Heather Vandiver of Paducah has been selected as September Student of the Month at West Kentucky Community and Technical College.When Heather Vandiver began taking classes at WKCTC in fall 2012, she was uncertain of herself and the future. Two years later and recently named WKCTC Student of the Month, Vandiver has a new outlook on life.
"When I began my career at West Kentucky Community and Technical College I was timid, unsure of my future, and I didn't know a single person in Paducah," Vandiver said. "Now I can say with pride that I am very sure of my future, I am confident in my actions and work, and I have many friends whom I love. I will never forget my mentors, and the people who have helped me become the strong, independent, confident, driven woman that I am today."
Vandiver said she had a lot to celebrate in the month of September and she credits much of her success to the support of WKCTC faculty and staff.
"It is a true honor to be named Student of the Month. Not only was September the month to celebrate my birthday and my son's birthday, it was a time to celebrate the accomplishments I have made as a student at WKCTC," said 25-year-old Vandiver, whose son, Daegon, just turned seven. "It was not my own accomplishments, however, that led to this achievement. I wouldn't be in this position without the guidance and love of my professors and superiors..."
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. Winners are also recognized by Pepsi MidAmerica and receive one free month's supply of their favorite Pepsi product.
A Hopkins County Central High School graduate, Vandiver is majoring in business administration and is active on the WKCTC campus and in the community. She is a member of WKCTC's Student Government Association and SGA representative for Phi Theta Kappa and Phi Beta Lambda. Vandiver also serves as the student representative for the WKCTC Business Administration Advisory Board and is a student worker for the college's Clemens Fine Arts Center. She recently volunteered to help the American Red Cross during this year's Barbecue on the River and remains actively involved in her son's school events and activities.
In December, Vandiver will graduate with an associate in applied science degree and then plans to concurrently enroll at WKCTC and Murray State University as she works toward a bachelor's degree in business administration.
"Heather is an ideal student to represent WKCTC as Student of the Month," said Allison McGullion, WKCTC business administration program coordinator. "She is always prepared and goes above and beyond in the classroom in dealing with her fellow classmates as well as in her own coursework. She constantly demonstrates a high level of leadership and is an example for others to follow."