate the overwhelming community response, WKCTC is offering two more courses beginning next month.

Back by popular demand, the Course One Building Buttercream Skills course will be offered on four consecutive Tuesday evenings May 3-24. Next will be the new Course 2 Flowers and Cake Design course on four consecutive Thursday evenings May 12 – 26 and June 2.

Both four-week courses will be offered in the Emerging Technology Center from 6 – 8 p.m. with a cost of $69 for each of the four sessions. Fee includes student kit and guide.

Certified Wilton Method Instructor Linda Mayes, who has been decorating cakes for nearly 20 years, is back to teach the both courses. Participants should bring their own apron and wear closed-toe shoes.

Course One Building Buttercream Skills
Participants can learn how to decorate cakes and sweet treats with basic buttercream techniques and six simple-to-pipe flowers that transform ordinary cakes into extraordinary results.

Lesson 1, May 3
Start with the basics and learn how to make buttercream icing, stars, rosettes, bag striping, professionally ice a cupcake and so much more. Participants will decorate their cupcakes before going home to show friends and family all they learned in class.

Lesson 2, May 10
Learn how to ice a cake and decorate with dots, pulled dots, piping gel pattern transfer and more. Participants will decorate cakes at the end of class and be amazed with the new skills they learned in only two classes.

Lesson 3, May 17
Learn different borders like zigzag, easy ruffle, shell, and bead. Create decorations like the Star Drop Flower, Swirl Drop Flower, Daisy, Sunflower and the Zinnia.

Lesson 4, May 24
Learn the technique to writing on cakes and the Ribbon Rose. Decorate cakes with the techniques learned throughout the entire course.

Note: A list of optional supplies costing approximately $40 will be provided the first night of class for this four-week course.

Course 2 Flowers and Cake Design
Participants will learn how to create professional-looking flowers and designs made from royal icing. Your Certified Wilton Method Instructor teaches you how to make lifelike rosebuds, pansies, and violets, plus detailed patterns, like lace and basket weave designs.

Lesson 1, May 12
Learn color principles to know how to pair colors together in cake design such as Cornelli Lace, Brush Embroidery and the blossom.

Lesson 2, May 19
Participants will go cover Royal Icing Appliques, Rosebud and the famous Wilton Rose.

Lesson 3, May 26
The fun continues learning to create the Pansy, Violet, Lily and Poinsettia flowers.

Lesson 4, June 2
Learn more borders and the basket weave. The course concludes with participants making and decorating in the class using all the skills learned up to this point.

Register for the cake decorating classes by calling 270-534-3335 or online at http://ws.kctcs.edu/westkentucky, select Culinary.

Paducah, KY (April 19, 2016) - West Kentucky Community and Technical College students Georgiana Roberts of Mayfield and Jansen Barrett of Benton were recently named to the 2016 All-USA Community College Academic Team. The two will be among 100 students who will be recognized at the WKCTC honors ceremony April 28 at 6 p.m. in the Clemens Fine Arts Theatre.

Roberts, WKCTC Board of Directors’ student representative, was also recently named a prestigious New Century Scholar, receiving a $2,000 scholarship during the American Association of Community Colleges Convention.

"I am humbled and honored to have been selected the All-USA Academic Team and as a New Century Scholar," said 28-year-old Roberts. "WKCTC has provided me with wonderful opportunities and the confidence for not only successfully transferring to a four-year university, but continuing that success throughout my future."

All-USA team members are selected by USA TODAY and the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. The award is presented to exceptional students at the nation's community colleges with consideration of grades, academic rigor, growth and how well the students use their education to benefit their schools and communities.

A 2006 Graves County High School graduate, Roberts postponed her college pursuits to take care of her ill father who would eventually lose his battle with Alzheimer's disease and cancer in May 2014. She returned to WKCTC in fall 2014 to fulfill a promise she made to her father to complete her college degree. Roberts, who will also receive a Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society award during the April 28 honors ceremony, will graduate in May with an associate in arts degree and plans to transfer to the University of Kentucky this fall.

"My utmost desire is to pursue and experience a career with Alzheimer's research as well as work with the individuals and families suffering from this life-altering disease," said Roberts.

Barrett, a 2012 Marshall County High School graduate, said being named to the All-USA Academic Team encourages her to continue to do her best in life. In addition to the All-USA honor, Barrett will also receive a Physical Therapist Assistant Academic Achievement Award.

Barrett graduated from WKCTC in December 2015 with an associate in applied science degree in the physical therapist assistant program, and began working at Marshall County Hospital.

"I am honored to have been selected as an All-USA Academic Team nominee. It is a true honor to have had teachers who believe in me enough to nominate me for such an award," said 22-year-old Barrett. "This nomination encourages me to continue to push to be the best I can be."

Paducah, KY (April 20, 2016) – Barrage 8 brings their high-energy spectacle to the West Kentucky Community and Technical College Clemens Fine Arts Center Tuesday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. Limited tickets available for the near sold-out show.

“Barrage 8 is a musical performance that will touch every one of your senses,” said Brian Heller, WKCTC Clemens Fine Arts Center director. “It will be impossible not to be moved by this virtuosic, high energy show, which craftily reveals a wide range of musical styles.”

With dynamic video and lighting effects, the audience can have an exhilarating connection to the music at an emotional level. The elaborately choreographed show includes whirling dancing set to infectious rhythms that can energize the crowd from start to finish.

Barrage 8 is the latest project from John Crozman, Dean Marshall and Tony Moore, the original creators of the hit show Barrage. Utilizing the same energy, panache and innovative stage performance that Barrage was known for, Barrage 8 features all the instruments in the modern string family. The "8" in the name represents a re-imagining of the string octet: five violins, viola, cello and double bass.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students and children. With a near full house, limited seats may be available by calling the CFAC Box Office at (270) 534-3212.

To find out more about the artists, visit www.barrage8.com.

PADUCAH, KY (April 22, 2016) - West Kentucky Community and Technical College’s 2016 nursing pinning ceremony will be held Saturday, May 7 at the Luther F. Carson Four Rivers Center. The ceremony begins at 11:30 a.m.

Forty-one students will cross the stage to receive their nursing pins representing the completion of the associate in applied science degree in nursing.

The pinning ceremony is a symbolic welcoming of recently graduated nurses into the nursing profession. Those who qualify to receive their pins are listed by county residence.

Ballard County
Toni Rice and Shelby Rollings

Calloway County
Amy Runyon Dunlap

Crittenden County
Jennifer Belt and LaDonna Herrin

Fulton County
Hannah Aldridge

Graves County
Shelby Glisson, Lindsey Jones, Kristie Starks and Michaela Willie

Livingston County
Kathren Hayes and Ladonna Michelle Smith

Lyon County
Autumn Deboe and Trisha Green

Marshall County
Tamra Baker, Brandie Hendrick and Kaitlyn Hunter

McCracken County
Sarah Baird, April Beavers, Kayla Boss, Ashley Brantley, Elizabeth Buscias, Michael Chestnut, Tammy Darnell, Sandra Deaton, Zachary Everhart, Linda Fouts, Lacy Halligan, Kristin Hardin, LaGreta Nicole Jones, Tiffany McFadden, Corey Miller, William Moore, Bailey Robertson, Lisa Seymour, Whitney Spink, Stacey Tippin, Jessica Townsend, Ashley Tremper, Rayanne Weber

ILLINOIS
Massac County
Zack Kester

The 2016 Commencement will follow the nursing pinning ceremony with 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. ceremonies. Over 780 WKCTC students are eligible to participate in commencement.

PADUCAH, KY (April 25, 2016) – Joel Cates was named the 2016 Teacher of the Year by students at West Kentucky Community and Technical College Monday.

Cates, an assistant professor of mathematics, was selected from among 27 faculty members who were also nominated by the college’s student body for the award. Nominees had to have an assistant professor status or above and have been a member of the WKCTC teaching faculty for the past three years.

In nominating Cates, one student said, “I’ve had several courses with Mr. Cates, and I’ve never had a math teacher more engaging in the subject. He loves his course and his students; it is evident every day in his class.”

With his first nomination, Cates, a McCracken County resident, said he felt both privileged and surprised to receive the award. “It’s a profound honor to be at WKCTC and teach among my peers, and teach these students – probably the best students in Kentucky,” said Cates. “When you get nominated, you don’t want to expect anything, but you hope and dream it might be you. And when you hear your name called, it’s validation of all that you’re doing for the students.”

Cates expressed special thanks to his wife, Kelli, the WKCTC math faculty and his church congregation and pastor for their support.

Cates joined the WKCTC faculty in 2011. He holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering physics and a master’s degree in math from Murray State University. He also serves as sponsor for the college’s math club chapter of Mu Alpha Theta and co-sponsor for the Campus Ministries student organization.

Registration for summer and fall classes at WKCTC is underway. Call 1-(855) GO-WKCTC or visit westkentucky.kctcs.edu for class offerings. Fall classes begin August 15.

Paducah, KY (April 26, 2016) – Sharpe Elementary fifth grader Cody Peterson was recognized as the winner of the recent Challenger Learning Center at Paducah’s Name the Nose Cone contest during a dedication ceremony at the center yesterday.

From more than 40 entries, Peterson’s nose cone name “Silver Phoenix” was announced as the winning entry of the March 2016 contest, which was open to area kindergarten – eighth grade students. Peterson, a Marshall County resident, had an interesting way of coming up with the name.

“I was riding home down the road with my mom, and she asked if I had come up with a name yet. I thought it would be something with the word phoenix in it; I love them,” said Peterson, who admits he didn’t know the exact meaning of the word.

“My mom looked up the word when we got home,” he said. “A phoenix is a mythological bird, which lived a long time and is reborn. That’s how I knew Silver Phoenix was it.”

The nose cone is a historical piece of space history that has been around a long time and has been reborn as a beautiful display outside the center, said CLC Director Mellisa Duncan. “Cody’s name is a perfect fit.”

The nose cone traveled into space sub-orbitally on an Atlas rocket in the mid 60s - the same type of rocket that John Glenn piloted in his historic three-orbit cycle around the Earth in 1962. Although this nose cone did not orbit the Earth, it was a test for the U.S. Air Force’s Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Program. The nose cone did not carry a missile, but instead was used to test for reentry and the best time for missile detonation.

The cone arrived in Paducah around 1967 thanks to Colonel Harry Hester, former commander of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP). The nose cone, which sat outside the former CAP building for many years disappeared until it was found and set to be sold at auction last fall. However before the auction, the Paducah Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol regained control of the cone and donated it to the CLC in October 2015.

Hester passed away in 2008, but his nephews, Rick and Mike Brewer and David Gholson, along with nearly 40 other attendees, were part of Monday’s dedication in their uncle’s memory.

Also in attendance was Major Greg Siener of the Paducah Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol who said “keeping the nose cone in Paducah at the Challenger Center is a way to keep Colonel Hester’s memory alive.”

For more information about CLC programming and upcoming summer camps, visit clcpaducah.org.

PADUCAH, KY (April 26, 2016) - A reception for the 2016 Art in Bloom Flower Show will begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 4 at the Paducah School of Art and Design's 2D and Graphic Design Building in LowerTown Paducah.

The reception will mark the opening of the unique flower show. Inspired by art and nature, the show, which is open to the public, will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, May 5 and will highlight the renovated art building while bringing awareness about gardening in western Kentucky.

The Paducah Garden Club was founded in 1913 to stimulate the love and knowledge of gardening, to aid in the protection of native plants and environment, and to encourage civic improvement. The club, with 40 active members, is one of only three garden clubs in Kentucky that is a member of the Garden Club of America. Every two years, the Paducah club sponsors a flower show with different themes.

This year’s theme – Art in Bloom – will feature local artist works, flower show exhibits as well as showcase Paducah's new 2D and Graphic Design Building at 905 Harrison Street. There is no admission.

The show is broken into three divisions. In the floral design division, Paducah Garden Club members use artwork selected by PSAD dean Paul Aho to inspire their designs in more than a dozen floral exhibits. In the horticulture division, club members display a variety of horticulture specimens in several classes. Lastly, the photography class division club members use photography to interpret and reflect four internationally known works of art.

Jane Gamble, event co-chair, said the Paducah Garden Club is excited to partner with the art school and PSAD dean Paul Aho. "This flower show is an opportunity for our members to create floral designs inspired by fifteen works of local artists, and for the community to see these creations," Gamble said. "We also will be bringing horticultural specimens from our gardens, as well as photographs with art-themed categories. I hope everyone attends this unique collaboration between the worlds of art and garden."

In addition to the exhibits, student artists from PSAD will offer for sale pots, vessels and vases along with plantings and flowers provided by the Paducah Garden Club. "For someone looking for something different for their mom, this will be the perfect chance to purchase a special Mother's Day gift," said PSAD dean Paul Aho.

All proceeds will benefit the PSAD ceramics program.

PADUCAH, KY (April 28, 2016) - West Kentucky Community and Technical College will honor more than 780 candidates for graduation during commencement ceremonies at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday, May 7 at the Luther F. Carson Four Rivers Center. There will also be a pinning ceremony held prior to commencement at 11:30 a.m. for nursing students to receive pins.

Glenn David Denton, a partner with Denton Law Firm, PLLC in Paducah, will be the keynote speaker for both commencement ceremonies. Denton practices law throughout western Kentucky and southern Illinois. He is the chair of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, the coordinating board for Kentucky’s postsecondary education system. He will serve as Council chair through January 2017.

A 1992 Centre College graduate and a 1995 graduate of Northern Kentucky University, Chase College of Law, Denton serves on the board of directors of The Paducah Bank and Trust Company, Paducah Bank Shares, Inc. and Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company of Kentucky in Louisville.

WKCTC students Corey Nance and Jake Hugenroth will be the student speakers. They were named to the 2016 KCTCS All-Academic Team, which recognizes outstanding students of community and technical colleges.

“It’s a wonderful honor to be able to represent this college and my fellow students,” said 20-year-old Nance of McCracken County. “Being selected for the KCTCS-All Academic Team shows me that all my hard work has definitely paid off. You only live once; you need to do all you can while you’re here.”

Nance, a Community Scholarship Program student who wants to become a mechanical engineer, said attending WKCTC has changed his life and made him a more mature student and man. He plans to transfer to the University of Kentucky this fall.

Jake Hugenroth has always had a passion for technology, knowing from a young age he wanted to pursue a career that involved computers. He said attending WKCTC allowed him to jumpstart his career in network administration.

“I was able to pass my certification exams for my Cisco CCNA certification on the first try thanks to what I have learned here,” said Hugenroth, a 20-year old Marshall County native. “I was also able to get two different internships thanks to my instructors and my advisor. That’s all on top of all of the knowledge I’ve gained through my courses here.”

Hugenroth works at WK&T Telecommunications in Mayfield and plans to transfer to Murray State University in the fall to work toward a bachelor’s degree and additional computer networking certifications.

Registration for summer and fall classes at WKCTC is currently underway. Call 1-(855) GO-WKCTC or visit westkentucky.kctcs.edu for class offerings. Fall classes begin August 15.

PADUCAH, KY (April 28, 2017) - (Pictured in center) Dr. Barbara Veazey receives a standing ovation after being named an honorary member of West Kentucky Community and Technical College’s Iota Eta Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society during the college’s 2016 Honor Ceremony Thursday evening.

More than 80 WKCTC students were recognized for academic excellence during the honors ceremony in the Clemens Fine Arts Theatre Thursday. After recognizing more than 20 PTK honor recipients, PTK members announced the award to Dr. Veazey, who will be retiring as WKCTC president in June. As part of the surprise honor, Dr. Veazey received a gold honors stole regalia.

Phi Theta Kappa recognizes and encourages scholarship among two-year college students. To achieve this purpose, Phi Theta Kappa provides opportunities for the development of leadership and service, for an intellectual climate for exchange of ideas and ideals, for lively fellowship for scholars, and for stimulation of interest in continuing academic excellence. PTK candidates for graduation will be identified WKCTC’s 2016 graduation ceremonies May 7 by wearing the gold regalia.

PADUCAH, KY (May 2, 2016) – West Kentucky Community and Technical College faculty members Dr. Victor Taveras and Carrie Hopper were among six employees recognized during a faculty and staff awards reception April 29.

Dr. Victor Taveras, an assistant professor of physics at WKCTC, received the Phelps Award, named in memory of Finis Sargent Phelps and Florence Grubbs Phelps that was established at the college in 1991. The purpose of this award is to emphasize quality, promote academic excellence, and reward competence in teaching in the Liberal Arts and Sciences disciplines. Dr. Taveras, a Paducah resident, joined the WKCTC faculty in 2011. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rhode Island and a doctorate degree in physics from Pennsylvania State University. He has also completed post-doctoral research at Louisiana State University.

Carrie Hopper of Paducah received the Paducah Junior College Faculty Award, which was established in 1999 and recognizes quality, competence and excellence in teaching in a technical field. The dental assisting program coordinator at WKCTC, Hopper earned an associate degree from WKCTC and a bachelor’s and master’s degree at Murray State University. She joined the college faculty in 2001. In addition to serving on several college and local committees, Hopper provides several community continuing education courses for area dental assistants and hygienists and coordinates the University of Louisville dental students on the WKCTC campus to provide dental services to children in the purchase area.

Paducah resident Jeanne Stroup received WKCTC’s Adjunct Faculty Award, recognizing the outstanding contributions and achievements of a dedicated adjunct faculty member who provides exemplary service to WKCTC students. An adjunct faculty member in the Business and Related Technologies Division, Stroup earned an associate degree at WKCTC before completed a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Murray State University.

In addition, Dr. Lisa Stephenson and Nancy Robins, both of Paducah, and Kevin O’Neill of Bardwell were recognized as WKCTC’s nominees for the Kentucky Community and Technical College System’s (KCTCS) 2016 New Horizon Awards.

Each KCTCS college nominates one administrative member, one faculty member, and one staff member for the award by their fellow college employees. One faculty member, one administrative member, and one staff member from the 48 people nominated within the KCTCS system will be chosen as the top staff and faculty representative.

O’Neill, WKCTC director of community education, was nominated in the administrative category. He manages all community and continuing education classes at college. Last year O’Neill implemented a mailing and online catalog listing all classes and camps provided by the college and the community. He coordinates with faculty, staff and community members to teach more than 75 community education offerings that bring hundreds of people to campus each spring and fall.

Nominated in the faculty category, Dr. Stephenson, K-12 Partnership director, joined the college in 1985 as a business studies instructor. Dr. Stephenson was instrumental in the successes with the West Kentucky College Academy and the Community Scholarship Program, as well as in the accreditation as the first National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP) accredited community college in Kentucky.

Nancy Robins, student affairs assistant III in WKCTC’s records department, was nominated in the staff category. Working at the college for more than 20 years, Robins not only supports WKCTC within the records office but also by volunteering for nearly every event and activity on campus. She is also an active volunteer throughout the community. Robins recently received the Ladd Mathis Award for her volunteer work with the United Way of Paducah-McCracken County - the highest form of recognition the United Way can give to an outstanding community member.

Eleven faculty and staff retirees were also recognized during the April 29 ceremony, including WKCTC President Dr. Barbara Veazey who will retire June 30 after more than 40 years of service, 14 as the founding president of WKCTC. The retirees represent over 250 years of dedication to the college and its students.

Registration for summer and fall classes at WKCTC is also underway. Call 1-(855) GO-WKCTC or visit westkentucky.kctcs.edu for class offerings. Fall classes begin August 15.

Paducah, Kentucky (May 5, 2016) – Two Paducah sisters were recently chosen as the Challenger Learning Center at Paducah’s 2016 Challenger Champions. Both young women will be honored during a reception at the center May 24 from 4-6 p.m.

The program honors outstanding individuals like Lilly and Erin Burba that have attended the program during their childhood and then gone on to support the center as they got older. Challenger Champions are also college or career oriented with an interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Both Lilly and Erin visited the Challenger Learning Center at Paducah during elementary school and later returned to help teach summer camps. They now share how those experiences helped shape them into the young women they are today.

Lilly, 19 and biology major at Indiana’s DePauw University, visited the center during her sixth grade year. She recalled being on the medical team in the Moon mission and liked the idea of working in that position.

“I knew all the mission jobs had some kind of scientific aspect to them, but from the beginning that stuck out to me as something that sounded interesting to me.”

Then in the seventh grade, Lilly discovered her passion. She wanted to become a veterinarian, and said her Challenger visit helped set her career choice in stone.

“It was my first experience...vaguely related to medicine and veterinary medicine, she said. “I had always taken science classes, enjoyed them and done well in them, but it was mostly book-work, and coming to the center allowed me to learn in a hands-on atmosphere.”

Like her sister, Erin, 18, graduated from Paducah Tilghman High School. However, she also attended the prestigious Gatton Academy on the campus of Western Kentucky University where she, again like her sister, was interested in biology. But that was before she realized she wanted to follow more in her mom’s footsteps, a computer and information technologies professor at West Kentucky Community & Technical College. Erin is now studying computer science and engineering at Northeastern University in Boston.

Erin reminisced about visiting the Challenger Center when in the fifth grade, and how the STEM disciplines now fit perfectly into her career goals.

“The visit solidified my love of science. It was so cool to see all the different jobs that are part of flying missions..... to see how everyone worked together to create the mission and how many different ways science is used to make the experiments work,” she said.

Erin’s dream job would bring her full-circle with the Challenger Center. She hopes to someday make robots for NASA and space missions like the humanoid robots currently being researched for a real mission to the Red Planet.

With the computers and software used at the Challenger Center for missions and the progress the center will make in the years to come, Erin said, “who knows I may be working with the Challenger computer systems of the future. My career is wide open at this point.”

When Lilly returned to teach summer camps, she said she was able to see another side of the center. “I learned a tons of things alongside the kids, and helping expose even the youngest children to science...is a really cool idea. Erin agreed whole-heartedly saying,” it’s amazing to see kids experimenting and understanding complex concepts.”

Lilly said “it’s also amazing to be recognized as a Challenger Champion for being just a small part in the overall greatness of the Challenger Learning Center, and “it means so much to be honored by an incredible organization that makes such a difference in STEM education,” added Erin.

A new Challenger Champion will be honored each year as the CLC’s version of a “Hall of Fame” continues to grow.

For more information about the Challenger Learning Center at Paducah located on the campus of West Kentucky Community and Technical College, visit clcpaducah.org.

Registration for summer and fall classes at WKCTC is also underway. Call 1-(855) GO-WKCTC or visit westkentucky.kctcs.edu for class offerings. Fall classes begin August 15.

Paducah, Kentucky (May 6, 2016) - West Kentucky Community and Technical College’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee and the Paducah Human Rights Commission is co-sponsoring a free evening of discussion about criminal justice May 19.

“Justice for All” will be held from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the Robert Cherry Civic Center located at 2701 West Park Drive. Doors open at 5:15 p.m.

State Representative Gerald Watkins and Mayor Gayle Kaler will join a panel of professionals in the fields of criminal justice, social work, psychology and the ministry for the evening of discussion that will include information about criminal justice reform. Individuals interested in the field of criminal justice are encouraged to attend.

The event is free and open to the public. Dinner and live entertainment will be provided. WKCTC will also provide door prizes for the evening.

For more information contact Dr. Belinda Dalton-Russell, WKCTC vice president of student development and Diversity and Inclusion Committee chair, at (270 534-3081 or belinda.dalton-russell@kctcs.edu.

Registration for summer and fall classes at WKCTC is also underway. Call 1-(855) GO-WKCTC or visit westkentucky.kctcs.edu for class offerings. Fall classes begin August 15.

Paducah, Kentucky (May 6, 2016) – West Kentucky Community and Technical College’s Seniors Learning for Fun organization will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a reception in the Emerging Technology Center May 17 at 2 p.m. All past and present Seniors Learning for Fun members are invited to attend the celebration.

“We want to celebrate with the many senior learners who have enjoyed being a part of the program over the past 20 years,” said Kevin O’Neill, WKCTC community education director. “Everyone reminiscing about the fun times they’ve shared through the hundreds of varying activities, events and field trips throughout the region will be wonderful.”

Some of the past seniors learning adventures include learning about:

·       World War II battle sites,
·       making sound financial investments and estate planning,
·       Paducah’s historic houses of worship, UNESCO Creative City designation and revitalized Coca-Cola plant,
·       cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and caring for eyes with diabetes,
·       child safety and how to help prevent child abuse and neglect,
·       how to stay connected with family and friends with Facebook,
·       strengthening exercise for balance and posture,
·       how emergency organizations protects the public, and much more!

“Anyone who is 55 years old or older can take advantage of the fun and educational opportunities we offer through the Seniors Learning for Fun” said O’Neill. “It’s our goal to provide our senior learners with unique learning experiences they will always remember and continue coming back for more fun!”

If you are 55 years old or older and would like to receive the fall 2016 Seniors Learning for Fun brochure, call 270-534-3335 to have your name added to the mailing list.

Registration for summer and fall classes at WKCTC is also underway. Call 1-(855) GO-WKCTC or visit westkentucky.kctcs.edu for class offerings. Fall classes begin August 15.

Paducah, KY (May 17, 2016) – West Kentucky Community and Technical College student Kirstin Lewis is fulfilling her lifelong passion of becoming a cosmetologist. A Caldwell County native, Lewis was recently named WKCTC’s April Student of the Month.

“This is such an honor for me,” said19-year-old Lewis. It’s amazing to have been chosen for something like this.”

When she graduated from Caldwell County High School in May 2015, Lewis enrolled at WKCTC that fall knowing it was where she belonged.

“I’d talked with several friends who had already been through the program and beauticians who highly recommended the school. I’d just heard so many great things,” said Lewis. “I love it. It’s amazing.”

Tracy McDanel, WKCTC cosmetology program coordinator, said Lewis models the kind of engaged student that teachers would love to have filling up their classrooms.

“... Kirstin is always willing to ask questions to check her understanding of her technical skills. She has frequently shown she is willing to go above and beyond in her efforts to progress.”

Now is her second semester, Lewis is set complete her associate degree at WKCTC in May 2017. In the future, she will either work in a salon or start her own business where she can “help others feel better about themselves.”

The Student of the Month program is designed to recognize the accomplishments of students on campus. Individuals selected must be currently enrolled at WKCTC and have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher and are nominated on the basis of exceptional performance, personal attributes, academic excellence and active participation in various student organizational activities.

Student of the Month recipients receive $100, a certificate of excellence, recognition on the WKCTC Facebook page, campus announcements and Web site. Recipients are also recognized by Pepsi MidAmerica and receive one free month's supply of their favorite Pepsi product.

Paducah, KY (May 19, 2016) - Dr. Barbara M. Veazey has received many cards, telephone calls and e-mails since announcing in March her plans to retired as West Kentucky Community and Technical College president on June 30, 2016.

During the college’s May 7 commencement, Dr. Veazey learned she would receive "president emeritus" status upon her retirement. The status is an honor bestowed on retiring college presidents in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System for distinguished institutional service. The honorary designation does not entitle Dr. Veazey to any salary or any other KCTCS benefit. She was nominated by WKCTC Board of Directors.

On Thursday, the Board of Trustees of Paducah Junior College, Inc., the foundation of WKCTC, announced that an open area on the second floor of the Paducah School of Arts and Design's 2D and Graphics Building has been named the Dr. Barbara M. Veazey Community Room. The area is currently an open space, but plans are underway to use the space for the study of fiber art.

Veazey who has been at the college more than 43 years, has said she plans to spend more time with her family during her retirement but also hopes to take up sheep sheering and weaving. PJC Board member Ken Wheeler presented Dr. Veazey with a shepard’s hook to during the reception.

In other matters, the PJC Board also announced its new officers during its board meeting before the reception for Dr. Veazey. The new officers are John Williams, chair; Ann Denton, vice chair; Lorraine Schramke, secretary; Mike Sims, treasurer, and B.A. Hamilton, at large.

WKCTC Community Education Offerings for Next Few Weeks

Challenger Semester Offerings

Culinary Offerings

Friday Night Science Offering

Paducah School of Art and Design Community Offerings

WKCTC Celebrates Earth Day with Free Concert and Events

Second Floral Design Class at WKCTC Begins April 28

Jessica Alexander selected as WKCTC Student of the Month

Paducah School of Art and Design Exhibits Student Artwork from Survival Skills Class

Back by Popular Demand, Cake Decorating Classes at WKCTC

Two WKCTC Students Named to the All-USA Academic Team

Barrage 8 nearly sold out at Clemens Fine Arts Center

WKCTC Nursing Students to Receive Nursing Pins May 7 at Carson Center

Joel Cates Selected WKCTC Teacher of Year

Marshall County Fifth Grader Named Winner of Challenger Learning Center’s Nose Cone Naming Contest

Flower Show in LowerTown Paducah to Highlight Gardening and Art May 4-5

WKCTC to Hold Spring 2016 Commencement May 7

Veazey Named Honorary Phi Theta Kappa Member

WKCTC Honors Faculty and Staff at Awards Reception April 29

Challenger Learning Center to Recognize Challenger Champions at Reception May 24

Evening of Discussion, Justice for All May 19

WKCTC’s Seniors Learning for Fun Celebrates 20th Anniversary May 17

Kirstin Lewis selected as WKCTC Student of the Month

PJC Foundation Board Names Art School Community Room in honor of Barbara Veazey